Frank Hutchinson
Stackalee
Frank Hutchison's version of "Stackalee" is a notable early recording of the classic folk song about the infamous Stagger Lee (or Stack O'Lee). Hutchison, a white blues musician from West Virginia, recorded his version in 1927 for Okeh Records, making it one of the earliest known versions to be recorded by a non-African American artist. Hutchison's "Stackalee" exemplifies a blend of Appalachian folk and blues styles, which reflects his background as a coal miner and his exposure to both African American and Appalachian musical traditions.
Hutchison’s version retains much of the traditional story that appears in earlier versions of the song. The lyrics recount the infamous altercation between Stack O'Lee and Billy Lyons, which ends with Stack shooting Billy over a dispute—often said to be about a Stetson hat. However, Hutchison's delivery is unique, characterized by his powerful vocal style and impressive guitar work. He played slide guitar using a knife, a technique that gives his version a distinctive, raw sound that sets it apart from more polished recordings.
The music in Hutchison's "Stackalee" is played with a driving, rhythmic style that blends blues influences with a more upbeat, folk feel. The combination of his slide guitar technique and his clear, almost narrative singing style brings a dramatic flair to the song. While earlier versions of "Stackalee" often emphasized the dark, tragic aspects of the story, Hutchison's approach is more matter-of-fact, focusing on the storytelling in a straightforward way that reflects his folk roots.
Hutchison's recording played a key role in spreading the "Stackalee" story beyond its African American origins to a broader audience, including the Appalachian and white rural communities. His version helped popularize the song among listeners who might not have otherwise been familiar with African American blues music at the time. It also reflects the fluid boundaries between musical genres like blues, folk, and country during the early 20th century, when artists like Hutchison were experimenting with different styles and influences.
Frank Hutchison's "Stackalee" remains an important piece of the song's history, capturing a unique blend of traditions and serving as a bridge between different musical worlds. His version is a testament to the enduring appeal of the story of Stagger Lee—a character whose legend continues to resonate across generations and genres.