Stagger Lee

Bob Dylan covered Frank Hutchison’s 1927 version of “Stack a Lee” on his 1993 album World Gone Wrong. Frank Hutchison is remembered as the first white man to record the blues. Given Dylan’s affinity for Woody Guthrie, why didn’t he cover one of Woody’s versions?

truth is shadowy. in the pre-postindustrial age, victims of violence were allowed (in fact it was their duty) to be judges over their offenders -- parents were punished for their children's crimes (we've come a long way since then) the song says that a man's hat is his crown.”
-- Bob Dylan

Dylan performed his version as part of his 1993 album World Gone Wrong, which consists entirely of covers of traditional folk and blues songs. This album reflects Dylan's deep connection to the roots of American music and his admiration for the blues tradition.

In Dylan's rendition of "Stack A Lee," he uses a stripped-down, acoustic arrangement, emphasizing his raw vocal style and guitar playing. The minimalist nature of the track creates a sense of intimacy and gives it an authenticity that fits well with the song's storytelling roots. Dylan’s gravelly voice adds a gritty texture to the lyrics, which enhances the dark, mythic atmosphere of the story.

Dylan's version emphasizes the cold, matter-of-fact nature of the violence, and his delivery brings out the chilling inevitability of the story. Unlike other versions that might soften the narrative or turn it into a lively tune, Dylan retains the stark and haunting quality, highlighting the tragedy and senselessness of the crime.

Lyrically, Dylan sticks closely to the traditional narrative, but his phrasing and delivery make the story feel almost like a spoken-word tale, with emphasis on the conversational aspect of the lyrics. The simplicity of his guitar accompaniment and his deliberate vocal pace help focus attention on the story itself, rather than on any elaborate musical arrangement.

Dylan's version of "Stack A Lee" on World Gone Wrong showcases his ability to breathe new life into traditional songs while staying true to their origins. He approaches the material with both reverence and individuality, providing a direct and unembellished interpretation that pays homage to the folk-blues tradition. By including "Stack A Lee" on this album, Dylan connects his music to the broader tradition of American folk, underscoring his role not only as a songwriter but also as a custodian of folk music history.