- Insights into Brian Setzer’s Musical Journey
From his beginnings with the Stray Cats to his current work with the Brian Setzer Orchestra, Brian Setzer has carved out a unique path in the music industry. His signature style is characterized by fast cars, flashy guitars, and fiery guitar solos that have captivated audiences for decades.
Breaking into the music scene with rockabilly in the early 1980s was no easy feat, but Setzer embraced the challenge and achieved global success. In the 1990s, amidst the dominance of grunge and Britpop, Setzer made a bold move to swing and jive music, defying mainstream trends and staying true to his artistic vision.
Speaking about his unconventional choices, Setzer reflects, “I’ve always been determined to forge my own path. I have never been one to conform to trends or follow the crowd. Rockabilly was a forgotten genre before the Stray Cats revitalized it. We didn’t just recreate songs from the past; we crafted our own unique sound, pushing boundaries and creating riffs that were ahead of their time.”
Setzer’s latest album, “The Devil Always Collects,” is a testament to his enduring creativity and musical prowess. Following the success of 2021’s ”Gotta Have the Rumble,” Setzer continues to push the envelope with his electrifying rockabilly sound.
When asked about the inspiration behind his new album, Setzer reveals, “It all started with a simple guitar riff for a track like ‘Rock Boys Rock.’ I questioned whether it had been done before, and to my surprise, it was a fresh idea. From that foundational riff, the songwriting process unfolded naturally.”
Addressing the challenge of avoiding repetition in his compositions, Setzer acknowledges, “There’s no magic formula. I just let the music guide me and trust my instincts. Even if I stumble upon familiar territory, I keep playing until I discover something new and exciting.”
Through his unwavering dedication to his craft and refusal to be bound by conventions, Brian Setzer continues to captivate audiences with his innovative musical creations. His legacy as a trailblazer in the music industry remains unmatched, solidifying his status as a true icon of rockabilly and beyond.
For more insights into Brian Setzer’s musical journey and his latest album “The Devil Always Collects,” visit here.