Essential Listening #48: Stray Cat Strut

Published July 25, 2024 | By Brian Turner

Brian Setzer brought back rockabilly with a vengeance. He had the classic rockabilly sound with his Gretsch guitar. And, he is a great guitar player!

“Stray Cat Strut” is a song by the Stray Cats, a rockabilly band from the 1980s. Here are some key details:

Release: It was released in 1981 as a single from their self-titled debut album.
Genre: The song is a classic example of rockabilly, a genre that combines rock and roll with rhythm and blues influences from the 1950s.
Songwriters: The song was written by Brian Setzer, the band’s lead vocalist and guitarist.
Style and Sound: “Stray Cat Strut” features a retro sound, with a catchy melody and lyrics that evoke a cool, rebellious attitude. It has a distinct 1950s rockabilly vibe, complete with a slap bass and a swinging rhythm.
Lyrics: The lyrics tell the story of a cool, street-smart cat who roams around town with a carefree attitude. It’s characterized by its laid-back, swaggering style.
Reception: The song became one of the Stray Cats’ biggest hits and is often considered their signature track. It helped to revive interest in rockabilly during the early 1980s.
Music Video: The music video for “Stray Cat Strut” features the band performing the song in a vintage, black-and-white style, enhancing its retro feel.
Legacy: “Stray Cat Strut” remains a popular song, frequently played on classic rock and retro stations, and is a staple in the Stray Cats’ live performances.