Brian Setzer Overcomes Health Issues. Stray Cats Plot New Tour

One of the greatest guitar players in American history had us all spooked earlier this year when Brian Setzer let the public know he’d lost the ability to play guitar. On February 13th, the rockabilly legend told fans,

“Towards the end of the last Stray Cats tour I noticed that my hands were cramping up. I’ve since discovered that I have an auto-immune disease. I cannot play guitar. There is no pain, but it feels like I am wearing a pair of gloves when I try to play.”

Setzer went on to say, “I have seen some progress in that I can hold a pen and tie my shoes. I know this sounds ridiculous, but I was at a point where I couldn’t even do that. 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. I love you all, Brian.”

This was one of the reasons no tour dates were posted for the first part of 2025, either for Setzer solo, with his legendary band the Strays Cats, or with the Brian Setzer Orchestra.

But there is good news. In March, Setzer shared that he was making significant progress.

“I just want to let you all know that I’m getting better day by day. The progress I’m making is excellent! My dream is to visit Japan, the States, and Europe with Stray Cats, and of course, one of my biggest thrills would be bringing back the BSO Christmas show tradition. Thank you all for your love and support—it truly means the world to me. I was deeply touched. I love you guys, and only we can truly understand what this sound means to us!”

Then on April 4th, Setzer shared another positive update. “Hey Everybody! I sat down and actually played guitar last night. I played Rumble in Brighton and it sounded pretty good! I thought, let’s push it a bit, and I played Too Hip Gotta Go. It also sounded pretty good. I could play the thing again, not as well as I’d like, but not bad either.”

Now Brian Setzer has improved to the point where he’s confident enough to book a brand new tour with the Stray Cats this fall. Joined by upright bassist Lee Rocker, and drummer Slim Jim Phantom, they’ll be playing 21 dates across the United States this fall. These will be the first dates since the band’s summer tour in 2024.

Tickets are available now at straycats.com.