About the song
Elvis Presley’s Little Sister is a rock and roll classic that showcases his signature blend of rhythm, energy, and charisma. Released in 1961 as a single, the song became an instant hit, reaching No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 1 on the Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart. Written by the legendary songwriting duo Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman, Little Sister is a prime example of the early 1960s rock sound that helped define Presley’s career during this period.
The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man who once dated an older sister but is now drawn to her younger sibling. With playful yet slightly mischievous storytelling, the song captures the youthful excitement of rock and roll. The driving guitar riff, played by Hank Garland, adds to the song’s infectious energy, while Presley’s confident vocal delivery gives it a rebellious edge. The recording session at RCA Studio B in Nashville featured some of the finest session musicians of the time, including guitarist Scotty Moore and drummer D.J. Fontana, both of whom played crucial roles in shaping Presley’s signature sound.
Little Sister was released as a double A-side single alongside (Marie’s the Name) His Latest Flame, another hit that further cemented Presley’s dominance on the charts. Over the years, the song has been covered by numerous artists, including Dwight Yoakam and Ry Cooder, proving its lasting appeal.
This song represents the raw and electrifying side of Elvis Presley’s music, a reminder of why he remains one of the most influential figures in rock and roll history. Whether heard in its original form or through later interpretations, Little Sister continues to be a favorite among fans of classic rock and Presley’s extensive catalog.
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Lyrics
Little sister, don’t you
Little sister, don’t you
Little sister, don’t you kiss me once or twice
Then say it’s very nice
And then you run
Little sister, don’t you
Do what your big sister doneWell, I dated your big sister
And took her to a show
I went for some candy
Along came Jim Dandy
And they snuck right out of the doorLittle sister, don’t you
Little sister, don’t you
Little sister, don’t you kiss me once or twice
Then say it’s very nice
And then you run
Little sister, don’t you
Do what your big sister doneEv’ry time I see your sister
Well she’s got somebody new
She’s mean and she’s evil
Like that old Boll Weevil
Guess I’ll try my luck with youLittle sister, don’t you
Little sister, don’t you
Little sister, don’t you kiss me once or twice
Then say it’s very nice
And then you run
Little sister, don’t you
Do what your big sister doneWell, I used to pull your pigtails
And pinch your turned-up nose
But you been a growin’
And baby, it’s been showin’
From your head down to your toesLittle sister, don’t you
Little sister, don’t you
Little sister, don’t you kiss me once or twice
Then say it’s very nice
And then you runLittle sister, don’t you
Do what your big sister done
