Chokeslam formed in 1997. The lineup consisted of Cris Kines and El Jefe' on Guitars,
Jody Swygert on Bass, Tim Gray on Drums, and Troy Gray on Vocals.
Due to conflicting work schedules, Jody left to join Pistol Whip. Tim, Troy, Cris, and Jefe'
kept the core together and moved on with Chokeslam with El Jefe' filling in on Bass.

In 1999, Chokeslam released their first EP entitled The Killer at
Richie Norton's Digital Underground in Chattanooga, TN. Chattanooga radio immediately put
Chokeslam on the air with tunes such as "180 Grit" and "I'm Gonna Be Your Killer".
Chokeslam started building a huge following in Chattanooga and throughout Tennessee.

By the year 2000, due to more conflict in work schedules, Chokeslam
restructured with El Jefe' on Guitar where he belongs and Adam Evitt on Bass.
Chokeslam then recorded their first full- length album entitled Chokeslam with Richie Norton.
Chokeslam was released in May 2001. Once again, Chattanooga and surrounding areas radio
immediately started playing Chokeslam. Fans have created anthems from songs such as
"Atom Bomb" and "CS 420".

Shortly after the release, Chokeslam had some conflicts of interest.
Adam Evitt was replaced with Frank Robinson- Bass extra ordinaire and long time friend.
Thus, giving Chokeslam what is their most powerful team of friends, musicians, and writers to date.
Chokeslam hit the road in support of their new album with great response including Milwaukee Metalfest XVI.

While honing their skills on the road, Chokeslam continued to give 100% effort to please
Chokeslam fans. Chokeslam's fan base grows steadily month after month.

Long time Chokeslam fan and friend: DVM Production King- Jon "Chapman" Phillips
shot the video for "Cold Throat Magician" at The Bay in 2002.
It was constantly voted #1 video on FUELTV.