Big Mama Thornton

USA, 1947–1984

American blues singer (1926-1984) who made the first recording of 'Hound Dog' in 1952, three years before Elvis Presley, and wrote and first recorded 'Ball and Chain', later taken up by Janis Joplin.

MusicRoots documents 1 artist who influenced Big Mama Thornton and 2 artists Big Mama Thornton influenced in turn. Every connection cites a published source.

Who influenced Big Mama Thornton?

• Bessie Smith — Thornton named Bessie Smith among the voices she grew up on — the classic blues shouting tradition she carried into R&B.

Which artists did Big Mama Thornton influence?

• Elvis Presley — Elvis's 'Hound Dog' is a version of the song first recorded by Big Mama Thornton.
• The Zombies — Argent traced 'Hound Dog' back from Elvis to Thornton, and built on what he found.