Little Richard

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• Genre: '50s Rock 'n' Roll
• Hometown: New Orleans

About

Some folks say that Little Richard invented rock 'n' roll. Others say Van Halen did, but those people usually smoke a pack of "Reds" a day and ride dirtbikes even though they're in their twenties and still carry a big comb in their back pockets. If Little Richard didn't invent rock 'n' roll, he's certainly responsible for reshaping its sound and style. By merging Gospel music with Cajun R&B and hyper Boogie-Woogie piano playing, Little Richard spawned a high-voltage, kinetic sound that has influenced everyone from Pat Boone to Jimi Hendrix, as well as almost every British Invasion band of the 1960s. Adrenaline-surged songs like "Tutti Frutti" and "Keep a Knockin" have been covered time and again by artists who appreciate and respect Little Richard's ongoing no-holds-barred electrifying performances and his uplifting, soulful songs. Anyone who has ever tried to sing along with one of his tunes has soon found out that it is nearly impossible to match Little Richard's elasticity and intensity. Just ask Cindy Crawford.

- Eric Shea