91ÇÑ×ÓÊÓÆµ

Professor writes book  about 'Hound Dog' 

February 15, 2024
Dr. Ben Wynne, a professor of history 91ÇÑ×ÓÊÓÆµ, has published a book about the story behind Elvis Presley's iconic hit 'Hound Dog.'

Article By: Clark Leonard

Dr. Ben Wynne, a professor of history at the University of North Georgia (91ÇÑ×ÓÊÓÆµ), has published a book through Louisiana State University Press about the story behind Elvis Presley's iconic hit "Hound Dog."  

was released Feb. 7.   

Wynne's book outlines how Willie Mae "Big Mama" Thornton first had a rhythm-and-blues hit with "Hound Dog" before Freddie Bell and the Bellboys rewrote much of the song to include it in their lounge performances at the Sands Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. Wynne said Presley walked into the lounge one day, heard the song and decided it would provide the perfect comic relief in his rock-and-roll shows.  

Wynne pointed to Presley's sexually suggestive performances of "Hound Dog" on network television during the 1950s as a tipping point that transformed the singer from a popular rock 'n' roll performer into a global superstar. 

"It seems like a simple song on the surface," Wynne said. "But it's got a pretty complicated backstory."  


Research looks at impact of grad school framing

Research looks at impact of grad school framing

A 91ÇÑ×ÓÊÓÆµ alumna and student partnered with their psychology mentor to publish a research article on the importance of framing in students' perceptions of graduate school.
Students create mural piece by piece

Students create mural piece by piece

Thirteen 91ÇÑ×ÓÊÓÆµ students painted mural cloth panels that made up a 44-foot-long mural that was later installed at the Avita Community Partners Behavioral Health Crisis Center in Gainesville, Georgia.
Courtney researches Oval Office décor

Courtney researches Oval Office décor

Alumna Sara Courtney's last semester at 91ÇÑ×ÓÊÓÆµ included the opportunity to visit the nation's capital and present at the Center for the Study of the Presidency and Congress.
Contest win sets up South Korea opportunity

Contest win sets up South Korea opportunity

Anna Shelley's win in the Southeastern U.S. Korean Speech Contest earned her a full-tuition scholarship and dormitory support to attend the Dankook University International Summer School.