Don’t Be Cruel and Hound Dog Vintage Elvis Pinbacks

On July 2, 1956, Elvis Presley recorded, both “Don’t Be Cruel” in 28 takes and “Hound Dog” in 31 takes. His input was evident on both. Scotty Moore, Bill Black and D.J. Fontana backed him. Elvis played rhythm guitar and sang. The Jordanaires sang backup vocals . Although Otis Blackwell wrote the song, he gave Elvis co-writing credit and also 50% of the publishing rights. As the song was released on Elvis Presley’s publishing company Hill and Range.   This was the first, of many lucrative deals, Colonel Parker demanded.  Parker guaranteed one million sales, for Elvis recording a song. In return, Elvis Presley would receive co-writing credit and 50% of the publishing rights. This worked out great for everyone on “Don’t Be Cruel.” It sold 4 million copies in 1956, and 6 million, by 1961. Elvis sang the song, on all 3 Ed Sullivan Television performances. Twice in Sept. 1956, and again Jan. 1957.   “Don’t Be Cruel” was the “A” side song, of the dual hit single. “Hound Dog” was the “B” side. “Hound Dog” was written by Lieber and Stoller, who retained their publishing rights. Colonel Parker wasn’t pleased, but they also wrote “Jailhouse Rock” and kept those […]