Introduction:
”Little Sister” is a rock and roll song written by Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman. It was originally released as a single in 1961 by American singer Elvis Presley, who enjoyed a No. 5 hit with it on the Billboard Hot 100. The single (as a double A-side with “(Marie’s the Name) His Latest Flame”) also reached No. 1 in the UK Singles Chart. Lead guitar was played by Hank Garland and the rhythm guitar was played by Scotty Moore with backing vocals by the Jordanaires featuring the distinctive bass voice of Ray Walker. Presley performs it as part of a medley with “Get Back” in the 1970 rockumentary film Elvis: That’s the Way It Is. “Little Sister” would later be covered by such artists as Dwight Yoakam, Robert Plant, The Nighthawks and Pearl Jam. A version by Ry Cooder, from his album Bop Till You Drop, was a number-one hit in New Zealand. An answer song to “Little Sister” with the same melody but different lyrics was recorded and released under the title “Hey, Memphis” by LaVern Baker on Atlantic Records (Atlantic 2119-A) in September 1961.
In 1987, Dwight Yoakam included a cover of “Little Sister” on his album “Hillbilly Deluxe.” Yoakam’s rendition transformed the rock and roll classic into a country hit, showcasing his ability to bridge genres while honoring the song’s origins. His version was well-received, peaking at No. 7 on the Billboard Country Singles chart and demonstrating his knack for reinterpreting classic songs within a country framework.
The lyrics of “Little Sister” narrate a tale of love and betrayal. The protagonist reflects on a past relationship with an unfaithful older sister and cautions her younger sibling not to follow the same path. This narrative resonates universally, exploring themes of heartbreak and the hope for a more faithful love.
Yoakam’s cover of “Little Sister” is a testament to his artistic versatility and deep respect for musical heritage. By infusing the song with his distinctive honky-tonk style, he introduced it to a new generation of listeners, bridging the gap between rock and roll and country music. This rendition not only solidified his reputation as a formidable artist but also contributed to the enduring legacy of “Little Sister” in the tapestry of American music.