The Rulers
Wrong 'em Boyo
"Wrong 'Em Boyo" by The Rulers is a classic rocksteady track originally released in 1966. Written by Clive Alphonso; and originally performed by The Rulers, this version paints Stagger Lee as explicitly the hero and Billy the villain. The song is a unique take on the Stagger Lee narrative, blending Jamaican rhythm with a twist on the story, which recounts a dice game gone wrong and a moral tale about dishonesty.
The Rulers' version brings a playful and upbeat approach to the otherwise grim tale, contrasting with the heavier tone found in other renditions of Stagger Lee. Its infectious rhythm and catchy melody have made it a favorite in Jamaican music and ska circles, known for its call-and-response style that adds to its engaging, danceable quality.
The song also gained broader recognition when The Clash covered it on their 1979 album London Calling, adding punk rock energy while staying true to the lively essence of the original.That was Stagger Lee and Billy Two men who gamble late Stagger Lee throwed seven Billy swore that he throwed eight Brakes! Wrong 'em Boyo, start all over again Why do you try to cheat In such a small, small game? Don't you know it was wrong To cheat the trying man? Don't you know it was wrong To cheat the trying man? Don't you know it was wrong To cheat the trying man? Don't you know it was wrong To cheat the trying man? Someday you're gonna fall Someday you're gonna fall Why do you lie, steal, cheat and deceit And try to trample people under your feet You better stop It is the wrong 'em boyo Why do you lie, steal, cheat and deceit And try to trample people under your feet You better stop It is the wrong 'em boyo Now you start again All over again Play it, Billy, style [?] Play it, Billy, style [?] And we will have a right 'em boyo