Stagger Lee

Billy's Band, a Russian ensemble known for their unique blend of jazz, blues, and rock, released an unofficial album titled "Being Tom Waits" in 2002. This album serves as a tribute to the iconic American musician Tom Waits, featuring cover versions of his songs, and including "Stagger Lee." The project was initially recorded to prepare for a tour in Germany, comprising 19 tracks that blend Waits' compositions with the band's original pieces.

Billy's Band's rendition infuses their distinctive style, incorporating elements of jazz and blues, and features instrumentation such as double bass, light percussion, guitar riffs, and accordion. This approach adds a unique texture to the minimalist sound of the original composition.

The album "Being Tom Waits" also served as a soundtrack to a theatrical performance by the band, reflecting their deep appreciation for Waits' artistry. Initially, the album was distributed primarily at their concerts, with limited online availability.