Mary Allen
Introduction: The Origins of "Hound Dog"
"You Ain’t Nothin’ But a Hound Dog" is a popular blues song that has become a classic in American music. The song’s lyrics describe a man who is likened to a hound dog, who is "cryin’ all the time." The song’s origins can be traced back to the 19th century, where it was sung by African American blues musicians in the Mississippi Delta. The song was later adapted and recorded by several artists in the early 20th century, including Big Mama Thornton, who was the first to record the song in 1952.
Early Versions of "Hound Dog"
Before Big Mama Thornton’s recording in 1952, "Hound Dog" was performed by several notable blues musicians, including Willie Mae "Big Mama" Thornton. The song was said to have been a popular folk song in the African American community in the 19th century. However, it was not until the early 20th century that the song began to be recorded and performed more widely. In the 1930s and 1940s, several blues musicians, including Arthur Crudup and Tommy Duncan, recorded their versions of the song.
The First Recording of "Hound Dog"
The first recording of "Hound Dog" was made by Willie Mae "Big Mama" Thornton in 1952. Thornton was a blues singer and songwriter who was known for her powerful voice and her ability to play the harmonica and drums. In 1952, Thornton was signed to Peacock Records, a Houston-based label that specialized in rhythm and blues music. "Hound Dog" was recorded at a session in Los Angeles, California, with Johnny Otis, a prominent bandleader and producer at the time.
Big Mama Thornton’s Version
Big Mama Thornton’s version of "Hound Dog" was a bluesy, up-tempo song that featured Thornton’s powerful vocals and a rhythm section that included a piano, drums, and a saxophone. The song’s lyrics described a man who was "cryin’ all the time" and "ain’t nothin’ but a hound dog." Thornton’s version of the song was a hit in the rhythm and blues charts and helped to establish her as a prominent blues singer.
How Elvis Presley Discovered "Hound Dog"
Elvis Presley first heard "Hound Dog" in 1955, while he was on tour with his band in the South. The song was being played on a local radio station, and Presley was immediately struck by its rhythm and blues sound. He was so impressed by the song that he began to incorporate it into his live performances, often performing it as an encore. It was during one of these performances that he caught the attention of RCA Records, who eventually signed him to a recording contract.
Elvis Presley’s Recording of "Hound Dog"
Elvis Presley’s recording of "Hound Dog" was released in 1956 and became one of his most popular songs. The song was recorded at RCA Studios in New York City, with a rhythm section that included a guitar, bass, drums, and piano. Presley’s version of the song was faster and more upbeat than Thornton’s original version, and featured a guitar solo that became one of the most recognizable guitar riffs in rock and roll history.
The Impact of "Hound Dog" on Elvis’s Career
" Hound Dog" was a massive hit for Elvis Presley, reaching the top of the charts in both the United States and the United Kingdom. The song’s success helped to establish Presley as a major force in the music industry and helped to cement his reputation as the "King of Rock and Roll." The song has since become one of the most widely recognized and iconic songs in American music history.
Controversy Surrounding Elvis’s Cover
Elvis Presley’s cover of "Hound Dog" was not without controversy. Some critics accused Presley of stealing the song from Big Mama Thornton and appropriating African American music for his own gain. However, others argued that Presley’s version of the song was a tribute to Thornton and helped to introduce her music to a wider audience. Despite the controversy, "Hound Dog" remains an important part of American music history.
Other Artists Who Covered "Hound Dog"
" Hound Dog" has been covered by several notable artists over the years, including Jerry Lee Lewis, The Beatles, and Jimi Hendrix. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and its place in American music history.
Conclusion: The Legacy of "Hound Dog"
" Hound Dog" is a classic song that has become a staple of American music. Its origins can be traced back to the 19th century, where it was a popular folk song in the African American community. The song was later recorded by several blues musicians, including Big Mama Thornton, who was the first to record the song in 1952. Elvis Presley’s cover of the song in 1956 helped to establish him as a major force in the music industry and helped to cement the song’s place in American music history.
References and Further Reading
- "Hound Dog (song)." Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hound_Dog_(song)
- "Big Mama Thornton Biography." AllMusic. https://www.allmusic.com/artist/big-mama-thornton-mn0000051258/biography
- "Elvis Presley Biography." AllMusic. https://www.allmusic.com/artist/elvis-presley-mn0000180228/biography
Endnotes
- "Hound Dog (song)." Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hound_Dog_(song)
- "Big Mama Thornton Biography." AllMusic. https://www.allmusic.com/artist/big-mama-thornton-mn0000051258/biography
- "Elvis Presley Biography." AllMusic. https://www.allmusic.com/artist/elvis-presley-mn0000180228/biography