“Little Richard” born Richard Penniman, was an American musician, singer, and songwriter who is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the development of rock and roll music. With his explosive personality, flamboyant stage presence, and distinctive style of singing, Little Richard became a trailblazer in the genre of rock and roll and paved the way for countless other musicians who followed in his footsteps.
His music combined elements of blues, gospel, and boogie-woogie, creating a sound that was both innovative and energetic. Little Richard’s influence on rock and roll can be heard in the music of other legendary artists such as Elvis Presley, The Beatles, and The Rolling Stones.
Some of his most iconic songs include “Tutti Frutti,” “Long Tall Sally,” and “Good Golly, Miss Molly.” With his high-pitched vocals and electrifying performances, Little Richard was a force to be reckoned with in the music industry and helped to shape the sound of popular music for generations to come.
In this list of Little Richard’s top 10 songs, we will explore some of his most memorable and enduring hits that continue to inspire and entertain music lovers around the world.
1. “Tutti Frutti”
Tutti Frutti” is a classic rock and roll song by the legendary musician Little Richard. Released in 1955, the song is known for its infectious melody and upbeat lyrics, which capture the spirit of the early rock and roll era. The song’s catchy opening line “A-wop-bop-a-loo-mop-a-lop-bom-bom!” is instantly recognizable, and Little Richard’s energetic vocals and driving piano playing create a sense of excitement and fun that has made the song a timeless classic. The lyrics are playful and light-hearted, with Little Richard singing about the joys of dancing and partying.
2. “Lucille”
“Lucille” is a classic rock and roll song by the legendary musician Little Richard. Released in 1957, the song features Little Richard’s iconic, raspy vocals and driving piano playing, creating a high-energy and memorable track. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a woman named Lucille, with Little Richard pleading with her to come back to him. The song’s memorable chorus “Lucille, you won’t do your sister’s will, Lucille, you won’t do your sister’s will” has become a well-known refrain in rock and roll history. With its upbeat tempo and catchy lyrics, “Lucille” has become a staple of classic rock and roll, and its influence can be heard in numerous songs across the genre.
3. “Keep A-Knockin’”
Keep A-Knockin'” is a classic rock and roll song by the legendary musician Little Richard. Originally recorded in 1955, the song features Little Richard’s trademark energetic vocals and driving piano playing, creating a dynamic and memorable track. The song’s lyrics encourage the listener to keep knocking on the door, even when it’s closed, with Little Richard singing “You keep a-knockin’ but you can’t come in.” The song’s infectious rhythm and catchy chorus have made it a beloved classic in the rock and roll canon, with numerous artists covering the track over the years.
4. “Rip It Up”
“Rip It Up” is a classic rock and roll song by the legendary musician Little Richard. Originally released in 1956, the song is known for its fast-paced tempo and upbeat lyrics, creating a sense of excitement and energy that is characteristic of early rock and roll. The song’s memorable chorus “Rip it up, rip it up, gonna shake it up, gonna ball it up” has become a well-known refrain in rock and roll history. Little Richard’s iconic vocals and driving piano playing create a sense of joy and celebration, with the song encouraging the listener to let loose and have fun.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of rock and roll or a newcomer to the genre, “Rip It Up” is a song that is sure to get your blood pumping and your feet moving.
5. “Jenny, Jenny”
“Jenny, Jenny” is a classic rock and roll song by the legendary musician Little Richard. Originally released in 1957, the song features Little Richard’s iconic, raspy vocals and driving piano playing, creating a high-energy and memorable track. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a woman named Jenny, with Little Richard pleading with her to come back to him. The song’s memorable chorus “Jenny, Jenny, Jenny, won’t you come along with me, Jenny, Jenny, Jenny, won’t you come along and see” has become a well-known refrain in rock and roll history.
Whether you’re seeking comfort in difficult times or simply appreciate great music, “Crying in the Chapel” is a song that is sure to touch your heart.
6. “Ready Teddy”
“Ready Teddy” is a classic rock and roll song by the legendary musician Little Richard. Originally released in 1956, the song features Little Richard’s trademark energetic vocals and driving piano playing, creating a high-energy and memorable track. The song’s lyrics are playful and light-hearted, with Little Richard encouraging the listener to “get ready” for a good time. The song’s infectious rhythm and catchy chorus have made it a beloved classic in the rock and roll canon, with numerous artists covering the track over the years.
7. “That Girl Can’t Help It”
“That Girl Can’t Help It” is a classic rock and roll song by the legendary musician Little Richard. Originally released in 1957, the song features Little Richard’s signature energetic vocals and driving piano playing, creating an upbeat and catchy track. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a woman who simply can’t help but be irresistible to everyone around her. Little Richard’s dynamic performance on the track showcases his exceptional talent and showmanship, with his vocals and piano playing coming together to create a sense of excitement and joy. The song’s infectious rhythm and memorable chorus have made it a beloved classic in the rock and roll canon, and its influence can be heard in countless songs across the genre.
8. “Slippin’ and Slidin’” /h2>
“Slippin’ and Slidin'” is a classic rock and roll song by the legendary musician Little Richard. Originally released in 1956, the song features Little Richard’s signature energetic vocals and driving piano playing, creating an upbeat and catchy track. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man who is struggling to keep his love interest by his side, with Little Richard using his powerful voice to convey the song’s sense of urgency and desperation. The song’s memorable chorus “Slippin’ and slidin’, peepin’ and hidin’, been told a long time ago” has become a well-known refrain in rock and roll history. With its infectious rhythm and memorable melody, “Slippin’ and Slidin'” has become a staple of classic rock and roll, and its influence can be heard in numerous songs across the genre.
9. “Long Tall Sally”
Long Tall Sally” is a classic rock and roll song by the legendary musician Little Richard. Originally released in 1956, the song features Little Richard’s signature energetic vocals and driving piano playing, creating an upbeat and catchy track. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a woman who is tall, thin, and full of energy, with Little Richard using his powerful voice to convey the song’s sense of excitement and fun. The song’s memorable chorus “Long tall Sally, she’s built for speed, she’s got everything that Uncle John needs” has become a well-known refrain in rock and roll history. With its infectious rhythm and memorable melody, “Long Tall Sally” has become a staple of classic rock and roll, and its influence can be heard in numerous songs across the genre.
10.“Good Golly Miss Molly”
“Good Golly Miss Molly” is a classic rock and roll song by the legendary musician Little Richard. Originally released in 1958, the song features Little Richard’s signature energetic vocals and driving piano playing, creating an upbeat and catchy track. The song’s lyrics celebrate a woman who is wild, fun, and full of energy, with Little Richard using his powerful voice to convey the song’s sense of joy and excitement. The song’s memorable chorus “Good golly, Miss Molly, sure like to ball” has become a well-known refrain in rock and roll history. With its infectious rhythm and memorable melody, “Good Golly Miss Molly” has become a beloved classic in the rock and roll canon, and its influence can be heard in countless songs across the genre.
