#14 Little Richard

Little Richard is a key figure in the transition from R&B to Rock n Roll. Like Jerry Lee Lewis, he combined R&B with Boogey Woogey for a distinctive sound. His over-the-top delivery and inflections foreshadowed 1970s funk. It could be argued that Richard was the first funk artist. In 1955, he hit the big time. In 1957, he became born again and went into the clergy. Eventually, he returned to rock and opened for the Beatles in 1962. Little Richard would not be able to reconcile religion and rock until the 1980s. The conflict cut deep and led to substance abuse. It probably hampered Richard’s career. Despite the conflict, Richard managed to score some hits into the 1970s. He still occasionally records and makes appearances.

Rock n Roll Moment: Richard quit Rock n Roll to become a preacher. He tossed all his gold into the river. What river? Only Richard knows.

Essential Little Richard:

Here’s Little Richard (1957)

Little Richard’s Top 10:
Tutti Frutti
Lucille
Long Tall Sally
Rip It Up
Slippin’ and Slidin’
Ready Teddy
The Girl Can’t Help It
Good Golly Miss Molly
Jenny Jenny
Keep A-Knockin’