That's why Collider decided to make a list of the "10 Most Underrated Classic Rock Artists of All Time" in an effort to prop up some forgotten heroes of the genre while recognizing all the challenges they might have faced and the accomplishments they were able to achieve despite them.
"Ahead, the stories of these oft-neglected kings and queens of rock and roll who inspired the likes of Little Richard, Buddy Holly, The Rolling Stones and countless others," Collider writes. "In these trailblazers' stories are the roots of modern rock music and even fandom culture."
Big Mama Thornton. Blues singer opens at the Colonial.https://www.gettyimages.com/detail/news-photo/big-mama-thornton-blues-singer-opens-at-the-colonial-news-photo/502519513?adppopup=true
But the No. 1 most underrated classic rock artist, according to Collider, is none other than the 1950s rock legend Willie Mae "Big Mama" Thornton. Thornton rarely ever receives the proper credit that she deserves for the impact she's had on rock music. Her powerful vocals on the 1952 iconic song "Hound Dog" was her biggest hit, and was later popularized by Elvis Presley when he recorded his own version of the song three years later.
Band leader Johnny Otis tags out Little Arthur Matthews as "Big Mama" Willie Mae Thornton umpires in circa 1956.Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
It's no secret that Thornton's race, gender and sexuality played a significant role in the way she was overlooked throughout the course of her career. Despite having immense talent and being a pioneer in the rock music world ), the lack of recognition she received at the time was a reflection of attitudes surrounding race in the 20th century and how it seeped into music as well.
(L-R) Aretha Franklin, Big Mama Thornton performing on the ABC tv series 'Omnibus'.Photo by Jim Britt /American Broadcasting Companies via Getty Images
But Big Mama Thornton's legacy continues to shine today. Doja Cat's single "Vegas" for the Elvis movie in 2022 sampled Thornton's "Hound Dog," with Thornton even appearing as a character in the film. In 2024, she was inducted posthumously into the Rock and Roll Music Hall of Fame.
Related: '80s Rocker's Health Concerns Force Cancellation of Several 2026 Tour Dates
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