By Yanely Lizarraga

In today’s music industry, the conversation around cultural appropriation and the ownership of musical styles is more prominent than ever. Artists are now held accountable for borrowing elements from other cultures, often leading to significant public scrutiny. This shift has been largely influenced by a growing awareness of social justice issues and the rise of cancel culture, which seeks to hold individuals and organizations accountable for perceived wrongdoing. 

Historically, music has always been a melting pot of influences, with genres evolving through cross-cultural exchanges. However, when artists appropriate music or styles without acknowledging their origins, it can lead to accusations of exploitation nowadays. For instance, when white artists have successfully adopted sounds rooted in Black culture, like rock and roll and hip hop, without giving credit to their origins, it raises questions about equity and representation. This dynamic can overshadow the contributions of the original artists, leading to a sense of injustice and cultural erasure.  

In the context of “Hound Dog,” Elvis Presley’s appropriation of Black musical traditions could spark discussions now about who gets credit and recognition in the music industry if it was released during this time. In Sheffield’s article, he shares that “Hound Dog” by Big Mama Thornton was said to have “had a massive hit in 1952 with this R&B belter, the first hit from the legendary writing team of Jerry Lieber and Mike Stoller. Her classic original hit comes in at #318 on the list. But “Hound Dog” became a cultural phenomenon, inspiring countless cover versions, answer songs, rewrites and sequels, in blues, pop, and country.”

Although he popularized the song, it was originally performed by Big Mama Thornton, whose version reflected the raw emotional power of rhythm and blues. The song lyric “You ain’t nothing but a hound dog” by Elvis Presley is the only common line used in Big Mama Thornton’s song, as well as the title of the song. 

Today, the narrative would likely emphasize Thornton’s contributions more heavily, highlighting the importance of acknowledging artists from marginalized backgrounds. Failure to do so could result in public backlash and calls for accountability, particularly on social media platforms where cancel culture thrives. 

Cancel culture has become a mechanism through which audiences express dissatisfaction with artists who fail to respect cultural boundaries. The implications of cancel culture extend beyond individual artists to the entire music industry, prompting labels and producers to reconsider how they promote and support talent. The pressure to avoid appropriation has led to a more cautious approach in music production, with an emphasis on collaboration and consultation with original artists and cultural representatives. This shift aims to foster genuine partnerships rather than exploitative relationships, enhancing respect for diverse musical traditions. While some argue that cancel culture can be overly punitive and stifle creativity, it also serves as a crucial tool for social change. By holding artists accountable, audiences can advocate for a music industry that is more equitable and inclusive. The ongoing dialogue surrounding appropriation encourages artists to engage with cultural history thoughtfully and respectfully, ultimately enriching the musical landscape. 

In conclusion, the ongoing discourse around cultural appropriation in the music industry highlights the complex interplay between artistic expression and social responsibility. As audiences increasingly demand accountability, the legacy of songs like “Hound Dog” serves as a powerful reminder of the need to recognize and honor the contributions of marginalized artists. This evolving landscape reflects a broader commitment to equity and representation, urging artists to engage with cultural histories in a manner that respects their origins. While the rise of cancel culture may present challenges, it also acts as a catalyst for positive change, fostering a more inclusive and collaborative music environment. By prioritizing genuine partnerships and amplifying diverse voices, the industry can work towards a future where creativity thrives alongside respect for cultural heritage.