Little Richard

Richard Wayne Penniman, better known as Little Richard, was born on December 5, 1932 in Macon, Georgia. He is an American singer-songwriter, musician and actor. Little Richard's career has spanned many genres of music including rock and roll, rhythm and blues, soul, doo-wop, gospel, show tunes, and blues. His hit singles include "Tutti Frutti" (1955), "Long Tall Sally" (1956), "Good Golly Miss Molly" (1958), "Lucille" (1957) and "The Girl Can't Help It" (1956).

Little Richard was raised in a religious household by his father Leva Mae and mother Charles “Bud” Penniman. Growing up in the south during the 1940s had its challenges for a young black man trying to make it big in the music industry. Little Richard found success early on when he began performing with bands throughout the south. In 1955 he signed with Specialty Records where he released his debut single “Tutti Frutti” which became an instant hit. The success of this single led to several other hits such as “Long Tall Sally” and “The Girl Can’t Help It” which further established him as one of the most popular rock stars at the time. 

In 1964 Little Richard retired from secular pop music to devote himself to Christianity and pursue a career in Gospel music. He returned back to Rock & Roll in 1984 with the release of his album “Lifetime Friend” which received critical acclaim from fans old and new alike. 

Little Richard has been honored with numerous awards throughout his career including induction into both the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as well as the Songwriters Hall of Fame. He is also credited with being one of the pioneers who helped bridge together various genres including rock & roll, rhythm & blues, pop and gospel.

<div id="" class="facts-item"><h3 id="" class="facts-title"><span class="facts-number">1.</span> Pioneered Rock 'n' Roll Music</h3><p id="" class="facts-text">Little Richard was a pioneering force in rock ‘n’ roll, helping to create the genre with his high-energy music and stage presence.</p></div>

    <div id="" class="facts-item"><h3 id="" class="facts-title"><span class="facts-number">2.</span> Started Singing in Church</h3><p id="" class="facts-text">Little Richard began singing in church as a young boy and was inspired by gospel music. He began playing the piano at age 7.</p></div>

    <div id="" class="facts-item"><h3 id="" class="facts-title"><span class="facts-number">3.</span> Achieved Success at Age 17</h3><p id="" class="facts-text">At age 17, Little Richard achieved success when he released his first single "Tutti Frutti" in 1955.</p></div>

    <div id="" class="facts-item"><h3 id="" class="facts-title"><span class="facts-number">4.</span> Released 32 Studio Albums</h3><p id="" class="facts-text">Little Richard released 32 studio albums between 1951 and 2018, becoming one of the most influential performers in American music history.</p></div>

    <div id="" class="facts-item"><h3 id="" class="facts-title"><span class="facts-number">5.</span> Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame</h3><p id="" class="facts-text">In 1986, Little Richard was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, honoring his contributions to the development of rock music.</p></div>