Leeroy Stagger

Leeroy Stagger is a Canadian singer-songwriter working in alternative country and rock. He is from Victoria and Lethbridge, and is born in 1982. Raised in rural British Columbia, he starts out playing in several local bands before moving into songwriting under his own name.

Early releases and label work

Stagger releases his debut independent EP, Six Tales of Danger, in 2002. He then gains attention from artists including Hot Hot Heat and Carolyn Mark. In 2004, he tours as support for Hot Hot Heat and develops a reputation within the Victoria music scene.

His album Dear Love follows and brings wider notice. It is produced by Tolan McNeil and described as an alt-country rock record. Boompa Records later releases Beautiful House in 2006, with production by Danny Michel. The single “Just in Case” appears in episodes of Grey’s Anatomy and is also used in other television and film placements.

Later albums and collaborators

In 2007, Boompa releases Depression River, which presents a more developed songwriting style and stronger vocal confidence. Stagger tours the record in the United States, the United Kingdom and Europe. During the recording of its follow-up, he becomes sober and continues the project with producer John Ellis. The sessions involve drummer Pat Steward, bassist Tyson Maiko and guitarist Kevin Kane.

The resulting album, Everything is Real, includes guest appearances by Bobby Furgo, Tim Easton, Evan Phillips and Neal Casal. The title track has a brisk, punk-influenced feel, while “Red Bandanna” draws on the style associated with early Lucinda Williams.

Other projects and live work

Stagger is also a member of the folk trio Easton, Stagger, Phillips, alongside Tim Easton and Evan Phillips. He forms Rebeltone Records for the trio’s release One for the Ditch. He also performs as touring support for acts including The Pixies, Ron Sexsmith, Tegan and Sara, Kathleen Edwards, George Thorogood, Joel Plaskett, The Drive-By Truckers and Jason Isbell. He lives in Lethbridge, Alberta.