About the song
## Stagger Lee: A Timeless Tale of Violence and Redemption
**Lloy Price’s** rendition of “**Stagger Lee**” is a classic blues song that has captivated audiences for decades. This haunting ballad, often associated with the early 20th century, tells a tragic tale of murder, revenge, and the consequences of violence.
The song’s narrative centers around the infamous character of Stagger Lee, a notorious figure in American folklore. Though the exact origins of Stagger Lee are shrouded in mystery, he is often depicted as a charismatic yet dangerous individual with a penchant for trouble. In Price’s version, Stagger Lee is involved in a deadly altercation that sets the stage for the song’s dramatic unfoldment.
The melody of “Stagger Lee” is a slow, bluesy progression that perfectly complements the somber nature of the lyrics. Price’s vocals are soulful and expressive, conveying the emotional weight of the story. The instrumentation, which includes a piano, bass, and drums, provides a steady, rhythmic foundation that anchors the song.
One of the most striking aspects of “Stagger Lee” is its ability to evoke a sense of empathy for the protagonist. Despite his violent actions, Stagger Lee is portrayed as a complex character who is ultimately a victim of his circumstances. The song explores themes of regret, redemption, and the destructive power of anger.
Price’s rendition of “Stagger Lee” is a powerful and timeless piece of music that continues to resonate with audiences today. It is a testament to the enduring appeal of the blues genre and the ability of music to tell compelling stories.
Video
Lyrics
The night was clear
And the moon was yellow
And the leaves came tumbling down
I was standing on the corner
When I heard my bulldog bark
He was barkin’ at the two men who were gamblin’
In the dark
It was Stagger Lee and Billy
Two men who gambled late
Stagger Lee threw seven
Billy swore that he threw eight
Stagger Lee (oh Stagger Lee) told Billy, (oh Stagger Lee)
I can’t (oh Stagger Lee) let you go with that (oh Stagger Lee)
You have won all (oh Stagger Lee) my money and my brand new (oh Stagger Lee)
(oh Stagger Lee) Stetson hat (oh Stagger Lee) (oh Stagger Lee) (oh Stagger Lee)
Stagger Lee (oh Stagger Lee) went home (oh Stagger Lee)
And he got his forty-four (oh Stagger Lee) (oh Stagger Lee)
Said, I’m goin’ to (oh Stagger Lee) the barroom just to pay that (oh Stagger Lee)
Debt I owe (oh Stagger Lee)
Stagger Lee went to the barroom
And he stood across the barroom door
He said, nobody move and he pulled his
Forty-four, Ooh
Stagger Lee, (oh Stagger Lee) cried Billy (oh Stagger Lee)
Oh, please (oh Stagger Lee) don’t take my life (oh Stagger Lee)
I’ve got three little (oh Stagger Lee) children and a very (oh Stagger Lee)
Sickly wife (oh Stagger Lee) (oh Stagger Lee)
Stagger Lee (oh Stagger Lee) shot Billy (oh Stagger Lee)
Oh, he shot (oh Stagger Lee) that poor boy so bad (oh Stagger Lee)
‘Till the bullet (oh Stagger Lee) came through Billy (oh Stagger Lee)and it broke the bar (oh Stagger Lee) (oh Stagger Lee)
Tender’s glass (oh Stagger Lee) (oh Stagger Lee) (oh Stagger Lee) (oh Stagger Lee) (oh Stagger Lee) (oh Stagger Lee) (oh Stagger Lee) (oh Stagger Lee) (oh Stagger Lee) (oh Stagger Lee) (oh Stagger Lee)