Stagger Lee

The Clash's version of "Wrong 'Em Boyo," featured on their 1979 album London Calling, is a reinterpretation of the traditional folk-blues narrative surrounding Stagger Lee. The title "Wrong 'Em Boyo" comes from the Jamaican Patois phrase meaning "You're wrong, boy," and the song incorporates elements of reggae and ska, reflecting the band's diverse musical influences.

Written by Clive Alphonso; and originally performed by The Rulers, this version paints Stagger Lee as explicitly the hero and Billy the villain. Thematically, "Wrong 'Em Boyo" echoes the conflict and emotional turmoil found in the Stagger Lee narrative. The song's lyrics reflect the themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the consequences of violence, similar to the traditional tale of Stagger Lee.

The Clash discovered "Wrong 'Em Boyo" through their exploration of reggae and ska music, which was gaining popularity in the UK during the late 1970s. The band was known for its eclectic sound, blending punk rock with various genres, including reggae. The lyrics of "Wrong 'Em Boyo" can be seen as a response to the original Stagger Lee story, presenting a modern twist on the classic themes of violence and retribution.

Musically, "Wrong 'Em Boyo" features a driving rhythm and upbeat tempo, characteristic of ska and reggae, making it distinct from traditional blues interpretations of the Stagger Lee story. The Clash's energetic performance and incorporation of brass instruments add to the song's infectious rhythm, inviting listeners to engage with the narrative in a lively, dynamic way.

The Clash's "Wrong 'Em Boyo" serves as a modern reinterpretation of the Stagger Lee legend, blending elements of punk, reggae, and ska to create a unique and engaging version. By infusing the traditional story with their distinct musical style, The Clash not only pay homage to the original narrative but also revitalize it for a new generation of listeners.

Stagger Lee met Billy
And they got down to gambling
Stagger Lee throwed seven
Billy said that he throwed eight, hey
And Billy said "Hey Stagger
I'm gonna make my big attack
I'm gonna have to leave my knife in your back"

Why do you try to cheat
And trample people under your feet?
Don't you know it is wrong
To cheat the trying man?
Don't you know it is wrong
To cheat the trying man?
You better stop
It is the wrong 'em boyo

You lie, steal, cheat and deceive
In such a small, small game
Don't you know it is wrong
To cheat the trying man?
Don't you know it is wrong
To cheat the trying man?
You better stop
It is the wrong 'em boyo

Billy Boy has been shot
And Stagger Lee's come out on top
Don't you know it is wrong
To cheat the trying man?
Don't you know it is wrong
To cheat Stagger man?
You'd better stop (so you better stop)
Hey, it is the wrong 'em boyo (hey)

Now you must start all over again
All over again
Don't you know it is wrong?
Play it, Billy, play
Don't you know it is wrong?
Well, play it, Billy, play
And you will find
It is the right 'em boyo

But if you must lie and deceit
And trample people under your feet
Don't you know it is wrong
To cheat a trying man?
Don't you know it is wrong
To cheat a trying man?
You better stop

It is the wrong 'em boyo (hey)
It is the wrong 'em boyo
It is the wrong 'em boyo
It is the wrong 'em boyo
It is the wrong 'em boyo
Wrong 'em boyo