“That’s Alright Mama” is a song that holds historical significance in the career of Elvis Presley. It is considered Elvis’s first commercial single and is often regarded as the birth of rock and roll. The song was recorded on July 5, 1954, at Sun Studio in Memphis, Tennessee.
Elvis Presley, along with guitarist Scotty Moore and bassist Bill Black, recorded the song during an impromptu jam session. The trio was experimenting with a blend of blues, country, and rhythm and blues, creating a sound that would later be recognized as rock and roll.
“That’s Alright Mama” was originally written and recorded by blues artist Arthur “Big Boy” Crudup in 1946. Elvis’s version, however, featured a faster tempo and a distinctive rockabilly flavor. The song’s energy and Elvis’s charismatic delivery helped it gain popularity, especially on local radio stations.
Released by Sun Records, “That’s Alright Mama” became a regional hit, marking the beginning of Elvis Presley’s rise to fame. The song’s success led to Elvis signing with RCA Records, and he went on to become one of the most influential figures in the history of popular music.