Stray Cats And The First Time They Sold Out The Hammersmith Odeon And Couldn’T Believe It

April 3, 2025

The night air buzzed with excitement as the Stray Cats prepared to take the stage at the legendary Hammersmith Odeon in London. It was 1981, and for a band that had clawed its way up from the gritty streets of New York, this moment felt surreal. Brian Setzer, the lead guitarist and vocalist, could hardly believe they were about to perform at a venue that had hosted so many of their idols. They had spent years dreaming about this opportunity, and now, as the crowd’s cheers echoed through the halls, it was finally happening.

As they stepped into the spotlight, the roar of the crowd drowned out any nerves. The lights flickered, and for a moment, Brian thought back to all the nights spent rehearsing in dingy bars, the hours of grinding just to make a name for themselves. They were a rockabilly band in a world dominated by new wave and punk, and many had doubted their sound. But that never stopped them. Their unique style, blending classic rockabilly with a punk edge, was what made them different—and tonight, it was going to shine.

The first song kicked off with a blaze, and Brian’s fingers danced over the strings of his guitar, sending waves of energy through the audience. The crowd sang along, their voices rising like a tidal wave of support. With every chord, the atmosphere grew electric, and Brian felt a rush of joy and disbelief. Could they really be selling out the Hammersmith Odeon? They had worked tirelessly for this moment, and now it was unfolding right before their eyes. The passion in their performance was palpable, a celebration of the journey they had taken together.

As the night progressed, Brian and his bandmates, Slim Jim Phantom and Lee Rocker, could see the impact they were having. People of all ages were dancing and smiling, lost in the magic of the music. When they finished their set, the audience erupted in applause, chanting for more. It was a moment of pure ecstasy, the culmination of years of hard work and resilience. They were no longer just a band struggling to make it; they were a force to be reckoned with, and the sold-out crowd at the Hammersmith Odeon was a testament to that.

After the show, as they stood backstage, a sense of disbelief washed over them. The journey had not been easy; they had faced rejection, harsh critics, and countless challenges. But this night proved that dedication and passion could conquer all. Brian looked around at his bandmates, their faces lit with joy and pride. They had made it, not just as musicians, but as a family. This experience would change their lives and careers forever, opening doors they had only dreamed of.

The sold-out show at the Hammersmith Odeon became a pivotal moment for the Stray Cats, marking them as a significant player in the music scene. They went on to achieve great success, inspiring countless young musicians to follow their dreams. That night, they didn’t just play music; they created a legacy of resilience and hope, showing that with passion and perseverance, anything is possible. The echoes of that unforgettable performance would stay with them forever, a reminder of where they came from and how far they had come.