Hound Dog

The harmony is a textbook example of the 12-bar blues translated into early Rock and Roll. Distinctive for its 'stop-time' opening where Elvis begins the vocal line solo before the band enters on the first downbeat. The use of dominant 7th chords for all three functions (I, IV, and V) creates the 'dirty' blues sound, while the strict adherence to the 12-bar cycle provides the driving rhythmic energy characteristic of Scotty Moore and Bill Black's backing.

Written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller in 1952, the song was originally commissioned by bandleader Johnny Otis for blues singer Willie Mae 'Big Mama' Thornton. Leiber and Stoller wrote the lyrics on a paper bag in about 15 minutes. Elvis Presley later heard a version by Freddie Bell and the Bellboys while performing in Las Vegas in 1956 and decided to adapt their rock and roll arrangement for his own recording.

Originally a blues standard by Big Mama Thornton, Elvis Presley's 1956 interpretation transformed 'Hound Dog' into a definitive rock and roll anthem. With its aggressive delivery and driving backbeat, it bridged the gap between R&B and mainstream pop, securing its place as one of the most influential recordings in history.