Professor writes book about 'Hound Dog'
Dr. Ben Wynne, a professor of history at the University of North Georgia (UNG), has published a book through Louisiana State University Press about the story behind Elvis Presley's iconic hit "Hound Dog."
"A Hound Dog Tale: Big Mama, Elvis, and the Song That Changed Everything" 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."
Student speakers set for fall commencement
Three fall graduates will serve as student speakers at their respective UNG commencement ceremonies Dec. 9-10 in the Convocation Center at UNG's Dahlonega Campus.
McCloy’s work recognized in Bellwethers exhibition
Alexandra McCloy’s “Living Patterns,” received the Lane Last award for Best in Show, in the Bellwethers Annual Juried Exhibition at the West Tennessee Regional Art Center put on by the University of Tennessee (UT) at Martin. Rachel Coggins and Maddie Engle also had pieces entered in the exhibition.
UNG formalizes its role with career expo
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UNG honors scholarship recipients in Blue Ridge
The Tomato Sandwich Supper held Nov. 6 at UNG's Blue Ridge Campus celebrated 24 scholarship recipients and showcased the transformational power of UNG's work.