While many hail Elvis Presley as the "King of Rock 'N Roll," Little Richard was one of the real innovators of that genre. With his trademark catchphrase "Shut up!," Little Richard was one the most electrifying and flamboyant musicians of the 1950's and 1960's.
When it came to live shows, Little Richard never left audiences disappointed. With fast finger and foot piano-playing, he was the act to not miss. He broke down musical racial barriers, with both black and white fans standing in his audience.
Born Richard Wayne Penniman in 1932, Little Richard grew up in a religious home and found his love for music in church. His musical influences included Marion Williams and Mahalia Jackson.
Richard got his first start in the music industry in the early 1950's when he won a talent contest, landing him a record deal. Although it wasn't until 1955, with the release of "Tutti Fruiti" is when he really gained commercial success. He would go on the record numerous material and hit songs including "Good Molly, Miss Molly," "Keep A Knockin'," and "The Girl Can't Help it" (recently sampled on Fergie's "Clumsy").
One of Little Richard's biggest fans were The Beatles. They idolized him, and when the Fab Four had the opportunity to meet him for the first time, they just wanted to touch his hands.
When it came to live shows, Little Richard never left audiences disappointed. With fast finger and foot piano-playing, he was the act to not miss. He broke down musical racial barriers, with both black and white fans standing in his audience.Born Richard Wayne Penniman in 1932, Little Richard grew up in a religious home and found his love for music in church. His musical influences included Marion Williams and Mahalia Jackson.
Richard got his first start in the music industry in the early 1950's when he won a talent contest, landing him a record deal. Although it wasn't until 1955, with the release of "Tutti Fruiti" is when he really gained commercial success. He would go on the record numerous material and hit songs including "Good Molly, Miss Molly," "Keep A Knockin'," and "The Girl Can't Help it" (recently sampled on Fergie's "Clumsy").
One of Little Richard's biggest fans were The Beatles. They idolized him, and when the Fab Four had the opportunity to meet him for the first time, they just wanted to touch his hands.
