Why is Brian Setzer unable to play guitar? Stray Cats guitarist shares health update

Rockabilly icon and Stray Cats frontman Brian Setzer has shared a health update with fans: he is currently unable to play guitar due to an autoimmune disease.

The Grammy-winning musician, beloved for his performances and signature guitar style, made the announcement via social media, explaining that the condition has severely affected his motor skills.

Despite the current adverse situation, Setzer is optimistic about his recovery. He revealed that he is undergoing treatment at the Mayo Clinic and has seen some small improvements in his ability to perform basic tasks like holding a pen and tying his shoes. While no specific diagnosis has been disclosed, the news has left fans and music enthusiasts rallying around him in support.

Brian Setzer took to his official Instagram page to post the update. He shared some of his old performance stills with guitar in hand and captioned,

"Hi everybody, I just wanted to check in with you all. Towards the end of the last Stray Cats tour I noticed that my hands were cramping up. I’ve since discovered that I have an auto-immune disease. I cannot play guitar."

He continued:

"There is no pain, but it feels like I am wearing a pair of gloves when I try to play. I have seen some progress in that I can hold a pen and tie my shoes. I know this sounds ridiculous, but I was at a point where I couldn’t even do that. Luckily, I have the best hospital in the world down the block from me. It’s called the Mayo Clinic. I know I will beat this, it will just take some time. I love you all, Brian"

Many fans see this as a significant setback for Setzer, whose career spans over four decades, from pioneering the rockabilly revival with Stray Cats to leading the Brian Setzer Orchestra.

Netizens supported the artist with comments that weighed in on the post. One such fan commented:

"Sending love , strength and healing prayers to you great man! You were born to play and If anyone can beat this you can. 🙏🙏"

Others also joined in under the comments. Below are what some of them had to share:

"If anyone is truly The Guitar Man it is you Brian. Best wishes", declared a fan.

"Wishing you the best, maestro!", wished another.

"Sending healing vibes and positive energy!", supported a third.

"I love your guitar playing the best in the world. I grew up listening to your guitar playing and copied many of your guitar phrases. And I also use a Gretsch as my main guitar.", shared a fourth.

Brian Setzer struggles with an autoimmune condition

In his Instagram post, Setzer detailed how he first noticed symptoms toward the end of Stray Cats’ 2024 summer tour. His hands began cramping, making it difficult to play. As the condition progressed, he described the sensation as feeling like he was "wearing a pair of gloves" while attempting to play guitar.

Autoimmune diseases occur when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own cells, often leading to chronic symptoms that can impact mobility and coordination. Other artists, such as Céline Dion (Stiff Person Syndrome) and Selena Gomez (Lupus), have also spoken publicly about their struggles with autoimmune conditions.

For now, the music world waits, hopeful that one of its most beloved performers will soon be back on stage, guitar in hand.