Hound Dog

Definition

Hound Dog is a classic rock and roll song originally recorded by blues singer Big Mama Thornton in 1952, later made famous by Elvis Presley in 1956. The song's powerful lyrics and catchy rhythm became iconic, representing the energetic spirit of early rock and roll and highlighting the genre's connection to African American musical traditions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Hound Dog' was written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, two prominent songwriting duo who played a key role in shaping rock and roll music.
2. The song was initially not commercially successful until Elvis Presley's rendition, which reached number one on the Billboard pop charts.
3. Elvis Presley's version of 'Hound Dog' features a more upbeat tempo and rock sound compared to Big Mama Thornton's original blues style.
4. The performance of 'Hound Dog' on The Ed Sullivan Show became one of Elvis's most memorable moments, helping to cement his status as a rock and roll superstar.
5. 'Hound Dog' has been covered by numerous artists over the years, showcasing its enduring legacy within the music industry.

Review Questions

• How did the original version of 'Hound Dog' by Big Mama Thornton differ from Elvis Presley's rendition?
  • Big Mama Thornton's original version of 'Hound Dog' had a slower, bluesy feel with powerful vocal delivery that showcased her strong roots in African American music traditions. In contrast, Elvis Presley's rendition transformed the song into a faster, upbeat rock and roll track, reflecting the changing musical landscape of the mid-1950s. This shift not only highlighted the versatility of the song but also introduced it to a wider audience, significantly impacting its popularity.
• Discuss the impact of 'Hound Dog' on the careers of both Big Mama Thornton and Elvis Presley.
  • 'Hound Dog' played a crucial role in shaping the careers of both artists, albeit in different ways. For Big Mama Thornton, while her original version was not commercially successful, it established her as a formidable blues singer and laid the groundwork for future female artists. On the other hand, Elvis Presley's cover skyrocketed him to fame, solidifying his status as a rock and roll legend and contributing to his image as a cultural icon. This contrast in their experiences highlights both the challenges faced by early black artists and the commercial opportunities presented by white performers in the genre.
• Evaluate how 'Hound Dog' illustrates the cultural shifts occurring in music during the transition to rock and roll in the 1950s.
  • 'Hound Dog' serves as a prime example of the cultural shifts occurring as rock and roll emerged in the 1950s, blending various musical influences such as rhythm and blues with mainstream pop. The song's transition from Big Mama Thornton's blues style to Elvis Presley's more energetic rock interpretation exemplifies this fusion. Additionally, its success highlights issues of race in music, showcasing how African American artists laid foundational work that was often appropriated by white performers for commercial success. This dynamic illustrated broader societal changes during a time when cultural boundaries were being challenged and redefined.

Related terms

Rock and Roll: A genre of popular music that emerged in the late 1940s and early 1950s, blending elements of rhythm and blues, country, and gospel music.

Big Mama Thornton: An influential blues singer who originally recorded 'Hound Dog,' known for her powerful voice and impactful contributions to the music scene in the early 1950s.

Elvis Presley:

A cultural icon and musician often referred to as the 'King of Rock and Roll,' known for his charismatic performances and significant influence on popular music.