Stagger Lee


Bohemian Knuckleboogie

Stagger Lee

Shipwrecked Blues — 2006

Bohemian Knuckleboogie
Bohemian Knuckleboogie

Bohemian Knuckleboogie, an American band known for their eclectic blend of blues, rock, and funk, included a rendition of "Stagger Lee" on their 2006 album Shipwrecked Blues.

Their interpretation of "Stagger Lee" offers a modern twist on the traditional folk song, infusing it with energetic instrumentation and distinctive vocals that reflect the band's unique style.

Bohemian Knuckleboogie band leader Mike Pitre grew up in the fever swamps of Port Arthur, Texas, where he learned a thang or two about the blues and how to tell stories with his trumpet. Pitre now casts his spell on Knuckleboogie, moving between his horn, guitar, harmonica, soulful lyrics, scatting and rapping on an original tune and backed by a changing cast of sidemen who play in the pocket. There's no problem getting down or dancing. "It's blues for your shoes," Pitre says.

Sometimes this song goes places I don't understand. I think this speaks to the strange power and mystery of the song. Other songs have been recorded more often but no other song transforms and inspires the way Stagger Lee does.

Stagger Lee

King Kong gorilla walking
Baby
Look here

It ain't working out but don't nobody really care
You ain't gon never get even cause life is never fair
Just hold your spot and go'on and pay your dues
Go ahead, take a walk in your own pair of shoes

Go on, walk boss
Don't cry now you done paid the cost

Aw I like that
Come on now big dog

Hey you Mister poster boy, everybody watching you
Go gorilla walking off the cliff cause that's what the monsters do
And in the downward spiral you can talk about the view
Just keep on keeping on in your own pair of shoes
Go'on

This ain't Godzilla, you dealing with King Kong
That's right
Swagger Lee
Ain't nothing you can tell me

Well your eyes may shine and your teeth may grit
But if you com? up begging lady luck then you ain't getting shit
Hold your spot and go'on and pay your du?s
You're in it to win it in your own pair of shoes

Up and at em
First thing in the morning|
Rocking them Stacy Adams
Port Arthur, Texas that is
Gorilla funk from the swamp
And we mean that

Baby
Baby
Baby
Baby
Baby
Baby