‘Marie’s the Name’: the 1961 Elvis hit that wouldn’t exist without Bo Diddley
Elvis Presley’s 1961 hit ‘(Marie’s the Name) His Latest Flame’ drew much of its musical drive from the distinctive rhythm associated with Bo Diddley. The article highlights how Diddley’s influence helped shape a major Presley record, illustrating the wider impact of Black rhythm and blues on mainstream rock and pop.
Written by Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman, the song was first recorded by Del Shannon before Presley released his better-known version in August 1961. Presley's recording paired the track with ‘Little Sister’, reached number one in the UK for four weeks and peaked at number four on the US Billboard Hot 100.
- Elvis’s 1961 hit used the signature Bo Diddley beat.
- The song was written by Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman.
- Presley’s version became a UK number one.