The 1953 candidates in What Was the First Rock ‘n’ Roll Record? by Jim Dawson and Steve Propes are:

• “Kaw-Liga” by Hank Williams and the Drifting Cowboys
• “Hound Dog” by Big Mama Willie Mae Thornton with Kansas City Bill
• “Honey Hush” by Big Joe Turner
• “Money Honey” by the Clovers
• “Gee” by the Crows