About The Song
"Hound Dog" by Elvis Presley is an iconic rock and roll anthem that has left an indelible mark on the landscape of popular music. Originally written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, the song was first recorded by Willie Mae "Big Mama" Thornton in 1952 as a rhythm and blues track. However, it was Elvis Presley's 1956 rendition that catapulted "Hound Dog" into mainstream success and turned it into a cultural phenomenon.
Presley's version of "Hound Dog" is a high-energy rock and roll performance that showcases his dynamic vocal style and charismatic stage presence. Backed by the infectious beat of Scotty Moore's guitar and Bill Black's bass, the song became a defining moment in the evolution of rock music. Presley's energetic delivery and the catchy, rebellious lyrics made "Hound Dog" a rallying cry for the youth culture of the time.
The lyrics of "Hound Dog" tell a tale of romantic disappointment and frustration. The protagonist expresses his disillusionment with a deceptive and unfaithful partner, using the metaphor of a "hound dog" to describe the untrustworthy character. The playful yet assertive tone of the lyrics resonated with a generation of young listeners who were eager to embrace the rebellious spirit of rock and roll.
One of the most iconic performances of "Hound Dog" took place on The Ed Sullivan Show in 1956. Elvis' electrifying rendition, complete with his characteristic hip-shaking dance moves, created a sensation and solidified his status as a cultural phenomenon. The performance became a defining moment in the history of television and is often cited as one of the most memorable moments in Presley's career.
"Hound Dog" became a chart-topping hit for Elvis Presley and remained a staple of his live performances throughout his career. The song's impact extended far beyond the charts; it became a symbol of the cultural shift taking place in the mid-1950s, as rock and roll began to dominate the musical landscape.
Decades later, "Hound Dog" is recognized as one of the cornerstone songs in the history of rock and roll. Its influence can be heard in the work of countless musicians who followed in Elvis Presley's footsteps. The song's enduring popularity and its association with the early days of rock and roll underscore its significance as a cultural touchstone, forever linking it to the dynamic and rebellious spirit of the genre.
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Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the 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 mine
Well, they said you was high-classed
Well, that was just a lie
Yeah, they said you was high-classed
Well, that was just a lie
Yeah, you ain't never caught a rabbit
And you ain't no friend of mine
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 mine
Well, they said you was high-classed
Well, that was just a lie
Yeah, 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 mine
Well, they said you was high-classed
Well, that was just a lie
Ya 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 mine
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
You ain't no friend of mine
You ain't nothin' but a hound dog