Brian Setzer, American singer-songwriter and guitarist

Brian Robert Setzer, born on April 10, 1959, is a highly influential American musician widely recognized for his exceptional prowess as a guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter. Throughout his distinguished career, Setzer has masterfully traversed and revitalized multiple musical genres, leaving an indelible mark on both rockabilly and swing music.

The Birth of Neo-Rockabilly: Stray Cats

Setzer first burst onto the global music scene in the early 1980s as the charismatic frontman of the Stray Cats. Alongside his bandmates Lee Rocker (upright bass) and Slim Jim Phantom (drums), Setzer ignited a resurgence of 1950s-style rockabilly, giving it a fresh, energetic twist that came to be known as neo-rockabilly. Their distinctive sound, characterized by Setzer's virtuoso Gretsch guitar playing, the driving slap-bass, and minimalist drumming, captivated audiences. Hits like "Rock This Town," "Stray Cat Strut," and "Runaway Boys" propelled them to widespread success, particularly in the UK and Europe before gaining significant traction in their native America. The Stray Cats not only brought a classic American musical style to a new generation but also influenced fashion and culture with their iconic greased-back hair and vintage aesthetics.

From Rockabilly King to Swing Revivalist

Following the initial success and subsequent hiatus of the Stray Cats, Setzer continued to explore his musical interests, which remained deeply rooted in classic American sounds. In 1987, his affinity for the roots of rock and roll was further highlighted when he made a notable cameo appearance as the legendary rockabilly pioneer Eddie Cochran in the critically acclaimed film La Bamba, a biopic chronicling the life of Ritchie Valens. This role was a natural fit, showcasing Setzer's authentic connection to the genre's history and its iconic figures.

The early 1990s marked a significant revitalization in Setzer's career with the formation of the Brian Setzer Orchestra (BSO). This ambitious big band project saw Setzer blend his signature rockabilly guitar style and vocal delivery with the lush arrangements of a full 17-piece swing orchestra. The BSO became a pivotal force in the burgeoning swing revival movement of the era, introducing a sophisticated yet high-energy sound to mainstream audiences. Their albums, such as The Dirty Boogie, featured popular hits like "Jump Jive an' Wail" (a cover of Louis Prima's classic) and original compositions that earned them multiple Grammy Awards. The Orchestra's dynamic live performances and innovative fusion of rock and swing cemented Setzer's reputation as a genre-bending innovator.

Legacy and Influence

Brian Setzer's career is a testament to his unwavering dedication to American roots music. From his pioneering work with the Stray Cats, which brought rockabilly back into the spotlight, to his acclaimed leadership of the Brian Setzer Orchestra, which redefined big band swing for a contemporary audience, his contributions are profound. His distinctive guitar technique, often featuring a blend of rockabilly licks, jazz chords, and bluesy bends, has inspired countless musicians, making him a true icon in the world of guitarists and an enduring figure in popular music history.

Frequently Asked Questions About Brian Setzer

Q: What musical genres is Brian Setzer primarily known for?
A: Brian Setzer is predominantly known for his significant contributions to rockabilly music, especially with the Stray Cats, and for leading the swing revival movement with the Brian Setzer Orchestra.
Q: What was the Stray Cats' biggest hit?
A: The Stray Cats had several major hits, including "Rock This Town," "Stray Cat Strut," and "Runaway Boys," which brought them international fame in the early 1980s.
Q: How did Brian Setzer contribute to the swing revival?
A: Brian Setzer formed the Brian Setzer Orchestra (BSO) in the early 1990s, blending his rockabilly roots with a full big band sound. The BSO released successful albums and popular songs like "Jump Jive an' Wail," becoming a leading act in the swing revival movement.
Q: Did Brian Setzer act in any films?
A: Yes, Brian Setzer made a notable cameo appearance as legendary rockabilly musician Eddie Cochran in the 1987 film La Bamba, which told the story of Ritchie Valens.
Q: What kind of guitar is Brian Setzer famous for playing?
A: Brian Setzer is iconic for his use of Gretsch guitars, particularly various hollow-body models, which are central to his distinctive rockabilly and swing sound.