Musical News - Little Richard

Little Richard, who was often referred to as “The Innovator,” “The Originator, and the “Architect of Rock and Roll,” died on May 9, 2019 from bone cancer. He was 87 years old.

Richard Wayne Penniman was born on December 5, 1932 in Macon, GA to a religious family. He began singing in church at a very early age. By fifth grade, he played alto saxophone in his school’s marching band.

In 1947,  Richard began opening shows for Sister Rosetta Tharpe. He was inspired to play piano after hearing Ike Turner play “Rocket 88.” While still in high school, Richard left home and began performing in vaudeville shows.

Richard had his first hit in 1955, which was titled “Tutti Frutti” and sold a million copies. Other hits such as “Long Tall Sally” (1956), “Lucille” (1957), and “Good Golly Miss Molly” (1960) quickly followed.

In about 1958, Richard returned to his gospel roots and did not record secular music again until 1962.

 In 1986, Little  Richard was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. In 1993, he received a Grammy lifetime achievement award. He received so many accolades that it is difficult to name them all. He was well known for his flamboyant hairstyles, makeup, and clothes.

The story of Little Richard’s life was brought to the big screen in 2000, with Leon playing the lead role.

Richard was indubitably one of a kind. Although he had not performed publicly for some time before his death, he will never be forgotten.

 

Richard Wayne Penniman

(December 5, 1932 – May 9, 2020)