Stray Cats And The Bar Fight They Stopped Just By Launching Into Ubangi Stomp

April 3, 2025

On a chilly Friday night, the bar known as the Rusty Nail bustled with the hum of laughter and the clinking of glasses. Inside, a crowd of rough-and-tumble regulars gathered to unwind after a long week. The air was thick with the scent of spilled beer and fried food. Across the dimly lit room, a band called the Stray Cats prepared to take the stage. They were known for their unique blend of rockabilly and punk, their energetic performances drawing in fans from near and far. But that night, the mood was shifting, and the atmosphere felt charged, like the calm before a storm.

As the band started their first number, the iconic opening notes of “Ubangi Stomp” echoed through the bar, bursting forth with a contagious rhythm. The lead guitarist, Brian Setzer, unleashed his wild energy, and suddenly, the crowd’s tension began to dissolve. But just as the music peaked, two bar patrons erupted into a heated argument. Fists were clenched, and angry shouts drowned out the lively beat. It felt like a moment hanging in the balance, teetering on the edge of chaos. The owner of the Rusty Nail looked on, her heart racing as she feared a full-blown bar fight would break out.

Then something remarkable happened. As the Stray Cats played on, they instinctively shifted their performance into a raucous rendition of “Ubangi Stomp,” pouring every ounce of passion into the song. The upbeat tempo and infectious melody seemed to weave through the air, wrapping around the arguing men like a lifeline. Suddenly, one of the fighters caught the rhythm; his foot began to tap, and before he knew it, he was moving to the music. The other man watched, confused at first, but soon he too found himself swaying, caught up in the joyful beat. The weight of their anger began to lift, as if the music was a balm soothing their frazzled nerves.

Within moments, the fight fizzled away into laughter. The two men, now rhythmically stomping along with the Stray Cats, turned their conflict into a dance-off instead. The crowd cheered them on, clapping and shouting as the music thrummed through every heart in the bar. It was a sight to behold—a moment of unity sparked by the transformative power of music. The Stray Cats had not only saved the night; they had turned a potential disaster into an unforgettable celebration of joy and resilience.

As the final notes of “Ubangi Stomp” faded into the night, the band glanced at one another, sensing a shared moment of triumph. For them, music was more than just entertainment; it was a force that could bridge divides and heal wounds. That performance propelled the Stray Cats into the spotlight, leading to record deals and worldwide tours. They became symbols of how rock and roll could change lives, reminding everyone that even tough moments could pivot into something beautiful with a little rhythm and heart.

Years later, Brian Setzer would look back at that night at the Rusty Nail as a defining moment in his life and career. It was a reminder of the resilience of human spirit and the deep connections formed through shared experiences. The band’s music continued to inspire countless fans, proving that even in the darkest times, the light of creativity and passion can shine through, bringing people together in unexpected ways. That night wasn’t just about stopping a bar fight; it was about igniting a love for music that would last a lifetime, a celebration of joy that resonated far beyond the walls of the Rusty Nail.