New Lost City Ramblers
Stackerlee
New Lost City Ramblers - Vol. 4 — 1962
The New Lost City Ramblers were an influential American folk group formed in 1958, known for their authentic renditions of traditional American folk, old-time, and country music. The group included Mike Seeger, John Cohen, and Tom Paley (later replaced by Tracy Schwarz in 1962). They were pivotal in the folk revival movement, inspiring audiences and musicians with their dedication to preserving the sounds of early 20th-century rural music.
The New Lost City Ramblers recorded "Stackerlee" as part of their exploration of folk narratives. Their rendition retains a strong old-timey feel, reflecting their commitment to traditional Appalachian and Southern music styles.
The New Lost City Ramblers used acoustic instruments typical of old-time music, such as banjo, fiddle, and guitar. This gave their version a raw, authentic sound. The vocals are delivered in a straightforward, unadorned manner, emphasizing the storytelling aspect of the songThe New Lost City Ramblers were passionate about highlighting the roots of American music and brought songs like "Stackerlee" to new audiences in the mid-20th century. Their work continues to influence contemporary folk and roots musicians.