Elvis Presley "Hound Dog"

Elvis Presley is one of the most influential artists who popularized rock and roll worldwide. One of his most iconic songs is Hound Dog. Originally recorded as a blues song in 1952, Elvis’ 1956 cover transformed it into a global hit. His version became a defining moment in rock and roll history, showcasing his energetic performance style and shaping his musical legacy.

This article explores the background, songwriting, chart success, and music video (or notable performances) of Hound Dog.

Song Overview

Hound Dog was originally recorded by Willie Mae "Big Mama" Thornton in 1952 as a blues number. Her version had a slow, groovy rhythm and powerful vocals, staying true to the blues tradition.

Elvis Presley’s version, released in July 1956, took a completely different approach. The tempo was significantly increased, and the addition of aggressive guitar and driving drums transformed it into an energetic rock and roll song. His passionate vocal delivery and dynamic stage presence elevated the song, making it a symbol of rebellion and youthful energy.

The lyrics tell the story of calling someone a "hound dog," essentially accusing them of being untrustworthy and deceitful. While originally a metaphor from blues culture, Elvis’ version made it sound more straightforward and universal.

Songwriting and Production

Hound Dog was written by the songwriting duo Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller. Though young at the time, they later became legendary for penning classics like Jailhouse Rock, Stand by Me, and Yakety Yak. Initially written for Big Mama Thornton, the song gained a completely new identity with Elvis’ reinterpretation.

Elvis' version was produced by Steve Sholes, an RCA Records A&R executive who played a crucial role in shaping his early career. Under his direction, Hound Dog turned into a raw and electrifying rock and roll anthem.

The song’s distinctive instrumental sound was created by Elvis’ band, featuring Scotty Moore on guitar, Bill Black on bass, and D.J. Fontana on drums. Scotty Moore’s guitar riff became one of rock and roll’s most recognizable musical elements.

Charts

Elvis Presley’s Hound Dog became a massive hit upon its release in 1956. It spent 11 consecutive weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, making it one of his most commercially successful singles.

The song also charted on both the R&B and country charts, demonstrating Elvis’ crossover appeal. In the UK, it climbed the charts as well, further solidifying his global presence.

Interestingly, Hound Dog was released as a double A-side single alongside Don’t Be Cruel, another major hit. Both songs became cultural milestones, marking the rise of rock and roll as a dominant force in popular music.

Music Video

At the time, official music videos did not exist, but Hound Dog gained immense popularity through Elvis’ live television performances.

One of the most famous performances was on The Milton Berle Show on June 5, 1956. During this appearance, Elvis performed without his guitar, using exaggerated hip movements and an expressive stage presence. The provocative dance moves caused controversy, with some critics calling it inappropriate.

On July 1, 1956, Elvis appeared on The Steve Allen Show, where the producers, in response to the backlash, staged a comedic performance where he sang the song to a real hound dog. This performance was intentionally restrained, contrasting with his usual energetic style.

Later, on September 9, 1956, he performed on The Ed Sullivan Show. Due to concerns over his movements, the cameras were instructed to film him only from the waist up. Despite these restrictions, his performance was electric and helped cement Hound Dog as a rock and roll classic.

Elvis Presley "Hound Dog" (October 28, 1956) on The Ed Sullivan Show

Listen on Amazon Music Unlimited (Free for 30 days)

Elvis Presley “Don’t Be Cruel”

Elvis Presley’s “Don’t Be Cruel,” released in 1956, is a classic hit with a strong connection to his earlier song "Hound Dog." Both tracks were released in the same year and played a crucial role in shaping Elvis's musical identity. “Don’t Be Cruel” features a blend of rock and roll and R&B, a sound that became synonymous with Elvis’s style. The song conveys emotional turmoil and longing in a romantic relationship, showcasing Elvis’s passionate vocal delivery. Along with “Hound Dog,” “Don’t Be Cruel” helped establish Elvis Presley as a dominant figure in the music world, solidifying his place in rock and roll history.

: Elvis Presley "Don’t Be Cruel"
Elvis Presley "Don’t Be Cruel" Elvis Presley’s “Don’t Be Cruel” is a single released in 1956 that became a cornerstone of rock and roll. This song is one of the most iconic works in Presley’s career, showcasing his captivating vocal talent and energetic performance. Upon its release, it had a tremendous impact on young people and elevated Presley to an even higher star status. Song Overview “Don’t Be Cruel” is a song about emotional conflict in love and the desperate desire to reconnect with a loved one. In the lyrics, Presley pleads with his lover not to be cold to ...

: Hit songs of the 1950s
In the history of music, the 1950s stand out as the era that revolutionized popular culture with the birth and explosive rise of rock and roll. The hit songs of this period remain timeless, continuing to captivate listeners even today. Iconic artists like Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry, and Little Richard created masterpieces that left an indelible mark on the music world. In this article, we’ve carefully selected the standout hits of the 1950s, delving into the charm and historical significance of each song. These timeless classics bring together nostalgia and fresh excitement, offering something special for every music lover. Bill ...