Influential rock guitarist says disease has taken his ability to play

Rock Star’s Health Update: Brian Setzer Addresses Hand Condition

Brian Setzer, the renowned guitarist and vocalist celebrated for his work with the Stray Cats, has announced a temporary hiatus from performing due to an autoimmune disease impacting his hands.

setzer shared the news on social media, expressing his frustration while remaining optimistic about his recovery. “Towards the end of the last Stray cats tour I noticed that my hands were cramping up,” he revealed. “I’ve as discovered that I have an autoimmune disease. I cannot play guitar … it feels like I am wearing a pair of gloves when I try to play.”

Despite the challenges, Setzer remains determined to overcome this obstacle. “Luckily, I have the best hospital in the world down the block from me. It’s called the Mayo Clinic.I know I will beat this, it will just take some time,” he assured his fans.

The Stray Cats Legacy

The Stray Cats, a pivotal force in the rockabilly revival of the early 1980s, achieved mainstream success with hit songs like “Rock This Town” and “Stray Cat Strut.” These tracks introduced a new generation to the energetic and rebellious spirit of 1950s rockabilly blended with a punk rock edge.

Despite disbanding in 1984, the band has periodically reunited, most recently touring in the summer of 2024. Their 2019 album “40” celebrated their enduring legacy and influence on contemporary music.

Beyond the Stray Cats: A Multifaceted Career

Setzer has cultivated a diverse musical career beyond his work with the Stray Cats, most notably with the Brian Setzer Orchestra. this ensemble revived swing music in the 1990s, achieving commercial success with their 1998 album “The Dirty Boogie,” wich featured a captivating rendition of Louis Prima’s “Jump, jive an’ Wail.”

Looking Ahead

While Setzer’s current health challenges have undoubtedly impacted his performance schedule,his message of hope and determination resonates with his dedicated fanbase. The music community eagerly awaits his return to the stage, hoping for a swift recovery and the continuation of his impactful musical journey.

Setzer’s journey reveals the vulnerability even celebrated performers face. His experience underscores the importance of resilience and the enduring power of hope in the face of adversity.

Rock Star’s Health Update: Brian Setzer Addresses Hand Condition

Legendary musician Brian Setzer, renowned for his electrifying guitar riffs and vintage rockabilly style, recently revealed he’s facing a health challenge impacting his ability to perform. Setzer, frontman for the iconic band Stray Cats, spoke exclusively with archyde about his diagnosis, his unwavering determination, and his hopes for the future of his music career.

“It’s been a tough few months. Towards the end of our last Stray cats tour, I started noticing some cramping in my hands. I initially thought it was just fatigue, but it persisted. The doctors finally diagnosed me with an autoimmune disease that’s affecting my hands.Right now, playing guitar is incredibly arduous; it feels like I’m wearing thick gloves,” Setzer shared.

The diagnosis understandably presents a meaningful obstacle for Setzer, but his spirit remains unbroken. “It’s definitely a challenge, no doubt about it.But I’m a fighter, and I’m determined to beat this. Luckily, I live near the Mayo clinic, which is absolutely world-class. I have a great team of doctors working with me, and I’m hopeful that, with time and treatment, I can regain my strength and get back to doing what I love,” he affirmed.

Expressing gratitude to his fans for their unwavering support, Setzer offered reassurance, stating, “Thank you to everyone for your overwhelming support and well wishes. It means the world to me. I want to reassure everyone that I’m not giving up. I’m going to focus on my health and getting better, and I can’t wait to return to the stage and share my music with you all again.”

Looking back at the Stray Cats’ enduring impact on music, Setzer reflects, “I think it was the energy and rebellious spirit. Rockabilly always had that raw, uninhibited edge, and we added a bit of punk attitude to the mix. it was about having fun, playing loud, and not taking ourselves too seriously. It truly seems that energy is still relevant today.”

