"Stray Cat Strut" by Stray...

"Stray Cat Strut" by the Stray Cats, a 1982 US hit, is the epitome of cool. With its slinky bassline, smooth vocals, and Brian Setzer's iconic guitar, this rock and roll anthem captures a timeless swagger. It’s a suave declaration of independence that still resonates with effortless style.

This signature track from the Stray Cats, prominently featured on their 1982 US debut album "Built for Speed," perfectly blended rock and roll with their definitive rockabilly sound. The song's laid-back rhythm, jazzy undertones, and Setzer's clean, twangy guitar licks defined their unique musical identity. "Stray Cat Strut" became a massive hit, showcasing the band's ability to revitalize vintage American music genres for a new generation.

More than just a rock and roll tune, "Stray Cat Strut" is a cornerstone of the rockabilly revival movement of the early 1980s. The Stray Cats—Brian Setzer, Lee Rocker, and Slim Jim Phantom—brought an authentic and energetic interpretation of the style to the forefront of popular music. The song's success, fueled by its distinctive sound and an iconic MTV music video, cemented its place as an enduring classic.

SONG MEANING: "Stray Cat Strut" is an autobiographical anthem reflecting the band's early, lean days and their defiant, cool-cat persona. It's about maintaining style and swagger ("cat class and I got cat style") even when faced with adversity, like being broke or getting "dinner from a garbage can." The song celebrates a carefree, independent, and somewhat rebellious spirit, embodying the essence of a "stray cat" confidently navigating the urban landscape.