A Hound Dog Tale: Big Mama, Elvis, and the Song That Changed Everything
9th February 2024
Ben Wynne's A Hound Dog Tale discusses the stars who made this rock 'n' roll standard famous, from Willie Mae "Big Mama" Thornton to Elvis Presley, along with an eclectic cast of characters, including singers, songwriters, musicians, record producers and managers, famous television hosts, several lawyers, and even a gangster or two. Wynne's examination of this American classic reveals how "Hound Dog" reflected the values and issues of 1950s American society, and sheds light on the lesser-known elements of the song's creation and legacy. A Hound Dog Tale will capture the imagination of anyone who has ever tapped a foot to the growl of a blues riff or the bark of a rock 'n' roll guitar. "[This book is] very well-researched. Wynne tells us the saga of 'Hound Dog' and, in doing so, contributes to the fact that Big Mama Thornton's role in this story deservedly shines again in the public eye." - Michael Spörke, author of Big Mama Thornton: The Life and Music A Hound Dog Tale is published by LSU Press. Apply code BLOG20 at checkout for 20% off this title.%20A%20Hound%20Dog%20Tale.jpg)
The release of the song "Hound Dog" in 1953 marked a turning point in American popular culture, and throughout its history, the hit ballad bridged divides of race, gender, and generational conflict.