Ted Nugent – Cat Scratch Fever: A Raw and Wild Anthem of Rock Rebellion
Released on May 13, 1977, Cat Scratch Fever became the defining album of Ted Nugent’s career, cementing his place in rock history with its raw energy, bold attitude, and unmistakable riffs. The album’s title track, “Cat Scratch Fever,” stands as one of Nugent’s most iconic songs, an irresistible blend of hard rock, swagger, and an electrifying guitar tone that fans have come to know and love.
The song itself—propelled by Nugent’s signature ferocity—captures the essence of his unapologetic rock star persona. With its catchy, infectious riff and infectious chorus, “Cat Scratch Fever” embodies a reckless, rebellious spirit. Its lyrics, which detail a rock-and-roll lifestyle fueled by desire and indulgence, strike a chord with listeners drawn to the wild, untamed side of rock music.
Lyrically, the song revolves around the feverish effects of infatuation, with Nugent comparing it to a contagious illness—a fever that, once caught, takes control. The track’s electric guitar riff is instantly recognizable, and its driving rhythm demands attention, while Nugent’s gritty, raspy vocals add to the song’s rebellious, no-holds-barred feel.
The album itself was a commercial triumph, becoming one of Nugent’s most successful works, eventually earning multi-platinum certification from the RIAA. While “Cat Scratch Fever” was the standout hit, the album also showcased Nugent’s undeniable talents as a guitarist and his flair for creating rock anthems that were equal parts fiery and infectious.
In addition to the title track, the album features a mix of high-energy rockers and more introspective moments, all marked by Nugent’s distinctive sound. The return of vocalist Derek St. Holmes to the band—who had briefly left during the recording of Free-for-All—played a key role in bringing the album’s sonic energy to life. His powerful vocals on tracks like “Wango Tango” and “Live It Up” helped to anchor Nugent’s sound and cement the band’s high-octane reputation.
Cat Scratch Fever would prove to be the last studio album to feature bassist Rob Grange, marking a bittersweet farewell to a lineup that had become synonymous with Nugent’s electric live shows. With this album, Nugent captured the pinnacle of his rock career, combining his love for wild guitar riffs with his larger-than-life stage presence.
Nearly five decades later, “Cat Scratch Fever” remains a testament to the raw power of rock and roll. The song is still a fan favorite, often a showstopper at Nugent’s live performances, and has become one of the most memorable anthems of the 1970s. The album, much like the track, stands as a definitive statement in the genre of hard rock, with its high-octane spirit and undeniable impact. Ted Nugent’s Cat Scratch Fever continues to inspire and electrify new generations of rock fans, proving that the fever he started has never quite gone away.