Rockabilly Rebels Who Revived a Classic Sound
The Stray Cats, an American rockabilly band formed in 1979, brought a modern edge to the classic 1950s rock ‘n’ roll sound. Led by Brian Setzer on guitar and vocals, with Lee Rocker on bass and Slim Jim Phantom on drums, the trio revived rockabilly with a rebellious spirit and infectious energy.
Their breakthrough came in the early 1980s with hits like Stray Cat Strut and Rock This Town, blending slick guitar riffs, upright bass slaps, and pounding drumbeats. With their retro style, pompadours, and leather jackets, they carved out a unique niche in the era of new wave and MTV.
Though they disbanded and reunited several times, their impact on rockabilly revival remains undeniable, influencing countless artists and keeping the genre alive for new generations.
Get ready to strut through the best of the Stray Cats with this greatest hits playlist, packed with rockabilly classics that still shake, rattle, and roll! Listen uninterrupted use ☰ to select track
The Stray Cats’ 1983 concert at Loreley captured the band at their peak, delivering a high-energy rockabilly performance with slick guitar work, driving bass, and infectious rhythms that had the crowd roaring. ↪ Watch Full Concert Uninterrupted