Big Mama Thornton – Hound Dog

Song of the Day

Today’s song of the day is from Big Mama Thornton – Hound Dog.  Before Elvis got his hands on it, this song was a No. 1 hit for Big Mama, spending 7 weeks at the top of the R&B charts in 1953.  Per Wikipedia, the guitar is by Pete Lewis of Johnny Otis’ band.  The song is part of the birth of rock and roll, with Big Mama belting the song in a blues style, but the riffs somewhat like Dale Hawkins’ Suzy Q.  She might not be much to look at, but boy could she wail.  We give you two versions – the record itself, and a live version of Big Mama with Buddy Guy on guitar.