A Silent Strum: Brian Setzer's Battle Halts the Stray Cats' Ride

You know, some news just hits a little differently. And for fans of raw, unadulterated rockabilly, this week brought a genuine pang: the iconic Stray Cats have officially called off all their remaining 2023 tour dates. It wasn’t a matter of scheduling conflicts or unforeseen logistical tangles, mind you, but something far more personal and, frankly, agonizing for frontman Brian Setzer.

The announcement, delivered with a palpable sense of regret from the band’s official channels, revealed the difficult truth. Setzer himself, a true legend of the guitar, has been wrestling with a particularly brutal bout of tinnitus. And when we say brutal, well, his own words paint a stark, unvarnished picture of what he’s been enduring.

“It’s gotten to the point where I can’t even get on an airplane or sit in a car without extreme pain,” Setzer shared, his candor resonating deeply. Imagine, for a moment, being a musician — a vibrant, electrifying performer who lives for the stage and the roar of the crowd — only to find basic travel, a prerequisite for any tour, becoming a source of unbearable agony. He went on to explain the disheartening reality: “I’ve been to a dozen doctors and it’s a permanent condition with no cure.” Honestly, that kind of news can really knock the wind out of you. And so, with a heavy heart, the choice became clear: “I have to put my health first.”

It’s a decision no artist ever wants to make, especially when the road beckons and eager audiences await. But sometimes, life simply demands that you hit pause, that you prioritize well-being over the relentless rhythm of touring. The band echoed this sentiment, stating quite plainly, “We are truly sorry to deliver bad news but due to Brian Setzer’s extreme tinnitus, the Stray Cats are forced to cancel all remaining dates for 2023.” For those who had tickets in hand, a refund will be issued at the point of purchase, which, while practical, doesn’t quite soothe the sting of a missed show.

The cancellation impacts several anticipated performances, including two upcoming California stops — one in Temecula on July 20th and another in Costa Mesa on July 22nd. Beyond American shores, European fans were also looking forward to seeing the trio, with dates scheduled from August 2nd to 5th across Germany and Sweden now off the table.

Formed way back in 1979, the Stray Cats — Setzer, Lee Rocker, and Slim Jim Phantom — injected a much-needed shot of rockabilly revivalism into the music scene. Their iconic hits like “Rock This Town” and “Stray Cat Strut” weren’t just songs; they were anthems, dripping with retro cool and undeniable swagger. They’ve disbanded and reunited a few times over the decades, always returning with that same magnetic energy, even celebrating their 40th anniversary with the release of 40 in 2019. This isn't just about canceled shows; it’s about a momentary halt for a band that has consistently defied expectations and inspired generations.

And so, while the stage lights dim prematurely for the Stray Cats this year, the hope, undoubtedly, is that Setzer finds some peace and relief from his relentless struggle. Because in the end, the music, the legacy, it all flows from the artists themselves. And their well-being? Well, that truly comes first.