Elvis Presley's Iconic Recording Session: The Story Behind 'Don't Be Cruel' and 'Hound Dog
Seventy years ago, on July 2, 1956, Elvis Presley made history by recording two future No. 1 hit songs, "Don't Be Cruel" and "Hound Dog," at RCA Victor Studios in New York City. These iconic tracks became defining songs of the '50s rock and roll era and remain signature songs of "The King of Rock and Roll" to this day. The songs were released just 11 days after the recording session, marking a significant milestone in Presley's career.
The song "Don't Be Cruel" was written by American songwriter Otis Blackwell, who sold it to a publishing company for $25 on Christmas Eve in 1955. Presley's publishing company, Hill & Range, then reached an agreement with Blackwell to record the song, leading to its eventual success. "Don't Be Cruel" was later ranked 200th in Rolling Stone magazine's 2004 list of the '500 Greatest Songs of All Time', although it was excluded from their updated rankings in 2021.
Over the years, "Don't Be Cruel" has been covered by various iconic singers and music groups, including Neil Diamond, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Everlife. The enduring popularity of this song is a testament to Presley's influence on the music industry and his lasting impact on rock and roll music.
In conclusion, the 70th anniversary of Elvis Presley's recording session that produced "Don't Be Cruel" and "Hound Dog" is a significant milestone in music history. These timeless songs continue to captivate audiences and showcase Presley's talent and legacy as a music icon.