The Stray Cats Kick Off 2026 U.S. Tour in Las Vegas
The Stray Cats launched their much-anticipated 2026 U.S. tour on Friday night at the Chelsea at the Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas, delivering an electrifying 22-song set that had fans on their feet. The performance marked a triumphant return for the iconic rockabilly band, who hadn’t played together in nearly a year.
A Celebratory Return to the Stage
Friday’s concert was particularly significant as it followed the cancellation of their fall 2025 tour due to lead singer and guitarist Brian Setzer’s serious health issues. However, with those challenges now behind them, the band showcased their resilience by performing crowd favorites like “Stray Cat Strut” and “Rock This Town,” alongside timeless rock ‘n’ roll classics such as Eddie Cochran’s “Twenty Flight Rock” and the instrumental hit “Sleep Walk” by Santo & Johnny.
Encore Highlights
The energy peaked during the encore, where the Stray Cats paid homage to Elvis Presley with two beloved covers: “Jailhouse Rock” and Big Mama Thornton’s “Hound Dog.” The night culminated with the high-octane finale of “Built for Speed,” leaving fans exhilarated and eager for more.
Brian Setzer’s Health Journey
In early 2025, Setzer revealed that he was battling an autoimmune disease that severely impacted his ability to play guitar. “There is no pain, but it feels like I am wearing a pair of gloves when I try to play,” he shared with fans. Fortunately, Setzer has made significant progress since then, stating, “I can hold a pen and tie my shoes,” a testament to his determination and recovery.
Upcoming Tour Plans
The Stray Cats are set for a busy year ahead, with dozens of shows lined up through December. The current leg of their tour will wrap up on August 16 in Morristown, New Jersey. After a three-month hiatus, they will return to the stage for a second leg, kicking off on November 9 in Grand Prairie, Texas, and concluding on December 6 in Mashantucket, Connecticut.
Set List from July 24, 2026, Las Vegas Performance
- “Please Don’t Touch” (Johnny Kidd and the Pirates cover)
- “Too Hip, Gotta Go”
- “Runaway Boys”
- “Double Talkin’ Baby” (Gene Vincent & His Blue Caps cover)
- “My One Desire” (Dorsey Burnette cover)
- “Stray Cat Strut”
- “Gene and Eddie”
- “Rumble in Brighton”
- “Twenty Flight Rock” (Eddie Cochran cover)
- “Sleep Walk” (Santo & Johnny cover)
- “Cry Baby”
- “Three Time’s a Charm”
- “My Baby Left Me” (Arthur “Big Boy” Crudup cover)
- “When Nothing’s Going Right”
- “Bring It Back Again”
- “Blast Off”
- “I Won’t Stand in Your Way”
- “Fishnet Stockings”
- “Rock This Town”
- Encore:
- “Jailhouse Rock” (Elvis Presley cover)
- “Hound Dog” (Big Mama Thornton cover)
- “Built for Speed”
Conclusion
The Stray Cats’ tour kickoff in Las Vegas not only marked a return to form for the band but also highlighted their enduring legacy in rock music. Fans can look forward to more exciting performances as the band continues their tour throughout the year.
FAQs
When did the Stray Cats start their 2026 U.S. tour?
The Stray Cats began their 2026 U.S. tour on July 24, 2026, in Las Vegas.
What songs were performed during the Las Vegas concert?
The set list featured 22 songs, including hits like “Stray Cat Strut,” “Rock This Town,” and covers of classics such as “Jailhouse Rock” and “Hound Dog.”
What health issues did Brian Setzer face before the tour?
Brian Setzer was dealing with an autoimmune disease that impacted his ability to play guitar, which led to the cancellation of the band’s fall 2025 tour.
What are the upcoming tour dates for the Stray Cats?
The first leg of their tour will end on August 16, 2026. After a break, they will resume on November 9, 2026, with the second leg concluding on December 6, 2026.
