Stagger Lee

Furry Lewis, a well-known blues guitarist and singer from Memphis, recorded his version of "Billy Lyons and Stack O'Lee" in 1927.

Furry Lewis's version stands out for its storytelling, laid-back vocal delivery, and rhythmic guitar accompaniment. The story centers around the dispute between Stack O'Lee and Billy Lyons which ends in violence. The conflict is often portrayed as a fight over a Stetson hat, reflecting themes of pride, gambling, and reputation that were common in blues narratives. Lewis's version retains the tragic and somber tone of the tale, with a sense of inevitability in the outcome.

The lyrics in Lewis's version focus on the altercation between the two men, where Stack O'Lee ends up shooting Billy Lyons. The song reflects a mix of folklore and historical truth, as the story of Stack O'Lee was inspired by an actual event that took place in St. Louis in 1895. In Lewis's rendition, the conversational storytelling style and the raw guitar work create an intimate feel, emphasizing the human aspect of the tale. His slide guitar technique adds a haunting quality to the piece, enhancing the emotional weight of the lyrics.

Unlike some of the more famous versions, such as Mississippi John Hurt's or , Lloyd Price's "Stagger Lee," Lewis's rendition focuses more on the raw, narrative aspects rather than embellishing the story with elaborate production. His approach is more straightforward, reflecting his own unique style of blending Delta blues with Memphis blues elements.

I remember one September, on a Friday night: 
Stack O' Lee and Billy Lyons had a great fight. 
Cryin' when you lose your money, learn to lose

Billy Lyons shot six-bit, Stack O' Lee bet he'd pass.
Stack O' Lee out with his .45, said "You done shot your last."
When you lose your money, learn to lose 

Lord a woman come a-running, fell down on her knees.
Crying "O Mr. Stack O' Lee don't shoot my brother please."
When you lose your money (guitar completes phrase)

I ain't talkin' 'bout some gambler, goin' to see Richard Lee.
Shot one thousand dollars and come out on a three.
Crying when you lose your money learn to lose 

Lord the judge told the sheriff, "We want him dead or alive."
"How in the world, can we bring when he totes a .45?"
When you lose your money, learn to lose 

Lord a woman told the judge, "My husband's name Jack Shelf." 
"Won't arrest poor Stack O' Lee better go somewheres else." 
When you lose your money, learn to lose