Archibald (Leon T. Gross)
Stack-a-lee Parts 1 & 2
Archibald, a New Orleans R&B pianist and singer, recorded on of the most influential version of "Stack-a-Lee" in 1950. His version became a regional hit and brought new life to the legendary folk ballad.
The song was released on Imperial Records and featured a blend of New Orleans rhythm and blues, with Archibald's piano playing at the forefront. His version modernized the traditional narrative by incorporating the rolling, boogie-woogie piano style that was popular in New Orleans at the time. The arrangement also included strong rhythm section backing, making it a danceable and catchy track that appealed to the post-war audience.
Archibald’s "Stack-A-Lee" was not only successful in popularizing the story once again, but it also inspired many later artists to record their own versions. His take on the song became a blueprint for subsequent R&B and rock and roll interpretations, influencing artists like Lloyd Price, who would later record a chart-topping version in 1959.
His later recordings failed to match the commercial success of "Stack-A-Lee". The song's storytelling, rhythmic drive, and Archibald's distinct piano style ensured its place as a significant entry in the long history of "Stagger Lee" recordings.