Did Elvis stole Hound Dog? This question has been a topic of debate among music enthusiasts for decades. The story of how the iconic rock ‘n’ roll star acquired the rights to the song “Hound Dog” is as intriguing as the song itself. Let’s delve into the fascinating history behind this legendary tune.
The song “Hound Dog” was originally written and recorded by the African American singer, Willie Mae “Big Mama” Thornton, in 1952. Thornton’s version of the song became a hit, but it was Elvis Presley’s rendition in 1956 that propelled the song to international fame. This version, with its distinctive rock ‘n’ roll style, played a significant role in shaping Elvis’s career and the music scene of the 1950s.
However, the story of Elvis’s acquisition of the song is not straightforward. There have been claims that Elvis “stole” the song from Thornton, leading to a long-standing debate over whether he was given proper credit for his version. According to some accounts, Elvis’s manager, Colonel Tom Parker, convinced Thornton to sign over the rights to the song to Elvis’s record label, RCA Victor, without her knowledge.
In response to these claims, it’s essential to note that the situation was more complex than a straightforward theft. Thornton and Elvis had a professional relationship, and there were instances where Thornton performed with Elvis. Moreover, Thornton was paid for her performance of “Hound Dog” on Elvis’s television show, “The Milton Berle Show,” in 1956.
The real issue lies in the fact that Thornton was not credited as the composer of the song on the Elvis version, which was released as a single. This lack of credit has led to accusations that Elvis and his team were attempting to capitalize on Thornton’s success without giving her due recognition.
In 1974, Thornton filed a lawsuit against Elvis and RCA Victor, claiming that she had been exploited and that her contributions to the song had been overlooked. The lawsuit was settled out of court, and Thornton received a settlement and a percentage of the royalties from the song.
Despite the controversy, it’s undeniable that both Elvis Presley and Big Mama Thornton had significant contributions to the song “Hound Dog.” Elvis’s version of the song became an enduring classic, while Thornton’s original rendition laid the groundwork for the rock ‘n’ roll genre. The debate over who “stole” the song highlights the complex dynamics of the music industry and the importance of acknowledging the artists who create the music we love.
In conclusion, while it’s true that Elvis Presley’s version of “Hound Dog” gained immense popularity and success, it would be inaccurate to say that he “stole” the song from Big Mama Thornton. Both artists played crucial roles in the song’s legacy, and their contributions should be celebrated and recognized.
