Stagger Lee


Jerry Lee Lewis

Stagger Lee

Killer: The Mercury Years, Volume Two (1969-1972) — 1989

Stagger Lee in the Bill Curtis Saloon
Stagger Lee in the Bill Curtis Saloon

Jerry Lee Lewis's version of "Stagger Lee" appears on Killer: The Mercury Years, Volume Two (1969-1972), a collection of his recordings from that era. This box set showcases a broad range of his music, including country, rock, and blues.

His take on "Stagger Lee" retains his signature rock 'n' roll energy, blending piano-driven rhythms with his distinctive vocals. Lewis brings a gritty, boogie-woogie feel to the track, emphasizing the raw storytelling of the classic American folk tale. His rendition would stand out for its intensity, channeling the story of the infamous Stagger Lee into his fiery musical style.

Stagger Lee

Ladies and gentlemen, a fine song done by somebody
I don't know who but it's a great song anyway
Hope you enjoy my version of it

I was standing on the corner
When I heard my bulldog bark
He was barkin' at the two men
Who were gamblin' in the dark

It was Stagger Lee and Billy
Two men who gambled late
Stagger Lee threw seven
Billy swore he threw eight

Stagger Lee said, "Billy
I can't let it go that way
You have won all of my money
And my brand-new Stetson hat", alright

Stagger Lee told Billy
"You gotta pay that debt you owe"
He walked into the barroom
And he, he threw out his .44

Play it, Kenny

"Stagger Lee", cried Billy
"Oh, please, don't take my life
I got three little children
And a very sickly wife"

Stagger Lee shot Billy
He shot that poor boy so dead
That the bullet went through Billy
And it broke the bartender's glass, yeah-yeah

Stagger Lee, Stagger Lee
Stagger Lee, Stagger Lee
Stagger Lee, whoa
Shot the bartender's glass
Woo!
Aha, baby
I guarantee you, got an eye on who got this record
(Lloyd Price) Lloyd Price, right!
The name Roy Price, are you sure?