Why Setzer Always Used Flatwound Strings

April 1, 2025

Setzer was known in his small town for his wild hair and even wilder guitar solos. He spent countless hours locked away in his garage, surrounded by old records and posters of rock legends. Although he had an impressive collection of instruments, there was one thing that set his music apart: his choice of flatwound strings. It was a seemingly small detail, but for Setzer, it represented a profound connection to his passion, a lifeline that perhaps only he understood.

His journey with music wasn’t always smooth. When he was a teenager, the world felt heavy on his shoulders. His parents had split, and school became a daily struggle filled with doubts and insecurities. But when he picked up his guitar, the pain faded, even if only for a moment. One day, while rummaging through an old music store, he stumbled upon a dusty box filled with flatwound strings. Intrigued, he bought a set, not knowing that this would change everything for him.

As he strung his guitar with those flatwound strings, he felt an instant connection. The sound was smooth and warm, with a richness that made every note come alive. It was like finding the missing piece of a puzzle he didn’t know he was trying to solve. The deep, mellow tones resonated with him, allowing his emotions to pour out through each solo. It didn’t take long for his friends to notice the transformation; Setzer’s music became more expressive, more heartfelt, and he started to gain confidence. He found that flatwound strings gave him a unique sound that made his guitar sing in a way he never thought possible.

As he continued to perform, word spread about the kid with the wild hair and the soulful guitar. He began to attract attention, and it wasn’t long before he got his first big break—an invitation to play at the local music festival. The nerves crept in as the day approached, but he reminded himself of the flatwound strings that had become his comfort. They were a reminder of the countless hours he had poured into his music, the obstacles he had overcome, and the passion that burned within him.

On the day of the festival, standing on that stage with the bright lights shining down, Setzer felt a mix of excitement and fear. But as he struck the first chord of his favorite song, the sound of the flatwound strings filled the air, and he let the music take over. People swayed to the rhythmic beat, and for a moment, Setzer forgot about everything else. It was just him and the music, transcending all the struggles he had faced. That performance marked the beginning of his journey toward becoming a musician everyone would remember.

Setzer learned that the strings he chose were more than just a preference; they were a symbol of his resilience and passion for music. Whether it was in a small garage or on a big stage, the flatwound strings had become his trusty companions, carrying the weight of his emotions and dreams. In the end, it wasn’t just about the sound they produced—it was about the journey they represented: a journey of healing, discovery, and the unwavering belief that music could change everything.