Stray Cats And The Time Brian Setzer Broke A String Mid-Solo And Finished Anyway—On One Hand

April 3, 2025

It was a warm summer evening in 1981, and the air inside the packed nightclub was electric with anticipation. The Stray Cats, a rockabilly band that had quickly gained fame, were set to perform. Among them was Brian Setzer, the lead singer and guitarist, known for his wild pompadour and incredible guitar skills. Fans packed the venue, eagerly waiting to hear the energetic tunes that had made the band a household name. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement, a testament to their rising stardom.

As the band launched into their hit song, “Rock This Town,” the crowd roared with enthusiasm. Brian, with his vibrant personality and captivating guitar riffs, truly owned the stage. He played with a passion that made it seem as if each note flowed from his very soul. Strumming fast and hard, he ignited the crowd, sending them into a frenzy. But just as he reached the heart of his soaring guitar solo, disaster struck—he broke a string. The sharp twang echoed through the speakers, cutting through the joyous sounds like a knife. For most musicians, this would be a moment of panic or despair, but not for Brian Setzer.

Without missing a beat, Brian glanced at his guitar and then at the crowd. Instead of stopping, he made a split-second decision that would inspire everyone present. He continued the solo with just five strings, his fingers dancing with unwavering intensity across the fretboard. The crowd could hardly believe their eyes. Here was a man who refused to let anything stand in his way, not even a broken string. With every note he played, he proved that the spirit of rock and roll was about resilience and creativity.

The moment became legendary, a shining example of determination in the face of adversity. Fans still talked about that night as they left the club, their voices filled with awe and inspiration. Brian’s ability to adapt and carry on during that solo not only showcased his talent but also cemented his status as a musician who would not be easily defeated. It was a reminder that challenges could be transformed into opportunities when met with passion and courage.

For Brian Setzer, that night was a defining moment in his career. It reinforced his belief that music was not just about perfection; it was about connection and spirit. The Stray Cats went on to achieve even greater success, but that performance remained a touchstone for Brian. Whenever he faced challenges in life or music, he would look back on that unforgettable solo—a moment when he turned a potential disaster into a triumphant display of his love for rock and roll.

Years later, Brian still spoke about that night with a smile on his face. It was a lesson learned: Life, like music, is unpredictable, and sometimes the best moments come from embracing the unexpected. In a world where things often go wrong, Brian Setzer showed us that with a little creativity, passion, and a lot of determination, we can turn even the most challenging situations into something beautiful. That broken string became less of a setback and more of a stepping stone, inspiring countless fans to pursue their dreams no matter the obstacles they faced.