Brian Setzer
Brian Setzer
================
Full Name and Common Aliases
---------------------------------
Brian Setzer is an American musician, singer, songwriter, record producer, and bandleader of the Stray Cats. His stage name and professional moniker are synonymous with rockabilly revival and swing revival.
Birth and Death Dates
-------------------------
Born on April 17, 1959, in Massapequa, New York, Setzer is still active in his music career.
Nationality and Profession(s)
---------------------------------
Nationality: American
Professions: Musician, singer, songwriter, record producer, bandleader
Early Life and Background
------------------------------
Growing up in a musical family on Long Island, New York, Setzer developed an interest in music at a young age. He was exposed to various genres such as rock 'n' roll, jazz, and swing through his parents' vinyl collection. This eclectic mix of influences would later shape the sound of the Stray Cats and his solo work.
As a teenager, Setzer formed his first band, playing gigs around Long Island. After high school, he continued to hone his craft, developing a unique blend of rockabilly, swing, and pop that set him apart from other musicians.
Major Accomplishments
-------------------------
Formed the Stray Cats in 1979 with guitarist Jimmie Lee Allen and bassist Lee Rocker.
Released their debut single "Rock This Town" in 1981, which became a hit and launched the rockabilly revival of the early 1980s.
The Stray Cats' self-titled debut album was certified gold by the RIAA in 1982.
Setzer's work with the Stray Cats earned him three Grammy nominations for Best New Artist, Record of the Year, and Album of the Year.
Notable Works or Actions
-----------------------------
In addition to his work with the Stray Cats, Setzer has released several solo albums, including "The Rooster" (1994) and "Guitar Slinger" (2001). He has also collaborated with other artists such as Carl Perkins and Tony Lewis of The Outlaws.
Setzer's influence extends beyond music. In 2010, he appeared in the Broadway musical "Rock of Ages," playing the role of Dennis DuBois, a 1950s-style rock star. His stage presence and charisma have made him a sought-after performer for various events and festivals.
Impact and Legacy
------------------------
Brian Setzer's impact on music is undeniable. He has been credited with reviving interest in rockabilly and swing genres, inspiring a new generation of musicians to explore these styles. The Stray Cats' unique sound and style have influenced artists such as the Brian Setzer Orchestra and other swing revival bands.
Setzer's contributions extend beyond his own music. As a performer, he has helped keep vintage styles alive through his energetic live shows and authenticity. His work with the Brian Setzer Orchestra has also brought big band music to new audiences.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
---------------------------------------------
Brian Setzer is widely quoted and remembered for his contributions to rockabilly revival, swing revival, and his influence on contemporary musicians. As a bandleader and performer, he continues to inspire fans with his energy, charisma, and musical talent. His legacy serves as a reminder of the power of music to revive styles and bring people together through shared passion and appreciation.
Quotes by Brian Setzer
Veteran performers are dying off, and new acts simply aren’t emerging on the national scene.
Since the big band started I’m just always swamped with movies and things. It certainly pays the bills and it’s very satisfying, because I get to write all these big charts and all this crazy music.
I wanted to go back to Sun. Unfortunately, most of the gear is gone from Sun. The way I take it now, it’s almost like a tourist destination. So, it would have been pretty difficult to have brought all the gear into Sun to make it like it was in the ’50’s.
I didn’t want to take the guitar solos down note-for-note, but more or less use them as a map, and keep all the hooks from the guitar playing, and let myself come through.
Mark Winchester has left the band. He’s decided that he’s tired of the road and just wants to concentrate on his career in Nashville. I don’t blame him at all. He’ll certainly be missed.
I can’t tell you how many people have asked me to show them Stray Cat Strut and that little diminished run on the C. I guess my brain is wired backwards. I don’t know what possessed me to do that, but I did.
It’s not about how loud you turn the amp up. That’s not what makes it sound big. What makes it sound big is fooling around with different delays and reverb settings.
I basically sat down for a month, with all the Sun stuff I could find and just picked out my favorites. I didn’t think that they were indicative of ’54 to ’57, although I tried to stay within that period.