The Interview Where Brian Setzer Said, “We’Re Not Copying The ‘50S — We’Re Continuing It”

April 1, 2025

The sun hung low in the sky as Brian Setzer stepped into the bright, bustling café filled with the aroma of fresh coffee and the sound of casual chatter. It was the mid-1980s, and Brian was a vibrant, young rockabilly guitarist, ready to share his passion for music with the world. He could feel the excitement bubbling inside him as he prepared for an interview that would reveal more than just his thoughts about music. It would be a moment of clarity, a chance to explain what he truly believed about the unique blend of sounds he and his band were creating.

As he took a seat across from the interviewer, Brian’s heart raced. This was a pivotal time in his life; rock and roll was undergoing a transformation. Many people thought the music of the 1950s was just a thing of the past, easily dismissed as an old fad. But Brian, with his slicked-back hair and vintage guitar, was determined to show that those sounds were not just a memory. During the conversation, he looked straight into the interviewer’s eyes and said passionately, “We’re not copying the ‘50s — we’re continuing it.” Those words resonated not only with the interviewer, but also with anyone who heard them later. It was a declaration of authenticity and creativity that would define his career.

For Brian, music was more than just a series of notes; it was a living, breathing art form. He had always admired the greats like Elvis Presley and Chuck Berry, but he didn’t want to simply recreate what they had already done. Instead, he saw himself as a bridge between the past and the present. He wanted to keep that vibrant spirit of the ’50s alive, reimagining it for a new generation. Brian poured his heart into every song he played with his band, The Stray Cats, blending rockabilly with punk and pop influences. His energy was infectious, and before long, audiences everywhere were tapping their feet and dancing to the beat of a sound that felt refreshingly alive.

That interview marked a turning point for Brian and The Stray Cats. Their music exploded in popularity, and soon, they were performing at sold-out shows around the world. Brian’s words had sparked a movement, inspiring countless young musicians to embrace retro sounds while adding their own unique twist. The band’s success was not just about fame; it was about reconnecting with a spirit of fun and rebellion that resonated deeply with fans. People of all ages flocked to their concerts, eager to experience the nostalgia and excitement that Brian had ignited.

As the years passed, Brian’s message never faded. He continued to evolve, embracing new musical styles while always honoring the roots that inspired him. His career was filled with highs and lows, but his commitment to continuing the music he loved never wavered. He became a symbol of resilience in the music industry, proving that passion can persevere through challenges. Brian Setzer’s journey from a young dreamer to a celebrated musician showed that it’s possible to pay homage to the past while boldly forging ahead into the future.

Looking back, Brian often reflects on that pivotal interview and the profound impact of those simple yet powerful words. They encapsulated a way of thinking that has guided him throughout his life. He realized that music is a continuum, a vast tapestry woven from the threads of history. With every strum of his guitar, Brian Setzer continues to honor those who paved the way for him, while inspiring new generations to find their own voices and keep the spirit of rock and roll alive.