Stray Cat Strut

The song 'Stray Cat Strut' by Stray Cats encapsulates the rebellious and carefree spirit of the 1980s rockabilly revival. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a stray cat, which serves as a metaphor for a person who lives life on their own terms, unconcerned with societal norms or material wealth. The cat's nonchalant attitude towards poverty ('Ain't got enough dough to pay the rent / I'm flat broke, but I don't care') and its prideful demeanor ('I strut right by with my tail in the air') suggest a character who values freedom and individuality over security and conformity.

The chorus of the song ('Stray cat strut, I'm a lady's cat / A feline casanova') further develops this character as a charming rogue, a lover who is confident in their allure and independence. The mention of getting 'a shoe thrown at me from a mean old man' and getting 'my dinner from a garbage can' illustrates the cat's resilience and ability to thrive despite adversity. This resilience is a key aspect of the song's appeal, as it celebrates the underdog who makes the most out of a less-than-ideal situation.

Musically, 'Stray Cat Strut' is characterized by its rockabilly sound, a genre that combines rock and roll with country and blues influences. The Stray Cats were known for reviving this style in the early 1980s, and the song's catchy rhythm and bluesy guitar solos contribute to its storytelling. The lyrics 'Singin' the blues while the lady cats cry / Wild stray cat you're a real gone guy' not only reference the musical style but also reinforce the image of the protagonist as a cool, detached observer of life, living in the moment and embracing their outsider status.