Ram Jam was an American rock band formed in New York City in 1977, predominantly known for their hit single "Black Betty".The band consisted of Bill Bartlett (guitar and lead vocals) born 1946, South Harrow, London, U.K. ], Howie Arthur Blauvelt (bass), Pete Charles (drums), and Myke Scavone (lead vocals). Jimmy Santoro, who toured with the band in support of their debut album, joined on guitar for the follow-up album. Bartlett was formerly lead guitarist for bubblegum group The Lemon Pipers, while Blauvelt played with Billy Joel in several bands: the Echoes (also renamed the Lost Souls and then the Commandos), The Hassles and El Primo. The band was originally known as 'Creekside Killshack'.