The Anthem of Rock 'n' Roll
Hound Dog is one of the most defining songs of the 20th century. Recorded by Elvis Presley in 1956, it transformed a blues standard into a high-octane rock and roll explosion. While the notes themselves aren't incredibly high, the challenge lies in the relentless energy, the rhythmic precision, and that unmistakable Elvis attitude.
To sing this well, you need to abandon the idea of "pretty" singing. This track requires percussive vocalization, forward placement, and a looseness in the jaw to capture the swing. Let's break down exactly how to tackle it, section by section.
AI Coach Tip: Focus on Articulation
Because the tempo is fast (~175 BPM), users often slur the opening line. Ensure you articulate the consonants in "You ain't nothin' but a..." clearly before hitting the sustained note on "Hound Dog."
Phase 1: The Rhythmic Attack
The song starts with a vocal pickup before the band fully kicks in. The verses are delivered in a staccato style. You shouldn't hold these notes too long; they need to pop.
The Trap: Running out of breath. The phrases come quickly. Practice "sipping" air quickly through your mouth during the short rests between the call-and-response lines.
Phase 2: The Blues "Scoop"
Elvis was a master of the blues scale. When he sings "Cryin' all the time," he doesn't just hit the note straight on. He scoops up to it from below.
- Cryin': Start slightly flat and slide up quickly to the true pitch. This creates the "wailing" effect.
- All the time: Keep this rhythmic and tight to lock in with the drummer.
Phase 3: The Growl & Texture
To sound like the King, you need a bit of grit. This isn't done by screaming (which hurts your throat), but by using "twang" and a slightly higher larynx position to create a piercing sound.
The line "You ain't never caught a rabbit" is often sung with a rougher texture. Try imitating a "nasty" tone—like a playground taunt—to find this placement safely.
Frequently Asked Questions
The highest belted note is roughly an E4. However, Elvis often adds improvised shouts that may go higher, but the melody sits comfortably in the mid-range.
Absolutely. While Elvis had a baritone quality, the song is high energy and sits well for Tenors. You may just sound slightly brighter than the original recording.
That is vibrato mixed with nervous energy. Relax your jaw and let the air flow freely on the longer notes like "Dog" and "Friend."
