Introduction:
“Hound Dog” is a seminal track in the annals of rock and roll, famously associated with Elvis Presley. Released on July 13, 1956, as the B-side to “Don’t Be Cruel,” the song quickly overshadowed its A-side counterpart, becoming a defining hit of Presley’s career. This rock and roll classic not only topped multiple charts but also played a pivotal role in shaping the genre’s trajectory.
Origins and Early Versions
Before Elvis’s rendition, “Hound Dog” had its roots deeply embedded in the blues. The song was penned in 1952 by the prolific songwriting duo Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller. They crafted it specifically for blues singer Willie Mae “Big Mama” Thornton. Thornton’s powerful and raw delivery brought the song to life, and she recorded it on August 13, 1952, at Radio Recorders Annex in Los Angeles. Released by Peacock Records in late February 1953, Thornton’s version resonated with audiences, selling over 500,000 copies. It dominated the R&B charts, holding the number one spot for seven consecutive weeks and remaining on the chart for a total of fourteen weeks. Thornton’s “Hound Dog” is celebrated for its significant influence, earning a spot in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s “500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll” and ranking at 318 in Rolling Stone’s 2021 iteration of the “500 Greatest Songs of All Time.” In February 2013, it was rightfully inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.
The song’s infectious rhythm and compelling lyrics led to numerous cover versions, with more than 250 recorded renditions. One notable early cover was by Freddie Bell and the Bellboys in 1955. They introduced a more upbeat, rock and roll-infused interpretation, which they performed during their residency at the Sands Casino in Las Vegas. It was during this time that Elvis Presley, then an emerging artist, encountered their version. Impressed by its energy and style, Presley decided to incorporate “Hound Dog” into his own performances.
Elvis Presley’s Adoption and Recording
Elvis’s first live performance of “Hound Dog” took place on May 16, 1956, during a concert in Little Rock, Arkansas. The audience’s enthusiastic reaction solidified his decision to record the track. On July 2, 1956, Presley entered RCA’s New York City studio to lay down the track. Accompanied by his regular band members—Scotty Moore on lead guitar, Bill Black on bass, D.J. Fontana on drums, and backing vocals from the Jordanaires—Presley sought to capture the electrifying energy he had witnessed in Bell’s performance. After an exhaustive session, spanning multiple takes, the 28th take was selected as the master. This version showcased a faster tempo and a more aggressive delivery compared to Thornton’s original, embodying the rebellious spirit of the burgeoning rock and roll movement.
Release and Reception
Upon its release, “Hound Dog” achieved unprecedented success. It soared to the number one position on the US pop, country, and R&B charts in 1956, a remarkable feat that underscored its cross-genre appeal. The song maintained its dominance on the pop chart for 11 consecutive weeks, setting a record that remained unbroken for 36 years. Globally, Presley’s rendition sold approximately 10 million copies, making it one of the best-selling singles of all time and solidifying it as his best-selling song.
The cultural impact of “Hound Dog” was further amplified by Presley’s dynamic television performances. Notably, his appearance on “The Milton Berle Show” on June 5, 1956, showcased his charismatic stage presence and provocative dance moves, which, while controversial at the time, propelled him to superstardom. This performance, viewed by over 40 million people, became a defining moment in television history and cemented “Hound Dog” as an emblem of the rock and roll revolution.
Legacy and Achievements
Over the decades, “Hound Dog” has garnered numerous accolades. Presley’s 1956 RCA recording was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1988, recognizing its lasting significance. In 2004, Rolling Stone magazine ranked it number 19 on their list of the “500 Greatest Songs of All Time,” highlighting its enduring influence on music and culture. The song is also featured in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s “500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll,” underscoring its pivotal role in the genre’s development.
In summary, “Hound Dog” stands as a monumental work in music history. From its blues origins with Big Mama Thornton to its explosive popularity through Elvis Presley’s rendition, the song encapsulates the evolution of American music in the mid-20th century. Its achievements, both commercially and culturally, continue to resonate, affirming its status as a timeless classic that transcends generations.