The middle of 20th-century saw major shifts in pop music, including the introduction of new musical works. These distinctions are also visible in renditions of comparable tunes, as in the case of Lieber & Stoller’s Hound Dog. The 1952 Big Mama Thornton version and Elvis Presley’s 1957 rendition are notable variations. There are significant differences between the two Hound Dog versions in terms of instrumentation and vocals as well as their respective creation years. The age difference is evident between both versions.
Big Mama Thornton’s Big Mama Thornton version accentuated vocals while ignoring the instrument’s melody. Elvis used a softer tone and was more in tune to the instrument’s pitch. The singer, however, used a deeper, richer voice that was accompanied with a bass. The Big Mama Thornton version also used only the bass guitar with distant percussion sounds. Elvis was supported vocally by a bass guitar (piano, saxophone), and piano to create the necessary jazz style that was growing in popularity. The performance also features the electric guitar, which is prominent because it is played in the transitions among the instruments. Elvis’s rhythm helps to create a danceable tune. This is a sign of his determination to make the performance more approachable and enjoyable for his audience. He walked fast and encouraged rhythmic dancing. This was a fitting choice for younger audiences who were eager to learn more about jazz and popular music.