When it comes to classic rock and roll, few names are more iconic than Elvis Presley. The King of Rock and Roll sold over one billion records, and his music is still being heard and enjoyed by generations of fans today. One of his most iconic songs was "Hound Dog," which was released as a single and topped the Billboard charts in 1956. But just how long did Elvis' classic tune stay on the charts?
Elvis' version of "Hound Dog" was released on July 13, 1956, and it quickly rose to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It stayed there for 11 weeks, a remarkable feat for any single. It also topped the R&B Singles chart for seven weeks, and it was certified gold for sales of one million copies sold. "Hound Dog" was the first of five singles by Elvis to reach number one on both the Hot 100 and R&B Singles charts.
In addition to being a commercial success, "Hound Dog" was a critical success as well. The single was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1998 and Rolling Stone ranked it number 19 on its list of the 500 greatest songs of all time. It was also named one of the 500 songs that shaped rock and roll by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The single has been covered by countless artists, including Jerry Lee Lewis, the Beatles, and Bruce Springsteen.
Elvis' version of "Hound Dog" stayed on the Billboard Hot 100 chart for an impressive 25 weeks. It eventually dropped off the chart on October 20, 1956 after spending 11 weeks at number one and 14 weeks in the Top 10. It was replaced by "Love Me Tender" by Elvis, which was his first single to be released after signing with RCA Records in 1956. "Love Me Tender" was actually a re-titled version of "Aura Lee," an old song from the Civil War.
The success of "Hound Dog" catapulted Elvis to superstardom and helped to make him one of the biggest stars in the music industry. The song has become a classic, and it is still being played and enjoyed by fans around the world today. It has also been featured in numerous films and television shows, including The Simpsons and Family Guy.
What Made "Hound Dog" Such a Hit?
Elvis' version of "Hound Dog" was a hit for several reasons. The song was written by the legendary duo of Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, who wrote some of Elvis' biggest hits, including "Jailhouse Rock" and "Loving You." The song is an uptempo blues song with a catchy beat and an infectious chorus. Elvis brought a rock and roll edge to the song, with his signature swivel and hip-shaking moves. The lyrics were also powerful and relatable, which resonated with listeners of the time.
What Other Singles Did Elvis Release After "Hound Dog"?
After "Hound Dog," Elvis released a string of iconic singles. "Love Me Tender" was the most successful of these, reaching number one on both the Hot 100 and R&B Singles charts. "Heartbreak Hotel," "Don't Be Cruel," and "All Shook Up" were also successful singles, each reaching number one on the Hot 100 chart. Elvis also released a number of other successful singles, including "Blue Suede Shoes," "Too Much," and "Teddy Bear."
What Other Artists Have Covered "Hound Dog"?
Since its release in 1956, "Hound Dog" has been covered by a number of artists. In addition to Elvis, the song has been covered by Jerry Lee Lewis, the Beatles, Bruce Springsteen, and Johnny Cash, among others. In 1988, it was also covered by the band Big Mama Thornton, whose version was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1998.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When was "Hound Dog" released?
A: "Hound Dog" was released on July 13, 1956.
Q: How long did "Hound Dog" stay on the Billboard Hot 100 chart?
A: "Hound Dog" stayed on the Billboard Hot 100 chart for 25 weeks.
Q: Who wrote "Hound Dog"?
A: "Hound Dog" was written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
Q: What other artists have covered "Hound Dog"?
A: "Hound Dog" has been covered by a number of artists, including Jerry Lee Lewis, the Beatles, Bruce Springsteen, and Johnny Cash.
Q: How did "Hound Dog" contribute to Elvis' success?
A: "Hound Dog" was Elvis' first single to reach number one on both the Hot 100 and R&B Singles charts. It was also a critical success and helped to catapult Elvis to superstardom.
Q: What other singles did Elvis release after "Hound Dog"?
A: After "Hound Dog," Elvis released a string of iconic singles, including "Love Me Tender," "Heartbreak Hotel," "Don't Be Cruel," and "All Shook Up."
Q: How was "Hound Dog" received by critics?
A: "Hound Dog" was a critical success. It was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1998 and was ranked number 19 on Rolling Stone's list of the 500 greatest songs of all time.
Q: What is the meaning behind the song "Hound Dog"?
A: The song "Hound Dog" is about a man who is fed up with his lover's lies and deceit. He tells her to go away and not come back, comparing her to a hound dog.
Q: How did Elvis perform "Hound Dog"?
A: Elvis performed "Hound Dog" with his signature swivel and hip-shaking moves. He also sang it in a passionate and soulful style.
Q: How has "Hound Dog" been featured in popular culture?
A: "Hound Dog" has been featured in numerous films and television shows, including The Simpsons and Family Guy.