Brian Setzer

The Life, Music, Gear

Brian Setzer, born April 10, 1959, in Massapequa, New York, is a pioneering force in the rockabilly and swing revival. Known for his work with the Stray Cats and the Brian Setzer Orchestra, Setzer has brought a modern twist to classic genres, blending them with his unique style and energy. His guitar work is characterized by its crisp, clean tones and intricate fingerpicking, making him a standout in the music world.

Timeline

Famous Songs

• Rock This Town

• Stray Cat Strut

• Jump, Jive an' Wail

• Sleep Walk

• Sexy + 17

Equipment & Gear List

• Gretsch 6120

• Fender Bassman Amplifiers

• Roland RE-301 Chorus Echo

• Boss DM-3 Delay

• Nocturne Brain Pedals

Awards & Achievements

• Grammy Award for Best Pop Instrumental Performance (1998)

• Grammy Award for Best Pop Instrumental Performance (1999)

• Grammy Award for Best Pop Instrumental Performance (2000)

• Orville H. Gibson Lifetime Achievement Award (2000)

Early Life and First Guitars

Growing up in Massapequa, New York, Brian Setzer was drawn to the sounds of rockabilly and swing from an early age. His first guitar was a cheap acoustic, but he quickly moved on to electric guitars, inspired by the likes of Eddie Cochran and Gene Vincent. Setzer honed his skills in local bands before forming the Stray Cats, which would catapult him to fame.

Reviving Swing and Rockabilly

In the 1980s, Setzer and the Stray Cats brought rockabilly back to the forefront of popular music with their energetic performances and catchy tunes. In the 1990s, Setzer expanded his musical horizons by forming the Brian Setzer Orchestra, a big band that fused swing and rockabilly, leading to a resurgence of interest in swing music.

Playing Style Breakdown

• Fingerpicking Mastery: Combines intricate fingerpicking with rockabilly rhythms.
• Hybrid Picking: Uses a pick and fingers for a fuller sound.
• Vintage Tone: Achieves a classic sound with modern precision.
• Dynamic Performances: Known for high-energy, engaging live shows.

Personal Life and Influences

Brian Setzer's personal life has been as dynamic as his music. He has been married three times and has children. His influences range from rockabilly legends like Eddie Cochran to jazz greats like Benny Goodman. Setzer's ability to blend these influences into his own unique style has made him a beloved figure in the music world.

Legacy and Impact

Essential Listening Starter Pack

Closing Thoughts

Brian Setzer's contributions to music are undeniable. His ability to blend genres and create a sound that is both nostalgic and fresh has cemented his place in music history. Whether with the Stray Cats or the Brian Setzer Orchestra, his music continues to inspire and entertain audiences around the world.