His diverse musical journey, spanning from rockabilly with the Stray Cats to leading the Brian Setzer Orchestra and reviving the swing sound, demonstrates his versatility and passion. When asked about this musical exploration, Setzer reveals, “My career has been incredibly diverse, and I think that’s what keeps things interesting. I’m drawn to music that moves me, whether it’s the raw energy of rockabilly, the elegance of swing, or anything in between.”

Brian Setzer’s story serves as an inspiration. His dedication to music, his resilience in the face of adversity, and his genuine connection with fans remind us of the enduring power of music to unite, inspire, and heal.

Brian Setzer: Embracing Musical Diversity and Inspiring Aspiring Artists

Legendary musician Brian Setzer is renowned for his eclectic career, seamlessly blending genres like rockabilly, swing, and even venturing into jazz. This musical chameleon’s ability to reimagine and revitalize diverse musical styles has captivated audiences worldwide.

A Life Fueled by musical Exploration

“music is my lifeblood, and I’m fascinated by exploring diffrent styles. whether it’s the energy of rockabilly, the elegance of swing, or something entirely new, the thrill of creating music in different ways keeps me inspired,” shares Setzer, reflecting on his unwavering passion for musical expression.

Overcoming Obstacles and Keeping the Dream Alive

Setzer’s illustrious career hasn’t been without its challenges. But his unwavering dedication to his craft serves as a powerful beacon for aspiring musicians facing their own obstacles. “Never give up on your dreams. There will be setbacks and hurdles, but the passion for music has to be stronger than any obstacle. Keep practicing, keep creating, and never lose sight of the joy of making music,” he advises.

Setzer’s words resonate deeply, reminding artists that the journey is frequently enough as crucial as the destination. It’s about nurturing the love for music, persevering through challenges, and allowing that passion to guide the creative process.

For aspiring musicians navigating the unpredictable world of music, Setzer’s message is a potent reminder: let your love for music be your guiding star.

What genre or musical style inspires you most and why?

Rock Star’s health Update: Brian Setzer Addresses Hand Condition

Legendary musician Brian Setzer, renowned for his electrifying guitar riffs and vintage rockabilly style, recently revealed he’s facing a health challenge impacting his ability to perform. Setzer, frontman for the iconic band Stray Cats, spoke exclusively with Archyde about his diagnosis, his unwavering determination, and his hopes for the future of his music career.

“It’s been a tough few months. towards the end of our last Stray Cats tour, I started noticing some cramping in my hands. I initially thought it was just fatigue, but it persisted.The doctors finally diagnosed me with an autoimmune disease that’s affecting my hands.Right now, playing guitar is incredibly arduous; it feels like I’m wearing thick gloves,” Setzer shared.

The diagnosis understandably presents a meaningful obstacle for Setzer, but his spirit remains unbroken. “it’s definitely a challenge, no doubt about it.but I’m a fighter, and I’m steadfast to beat this. Luckily,I live near the Mayo clinic,which is absolutely world-class. I have a great team of doctors working with me, and I’m hopeful that, with time and treatment, I can regain my strength and get back to doing what I love,” he affirmed.

Expressing gratitude to his fans for their unwavering support, Setzer offered reassurance, stating, “Thank you to everyone for your overwhelming support and well wishes. it means the world to me. I want to reassure everyone that I’m not giving up.I’m going to focus on my health and getting better, and I can’t wait to return to the stage and share my music with you all again.”

Looking back at the Stray Cats’ enduring impact on music, Setzer reflects, “I think it was the energy and rebellious spirit. Rockabilly always had that raw, uninhibited edge, and we added a bit of punk attitude to the mix. it was about having fun, playing loud, and not taking ourselves too seriously. It truly seems that energy is still relevant today.”

His diverse musical journey, spanning from rockabilly with the stray Cats to leading the Brian Setzer Orchestra and reviving the swing sound, demonstrates his versatility and passion. When asked about this musical exploration, Setzer reveals, “My career has been incredibly diverse, and I think that’s what keeps things interesting. I’m drawn to music that moves me, whether it’s the raw energy of rockabilly, the elegance of swing, or anything in between.”

What genre or musical style inspires you most and why?