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Elvis Presley’s performance of “Hound Dog” on The Ed Sullivan Show in 1956 is considered one of the most iconic moments in rock and roll history. The show, which was watched by millions of viewers across the country, introduced Elvis to a wider audience and cemented his status as a cultural phenomenon.
Elvis’s performance was characterized by his signature dance moves and powerful vocals, which were matched by the energetic performance of his band. The song itself was a cover of a blues hit by Big Mama Thornton, but Elvis’s version, with its driving rhythm and explosive energy, became an instant classic.
The performance was not without controversy, however. Elvis’s provocative hip movements and overall demeanor were considered scandalous by many at the time, and Sullivan himself had initially been hesitant to book him on the show. Nevertheless, the performance was a huge success, and Elvis would go on to make several more appearances on the program.
Today, the performance is still celebrated as a milestone in the history of rock and roll, and is often cited as a key moment in the cultural shift of the 1950s. It remains an enduring symbol of Elvis’s talent, charisma, and impact on American music and popular culture.