About the Song
Hound Dog is a song written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller. It was first recorded by Big Mama Thornton in 1952, but it became a worldwide hit when Elvis Presley released his version in 1956.
Presley’s version of Hound Dog is a classic example of rock and roll. It features a driving beat, a catchy melody, and Presley’s own inimitable vocals. The song was a massive success, reaching number one on the charts in the United States and the United Kingdom. It has since become one of the most recognizable and beloved songs of all time.
The song’s lyrics are simple but effective. They tell the story of a man who is being cheated on by his woman. He compares her to a “hound dog,” a dog that is known for its infidelity. The song is full of anger and frustration, but it is also infused with humor.
Presley’s performance of Hound Dog is iconic. He sings the song with a sneer and a swagger that perfectly captures the song’s rebellious spirit. His performance is also notable for its sexual suggestiveness. Presley’s gyrating hips and suggestive facial expressions were considered scandalous at the time, but they helped to make him a star.
Hound Dog is a landmark song in the history of rock and roll. It helped to define the genre and it made Elvis Presley a global superstar. The song is still popular today and it continues to be performed by artists all over the world.
Here are some additional details about the song:
- The song was originally written for Big Mama Thornton, a blues singer.
- Presley’s version of the song was recorded at Sun Records in Memphis, Tennessee.
- The song was released as a single in July 1956.
- The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States.
- The song was also a hit in the United Kingdom, reaching number one on the UK Singles Chart.
- The song has been covered by many artists, including The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Tom Jones.
- Hound Dog was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1987.
- The song is ranked number 19 on Rolling Stone’s list of the “500 Greatest Songs of All Time.”
Hound Dog is a true classic of rock and roll. It is a song that has stood the test of time and it continues to be enjoyed by people all over the world.