About the Song
“Little Sister” emerges as a vibrant rock and roll composition crafted by the collaborative genius of Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman. Originally unleashed as a single in 1961 by the iconic American singer Elvis Presley, it swiftly ascended to the No. 5 spot on the Billboard Hot 100, solidifying its place in the musical landscape. This single, sharing the spotlight as a double A-side with “(Marie’s the Name) His Latest Flame,” further triumphed by clinching the coveted No. 1 position on the UK Singles Chart—a testament to its global resonance.
In the intricate musical tapestry of “Little Sister,” the lead guitar prowess of Hank Garland, complemented by the rhythmic guitar stylings of Scotty Moore, creates a harmonious backdrop. The backing vocals, skillfully provided by the Jordanaires, feature the distinctive bass voice of Ray Walker, adding depth and character to Presley’s rendition.
Presley revisited the song in the 1970 rockumentary film “Elvis: That’s the Way It Is,” seamlessly weaving it into a medley with “Get Back,” showcasing the enduring allure of this rock and roll gem. Beyond Presley’s rendition, “Little Sister” found new life through covers by notable artists such as Dwight Yoakam, Robert Plant, The Nighthawks, and Pearl Jam. Notably, Ry Cooder’s rendition from his album “Bop Till You Drop” achieved the pinnacle of success, claiming the number-one spot in New Zealand.
Within the lyrical fabric of “Little Sister,” a nod to the past is evident with a mention of “Jim Dandy,” harking back to LaVern Baker’s 1956 tune by the same title. The musical narrative takes an intriguing turn with an answer song titled “Hey, Memphis,” recorded and released by Baker on Atlantic Records in September 1961—a delightful interplay of melodies with distinct lyrics.
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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
And say it’s very nice, and then you run
Little sister, don’t you do what your big sister does
Well, I dated your big sister, and I took her to a show
I went for some candy, along came Jim Dandy
And they snuck right out of the door
Little sister, don’t you-
Little sister, don’t you-
Little sister, don’t you kiss me once or twice
And say it’s very nice, and then you run
Little sister, don’t you do what your big sister does
Every 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 you
Little sister, don’t you-
Little sister, don’t you-
Little sister, don’t you kiss me once or twice
And say it’s very nice, and then you run
Little sister, don’t you do what your big sister does
Well, 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 toes
Little sister, don’t you-
Little sister, don’t you-
Little sister, don’t you kiss me once or twice
And say it’s very nice, and then you run
Little sister, don’t you do what your big sister does
Little sister, don’t you do what your big sister done
Little sister, don’t you do what your big sister done