Stagger Lee

Bruce Jackson, a prominent American folklorist and ethnographer, is renowned for his extensive work in documenting African American oral traditions, particularly in the context of prison culture during the 1960s and 1970s. His seminal book, Get Your Ass in the Water and Swim Like Me, published in 1974, delves into the rich tapestry of toasts—narrative poems and stories recited within the African American community.

"Get Your Ass in the Water and Swim Like Me" is considered one of the great, classic collections of African-American literature and folklore. Originally published by in 1974, it quickly gained the reputation as a classic collection of black folk poetry. This book will delight students of African-American culture and folklore, and anyone who enjoys the double entendres and hidden meanings found in the oral tradition, from its African roots to contemporary rap.

In his fieldwork, Jackson recorded various versions of "Stack-O-Lee" from inmates, capturing the song's evolution and its significance within the oral tradition. These recordings offer invaluable insights into the cultural and historical contexts of the narrative. One such recording, collected at the Ramsey Unit of the Texas Department of Corrections on November 17, 1965, is featured in the audio companion to his book.

Henry, Ramsey version
Joe, Ellis version
Frank, Ramsey version
Bobby, Jefferson City version
Gene, Wynne version
Chicago Informant's version
Bob, Connelly Migrant Camp version
Stackolee in Hell Bobby, Jefferson City