Pete Seeger
Stagolee
American Favorite Ballads V. 2
Pete Seeger, the renowned folk singer and activist, recorded his version of "Stagolee" in 1958. Known for his dedication to preserving and popularizing traditional American folk music, Seeger brought a unique perspective to this enduring ballad.
Seeger's rendition of "Stagolee" emphasizes storytelling, with his clear, resonant voice weaving the tale of the infamous conflict between Stagolee and Billy Lyons. Accompanied by his signature banjo, Seeger delivers the song with a blend of simplicity and emotional depth, staying true to the folk tradition while making the story accessible to a mid-20th-century audience.
In this version, the focus is on the moral and social implications of the story, reflecting Seeger's interest in the human condition and his commitment to using music as a means of fostering understanding and connection. The arrangement is straightforward, allowing the lyrics and their narrative power to take center stage.
Seeger's "Stagolee" is part of a broader effort to keep traditional ballads alive, showcasing how these stories evolve over time while retaining their core themes. His version underscores the adaptability of folk music, serving as both a historical artifact and a living, breathing piece of art that continues to resonate with listeners.
Stagolee
Stagolee was a bad man, everybody knows Spent a hundred dollars just to Buy him a suit of clothes He was a bad man, that mean ol' Stagolee Stagolee shot Billy the Lion What do you think about that? Shot him down in cold blood 'cause He stole his Stetson hat He was a bad man, that mean ol' Stagolee Well Billy the Lion said "Stagolee Please don't take my life I got a two little babes And a darlin' loving' wife You're a bad man, you mean old Stagolee" "What do I care about your two Little babes, your darlin' loving' wife? You done stole my Stetson hat I'm bound to take your life I'm a bad man, my name is Stagolee" The Judge said "Stagolee What you doin' in here? You done shot mister Billy the Lion You'rе gonna die in the elеctric chair You're a bad man, you mean old Stagolee" Well at twelve o'clock they killed him Head raised up high Last thing that poor boy said was "My six-shooter never lied" He was a bad man, that mean old Stagolee Stagolee was a bad man, everybody knows Spent a hundred dollars just to buy Him a suit of clothes He was a bad man, that mean ol' Stagolee