Stagger Lee

The Ventures, an instrumental rock band best known for their surf rock sound, recorded a version of "Stagger Lee" that brought a fresh twist to the classic story. Known primarily for their guitar-driven, instrumental tracks, the Ventures' version of "Stagger Lee" followed suit, offering an instrumental interpretation of the folk song.

While most versions of "Stagger Lee" focus heavily on the narrative of the infamous murder, The Ventures' take on the song emphasizes the musical elements, leaving the story in the background. Their version is built around their signature clean, twangy guitar sound, accompanied by rhythm and percussion that are typical of the surf rock genre. It showcases the band's ability to adapt and interpret a wide range of music, from rock and roll to folk standards like "Stagger Lee."

The Ventures’ version would appeal to fans of instrumental rock, as it combines the timeless tale of Stagger Lee with the infectious and energetic sound that the band was famous for during the 1960s and beyond. Although not as widely discussed as some of the vocal versions, The Ventures' "Stagger Lee" fits well into their catalog of inventive and engaging instrumental arrangements.