Little Richard, widely considered the pioneer of Rock ‘n’ Roll music, passed away at the age of 87.
His family confirmed that the icon passed away with his family in Tullahoma, Tennessee. The cause of his death was bone cancer.
His reputation in the industry was cemented when he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame back in 1986. His music inspired other legends such as Elvis Presley, The Beatles and Elton John who all said they learned and were inspired by Little Richard.
Richard’s hit song “Good Golly Miss Holly” came out in 1958. Other songs like “Tutti Frutti” and “Long Tall Sally” are also beloved by his fans. Throughout his career, he sold over 30 million records around the globe.
He enjoyed great popularity in the 1950s for his eye catching performances and outfits. His raspy voice and stage manners also helped him enthrall fans into the relative new genre of rock and roll. Perhaps his attitude on stage had to do with why he became a performer in the first place.
Born in 1932 as Richard Wayne Penniman, Richard had 11 other siblings. In an interview with the BBC before his death, the singer said that he started to play music because he wanted to be the special one out of all his siblings.
Throughout his career, he got the attention that he craved so much when he was young. His music proved popular across racial boundaries in an America that still segregated people based on race. Richards would perform in stages where his crowd members were segregated in the 50s.
Hailing from New Orleans, one of the most important musical legacies of Little Richard is laying the frameworks of Rock and Roll music. With other pioneers like Chuck Berry, he merged different musical styles to create a new style of music that would eventually dominate the scene in the following years.
Fellow musicians expressed their condolence and praised the great work that Little Richard is leaving behind. From former Beatle Ringo Starr to Sir Mick Jagger of the Rolling Stones fame, musicians who are legends themselves remembered Richard’s music and legacy.
Rest in Peace, we will remember you through the beautiful work that you leave behind with us. If you have any memories of Little Richard, please share them with us in the comments below!
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