On July 2nd in music history, one significant event occurred in 1956 when Elvis Presley recorded his iconic song "Hound Dog" at RCA Studios in New York City. This recording session proved to be a defining moment in Elvis's career and in the history of rock and roll music.
Elvis had first heard "Hound Dog" performed by Big Mama Thornton in 1952, and he decided to record his own version of the song. However, Elvis's version was quite different from the original. He sped up the tempo, added his own distinctive vocals, and incorporated a more energetic and dynamic performance style.
During the recording session, Elvis was accompanied by his regular band, which included Scotty Moore on guitar, Bill Black on bass, and D.J. Fontana on drums. The song was produced by Steve Sholes, who had signed Elvis to RCA Records earlier that year.
According to legend, Elvis recorded 31 takes of "Hound Dog" during the session, but he was not satisfied with any of them. Eventually, he decided to take a break and started fooling around with the song, singing it in a more uptempo, playful style. The band joined in, and the result was the version of "Hound Dog" that would become a massive hit.
Released as a single on July 13, 1956, "Hound Dog" quickly climbed the charts, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and staying there for 11 weeks. The song also topped the country and R&B charts, cementing Elvis's status as a crossover sensation.
The success of "Hound Dog" helped to establish Elvis as the "King of Rock and Roll" and paved the way for his future success. The song has since been covered by numerous artists and has been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.
Elvis's recording of "Hound Dog" on July 2, 1956, remains a landmark moment in music history, showcasing his incredible talent and the birth of a new era in popular music. The song's raw energy, catchy lyrics, and Elvis's electrifying performance continue to captivate audiences to this day, making it a timeless classic that will be remembered for generations to come.