b. Leon T. Gross, 14 September 1912; New Orleans,
LA
d. 8 January 1973; New Orleans, LA
Sometimes a musician becomes permanently associated
with a particular selection, and that alone certifies their
longevity. In Archibald’s case, that benchmark is the
1950 release ‘‘Stack-a-Lee.’’ Most people associate the
composition with Lloyd Price’s 1958 release entitled
‘‘Stagger Lee.’’ Archibald’s version appeared on an
Imperial single and reached the R&B top ten. Subsequently, the pianist, born Leon T. Gross, aka ‘‘Archie
Boy,’’ returned to national anonymity, although he
continued to record for Imperial through 1958. He
made his living through residences at New Orleans
venues such as the Poodle Patio Club and the Court of
Two Sisters, his recording career known only to the
cognoscenti of the city’s musical culture.
DAVID SANJEK
Bibliography
AMG (Bruce Eder); Harris; Larkin; Santelli
Discography: AMG; LSFP