Big Mama Thornton died on this day in 1984. The blues singer — born in 1926 — was the first to record the hit song "Hound Dog," which became a hit three years later when Elvis covered it. She also wrote and recorded "Ball 'n' Chain," which was a huge success when Janis Joplin covered it. Take a moment to acknowledge a true original… And to recognize our sponsors, who help us pay the rent, eat and buy tampons and stuff. Special thanks to Chelsea Art Museum, AMC's Mad Men, Mighty Leaf Tea, Nextbook, Puma, SOAPNet and Starwood Hotels. We'll never let someone steal your thunder. Click here for information.

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