Stray Cats' Brian Setzer, of Long Island, Can No Longer Play Guitar

MASSAPEQUA, NY — Veteran rocker and Massapequa native Brian Setzer is no longer able to play guitar due to an auto-immune disease. Setzer, known for his work as frontman for the Stray Cats, posted to his Instagram account about the health crisis, although he did not specify the disease.

"There is no pain, but it feels like I am wearing a pair of gloves when I try to play," Setzer said.

Setzer, 65, said he is noticing some progress, "in that I can hold a pen and tie my shoes."

Success for Setzer came in the 1980s when the Stray Cats launched in the United Kingdom. By 1982, Setzer and the band, with help from the burgeoning MTV, made their presence felt in the U.S.

"Stray Cats Strut" and "Rock This Town" became anthems for the group.

Setzer said he'll check into the Mayo Clinic, which is near his home in Minnesota.

"I know I will beat this, it will just take some time," he wrote.