Brian Setzer, the rockabilly electric guitar legend and guitarist for the Stray Cats, has announced that he has been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease, which currently prevents him from playing guitar. Setzer first noticed symptoms of the condition when his hands began cramping up late last year while on tour. Although he does not experience pain, he describes the sensation as feeling like wearing gloves when trying to play guitar.
Autoimmune diseases cause the immune system to mistakenly attack healthy cells, potentially affecting various parts of the body. In Setzer’s case, his hands are primarily affected. Despite the challenges, there is hope for improvement. Setzer has made progress, as he can now hold a pen and tie his shoes—tasks that were previously difficult.
While there is no cure for autoimmune diseases, treatments such as anti-inflammatory drugs and targeted therapies can help manage symptoms. These treatments may eventually allow Setzer to return to playing guitar.
Setzer, inspired by musicians like Eddie Cochran and Carl Perkins, gained fame with the Stray Cats in the late 1970s. Known for his unique blend of jazz, swing, and rock ‘n’ roll, he has built a strong reputation using big-body Gretsch guitars. Described as “a guitar god” by Guitar World’s Andy G Jones, Setzer’s playing style has been highly influential. He has expressed a deep connection to hollowbody Gretsch guitars, stating that playing them is the best experience for him.