Did you know?
Elvis Presley’s rendition of “Hound Dog” stands as a rock and roll classic, originally penned by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller and first recorded by Big Mama Thornton in 1952. However, it was Presley’s 1956 interpretation that etched itself into the annals of rock and roll history.
Key Points about Elvis Presley’s “Hound Dog”:
Release and Success: Unleashed as a single in 1956, Presley’s version swiftly ascended to the zenith of success, dominating the Billboard Hot 100 chart for an unprecedented 11 consecutive weeks. This monumental achievement catapulted Presley into superstardom.
Rock and Roll Pioneer: Widely recognized as a quintessential rock and roll anthem, “Hound Dog” played a pivotal role in defining the genre. The song’s lively tempo, infectious rhythm, and Presley’s magnetic performance contributed to establishing rock and roll as a cultural force in the mid-1950s.
Iconic Performance: Elvis’s live renditions of “Hound Dog” became the stuff of legend. His dynamic, hip-shaking delivery, complemented by distinctive dance moves, stirred both admiration and controversy, shaping his public image and reputation.
Lyrics: The song’s lyrics convey a theme of disdain and rejection, addressing a mistreating partner. The chorus resonates with the memorable lines: “You ain’t nothin’ but a hound dog / Cryin’ all the time / You ain’t nothin’ but a hound dog / Cryin’ all the time.”
Cultural Impact: “Hound Dog” permeated popular culture, covered and referenced by myriad artists, and featured in films, TV shows, and commercials. Elvis’s rendition, in particular, is closely tied to the genesis of the rock and roll movement.
Enduring Legacy: “Hound Dog” endures as one of Elvis Presley’s most iconic and enduring hits, symbolizing the nascent days of rock and roll. Its lasting impact underscores Elvis’s influence as an artist and the cultural significance of the rock and roll genre.
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Lyrics
You ain’t nothin’ but a hound dog
Cryin’ all the time
You ain’t nothin’ but a hound dog
Cryin’ all the time
Well, you ain’t never caught a rabbit
And you ain’t no friend of mineWhen they said you was high-classed
Well, that was just a lie
When they said you was high-classed
Well, that was just a lie
You ain’t never caught a rabbit
And you ain’t no friend of mineYou ain’t nothin’ but a hound dog
Cryin’ all the time
You ain’t nothin’ but a hound dog
Cryin’ all the time
Well, you ain’t never caught a rabbit
And you ain’t no friend of mineWhen they said you was high-classed
Well, that was just a lie
When they said you was high-classed
Well, that was just a lie
Well, you ain’t never caught a rabbit
And you ain’t no friend of mineWhen they said you was high-classed
Well, that was just a lie
You know they said you was high-classed
Well, that was just a lie
Well, you ain’t never caught a rabbit
And you ain’t no friend of mineYou ain’t nothin’ but a hound dog
Cryin’ all the time
You ain’t nothin’ but a hound dog
Cryin’ all the time
Well, you ain’t never caught a rabbit
You ain’t no friend of mine