Introduction:
“Little Sister” is a standout track in Elvis Presley’s extensive catalog, released on August 8, 1961, as the B-side to “His Latest Flame.” Written by the renowned songwriting duo Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman, the song blends rock and roll with rockabilly influences, showcasing Elvis’s dynamic vocal performance. The song narrates a lighthearted yet cheeky tale of romantic complications involving two sisters, underpinned by playful lyrics and an infectious rhythm.
Recorded during a session at RCA Studio B in Nashville, “Little Sister” featured key contributions from Elvis’s regular session musicians, including Hank Garland on guitar and Floyd Cramer on piano. Notably, Scotty Moore’s sharp lead guitar riff adds a distinctive edge to the track. The recording captures the energy and charisma that were hallmarks of Elvis’s artistry during this period.
“Little Sister” achieved commercial success, peaking at number five on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming one of Elvis’s most memorable tracks from the early 1960s. The song’s catchy melody and relatable theme of romantic entanglements made it a favorite among fans and established its place in the canon of classic rock and roll.
The song’s legacy extends beyond its initial release, having been covered by various artists over the years, including Ry Cooder and Dwight Yoakam. It remains a testament to Elvis’s ability to deliver compelling narratives with charm and energy, solidifying his status as the “King of Rock and Roll”.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Little Sister”
Little sister, don’t you
Little sister, don’t you kiss me once or twice
Then say it’s very nice
And then you run
Little sister, don’t you
Do what your big sister doneWell, I dated your big sister
And took her to a show
I went for some candy
Along came Jim Dandy
And they snuck right out of the door
Little sister, don’t you
Little sister, don’t you
Little sister, don’t you kiss me once or twice
Then say it’s very nice
And then you run
Little sister, don’t you
Do what your big sister done
Ev’ry time I see your sister
Well she’s got somebody new
She’s mean and she’s evil
Like that old Boll Weevil
Guess I’ll try my luck with you
Little sister, don’t you
Little sister, don’t you
Little sister, don’t you kiss me once or twice
Then say it’s very nice
And then you run
Little sister, don’t you
Do what your big sister done
Well, I used to pull your pigtails
And pinch your turned-up nose
But you been a growin’
And baby, it’s been showin’
From your head down to your toes
Little sister, don’t you
Little sister, don’t you
Little sister, don’t you kiss me once or twice
Then say it’s very nice
And then you run
Little sister, don’t you
Do what your big sister done