Stagger Lee


Samuel Jackson

Stackolee

Black Snake Moan soundtrack — 2006

Samuel Jackson
Samuel Jackson

Samuel L. Jackson performs "Stack-O-Lee" in the 2006 film Black Snake Moan, where he plays a blues musician named Lazarus. This rendition offers a raw, Delta blues take on the classic tale of betrayal and murder, fitting the film's gritty atmosphere. Jackson's performance, both vocally and on guitar, adds an authentic edge, as he learned to play specifically for the role. His version preserves the song's dark storytelling roots while reflecting the film's Southern Gothic tone.

The performance has been praised for its intensity and Jackson's commitment, enhancing his portrayal of a deeply troubled but redemptive character. The movie and song highlight themes of sin, redemption, and survival in the harsh realities of the American South.

Stackolee

This here a song from back in the day
Nineteen hundred and sixty two
My woman put my black ass out in the cold
I said, "Baby, why you leavin'?"
She said, "Our love done gone cold"
Well, I waded through water, and I waded through mud
'Til I come to this place they calls the Bucket of Blood

You know that bartender gave me a dirty look and a dirty glass
I said, "Say, motherfucker, do you know who I am?"
He said, "Hell no, nigga! I don't give a God damn!"

I reached down in my pocket and pulled out my shiny .44
Shot that motherfucker twice. He hit the God damn floor
'Bout that time you could've heard the drop of a pin
That's when that bad motherfucker Billy Lyons walked in

'Bout that time a pimp eased up and turned out the lights
That's when I had ol' Billy Lyons dead in my sight
When the lights come back on old Billy gone to rest
I popped nine of my bullets in his motherfuckin' chest!