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Laura Dukes

Stack O'Lee Blues

Tennessee Blues Vol. 1 — 1971

Laura Dukes
Laura Dukes

Laura Dukes, a Memphis blues musician known for her ukulele playing and distinctive voice, recorded a version of "Stack O'Lee Blues" where she self-accompanied on ukulele. Her interpretation follows the traditional storyline of Stack O'Lee, focusing on the gambling dispute between Stack O'Lee and Billy that escalates into violence. The lyrics portray the pivotal confrontation, including the infamous line about Stack O'Lee retrieving his .44 revolver to settle the score. This version reflects the enduring legacy of the tale while highlighting Dukes' unique musical style.

Stack O'Lee Blues

I was standing by my window when I heard my bulldog bark
He was barking at two men who was gamblin' in the dark

It was Stack O'Lee and billy, two men who gamble late
Stack O'Lee threw seven and Billy swore that he threw eight

Stack O'Lee told Billy, "I don't let you go with that.
You have won all my money and my brand new Stetson hat."

Stack O'Lee went home and he got his .44
Says, "I'm goin' to the barroom just to pay that debt I owe."

Stack O'Lee went to the barroom, stood across the barroom floor
He said, "Don't nobody move.", and he pulled his .44

"Stack O'Lee", cried Billy, "Oh, please don't take my life!
I've got three little chirren and a very sickly wife."

Stack O'Lee shot Billy, oh he shot that poor boy so bad
'Cause the bullet went through Billy and it broke the bartender's glass

Poor Stack O'Lee, poor Stack O'Lee, poor Stack O'Lee, poor Stack O'Lee
Poor Stack O'Lee, poor Stack O'Lee