Stray Cats And The Night They Played With The Clash And Swapped Jackets Backstage

April 3, 2025

It was a chilly night in April 1980, the kind that makes the air crackle with excitement as the city buzzed with anticipation. Stray Cats, a rockabilly band with a sound that blended punk energy and retro vibes, were just starting to find their place in the music world. They were scheduled to open for The Clash, one of the most iconic punk bands of the era, at a small venue in New York City. For the young rockabilly trio from Long Island, this was not just another gig; it was a chance to prove themselves among legends.

As the lights dimmed and the crowd roared, the stage was set for an unforgettable night. The Stray Cats burst onto the scene, their slicked-back hair and vintage clothes catching the attention of every audience member. Brian Setzer’s guitar wailed with emotion, and the rhythm section thumped like a heartbeat, filling the venue with a sound that was fresh yet nostalgic. The crowd danced and sang along, lost in the moment, and for the band, it was a magical experience that brought them one step closer to their dreams.

Backstage after their electrifying performance, the atmosphere was electric with camaraderie and excitement. The members of The Clash were known for their punk rock rebellion and raw energy, and when they approached the Stray Cats, it felt surreal. They complimented the band on their set, sharing laughs and stories of their own struggles and triumphs in the music industry. It was heartwarming to see how accessible and genuine these legends were. In a spontaneous moment fueled by adrenaline and a shared love for music, they decided to swap jackets—an emblem of respect and admiration between two different worlds of rock.

Wearing The Clash’s iconic jackets felt like an honor for the Stray Cats, a symbol of their acceptance into a larger musical family. It was more than just a fashion statement; it represented the crossing of boundaries and genres. They knew that this moment was a turning point, one that would help shape their identity as artists. Feeling inspired, the band members envisioned their future, realizing that if they could share the stage with such influential musicians, they could achieve anything they dreamed of.

The night went on, filled with music, laughter, and stories that would make their way into the legends of rock history. When the curtains finally fell, and the crowd dispersed, the memory of that night lingered in the hearts of the Stray Cats, igniting a fire in them. They left the venue with new resolve, their artistry strengthened by the connection they felt with The Clash. This experience would fuel their creativity, pushing them to experiment with their sound and style as they forged their path in a competitive industry.

Years later, when the Stray Cats would play to sold-out shows around the world, the memory of that night, that magical exchange of jackets, and the warmth of friendship would always remind them of their humble beginnings. It was a testament to the power of music to unite people, to inspire, and to create unforgettable memories. For Brian Setzer and his bandmates, resilience and passion for their craft became the driving forces that helped them navigate the ups and downs of their careers, forever inspired by the night they played with The Clash.