Little Richard, born Richard Wayne Penniman on December 5, 1932, in Macon, Georgia, is a pioneering figure in the foundation of rock and roll. His flamboyant performance style, characterized by his frenetic piano playing and high-energy vocals, helped define the genre and inspired countless artists thereafter. Little Richard's breakthrough hit "Tutti Frutti," released in 1955, with its iconic opening cry of "A-wop-bop-a-loo-bop-a-wop-bam-boom!" heralded a new era in music, brimming with raw energy and an infectious rhythm that captured the attention of a generation poised for a cultural shift.

As a black artist in the racially segregated United States of the mid-20th century, Little Richard's music transcended racial barriers and played a significant role in the integration of popular music. His string of hits in the 1950s, including "Long Tall Sally," "Rip It Up," and "Good Golly Miss Molly," cemented his status as one of the founding fathers of rock. Beyond the footlights and screams of adoring fans, Little Richard's influence was profound, paving the way for future icons such as The Beatles, who famously opened for him during their early career, and Elvis Presley. His induction into the inaugural class of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986 was a testament to his indelible impact on the music industry. Despite the ups and downs of his career, including periodic breaks from music to pursue religious life, Little Richard's work continues to resonate, as seen in the numerous compilations and remastered releases that preserve his legacy for new generations.

Genres

Blues

Rock-and-roll

Rockabilly

Soul

Related Artists

Chuck Berry

Elvis Presley

Jerry Lee Lewis

Fats Domino

James Brown

Bo Diddley

Ray Charles

Buddy Holly

Sam Cooke

Roy Orbison

Screamin' Jay Hawkins

Carl Perkins

Latest Release

The Soul Of Little Richard

Little Richard

Album - 18 Tracks - Released June 3, 2024