Stagger Lee


Big Chief Alfred Doucette

Stagger Lee

Rollin' Wit Da Legends & Marie Laveau — 2007

Big Chief Alfred Doucette
Big Chief Alfred Doucette

Big Chief Alfred Doucette was a prominent figure in the New Orleans Mardi Gras Indian tradition, serving as the Big Chief of the White Cloud Hunters tribe. The Mardi Gras Indians are known for their elaborate handmade suits, vibrant cultural traditions, and deep ties to African American and Creole heritage in New Orleans. Doucette was celebrated for his leadership, artistry, and dedication to preserving this unique cultural practice.

His album Rollin' Wit Da Legends & Marie Laveau is a testament to his role as a cultural ambassador, blending Mardi Gras Indian chants, rhythms, and storytelling with New Orleans' rich musical traditions. The album features his version of "Stagger Lee," infused with the distinctive sounds of New Orleans, incorporating elements of funk, R&B, and Mardi Gras Indian call-and-response chants. This version stands out for its cultural and regional flavor, transforming the classic tale of Stagger Lee into a celebration of New Orleans' musical and cultural heritage.

Doucette's interpretation of "Stagger Lee" on Rollin' Wit Da Legends & Marie Laveau reflects his ability to bridge traditional Mardi Gras Indian music with broader American musical traditions. The album as a whole is a tribute to the legends of New Orleans, including the enigmatic figure of Marie Laveau, the famed voodoo queen. Doucette's work remains an important part of the city's cultural legacy, showcasing the enduring influence of the Mardi Gras Indians on New Orleans music and beyond.