Brian Setzer Reveals Autoimmune Disease Has Left Him Unable to Play Guitar
Brian Setzer, the legendary guitarist and frontman of both the Stray Cats and the Brian Setzer Orchestra, has opened up about a recent health diagnosis that has left him unable to play guitar.
In an emotional Instagram post, Setzer shared close-up images of his hands playing guitar, explaining that during the final leg of the last Stray Cats tour, he began to experience cramping in his hands. He later discovered he had developed an autoimmune disease that affects his ability to play. “I cannot play guitar,” Setzer admitted in his post.
He further clarified that while there is no pain, his hands feel as though they’re “wearing a pair of gloves” when attempting to play. “I can hold a pen and tie my shoes now, which is progress. I know it sounds ridiculous, but I couldn’t even do that at one point,” he added.
Setzer expressed gratitude to the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota for their treatment, saying, “Luckily, I have the best hospital in the world down the block from me.” He remained optimistic about his recovery, stating, “I know I will beat this, it will just take some time. I love you all.”
Setzer first rose to fame in the 1980s with the Stray Cats, blending 1950s-inspired rockabilly with a modern edge. The band’s debut album produced hits like Stray Cat Strut and Rock This Town. After the band’s initial split in 1984, Setzer enjoyed a successful solo career and went on to form the Brian Setzer Orchestra.
In 2024, the Stray Cats announced their return with a three-week US summer tour, marking their first tour in five years. Fans now await news of Setzer’s recovery and potential return to the stage.
