Big Mama Thornton ft. Buddy Guy - Hound Dog

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Big Mama Thornton

Big Mama Thornton circa 1955-1960
Background information
Birth name Willie Mae Thornton
Born December 11, 1926
Origin Montgomery, Alabama, United States
Died July 25, 1984 (aged 57)
Los Angeles, California, United States
Genres Rhythm and blues, Texas blues
Occupations Singer, songwriter
Instruments drums, harmonica
Years active 1947–1984
Labels Peacock, Arhoolie, Mercury, Pentagram, Backbeat, Vanguard, Ace Records (UK)
Associated acts Muddy Waters Blues Band, Lightnin' Hopkins

Willie Mae "Big Mama" Thornton (December 11, 1926 – July 25, 1984) was an American rhythm and blues singer and songwriter. She was the first to record the hit song "Hound Dog" in 1952.[1] The song was #1 on the Billboard R&B charts for seven weeks.[2] The B-side was "They Call Me Big Mama," and the single sold almost two million copies.[3] Three years later, Elvis Presley recorded his version, based on a version performed by Freddie Bell and the Bellboys. In a similar occurrence, she wrote and recorded "Ball 'n' Chain," which became a hit for her.[1] Janis Joplin later recorded "Ball and Chain," and was a huge success in the late 1960s.[4]