Stray Cats

The Stray Cats, an iconic American band, exploded onto the music scene with their unique Gretsch guitar-driven sound and retro-cool image. Spearheaded by Brian Setzer, Lee Rocker, and Slim Jim Phantom, they single-handedly revived rockabilly for a new generation, blending it with a punk rock energy that captivated audiences globally.

Formed in 1979, the Stray Cats experienced several periods of activity, including their initial breakthrough from 1979–1984, and subsequent reunions like 1986–1993, 2004–2009, and again from 2018 onwards. Their most impactful period in the United States was marked by releases in 1982 and 1983, which solidified their signature fusion of rockabilly and rock and roll. These years saw the band achieve mainstream success, with their music defining a distinct era of early 80s style and sound, influencing countless musicians and bringing a classic American genre roaring back into the spotlight with undeniable flair.

Their chart-topping legacy is built on infectious anthems that remain popular decades later. Timeless tracks like the cool and slinky "Stray Cat Strut," the electrifying "Rock This Town," and the provocative "(She's) Sexy + 17" are quintessential examples of their hit-making prowess. These songs not only dominated airwaves but also became defining cultural touchstones, instantly recognizable for their driving rhythms, memorable melodies, and the sheer rebellious joy that the Stray Cats brought to their performances, cementing their status as legends of the rockabilly and rock and roll genres.