Little Richard: See Photos Of The Rock And Roll Legend

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April 11, 2023 11:36AM EDT

Little Richard was an early rockstar, known for songs like ‘Tutti Frutti.’ Check out photos of him here.

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Little Richard

Little Richard — Little Richard was one of the most important figures in rock music. As an early “architect of rock and roll,” Richard (born Richard Wayne Penniman) rose to fame as one of the earliest people creating the music that’s now become a major genre. Known for his howling voice, energetic performances, and colorful outfits, Richard rose to success with hits like ‘Tutti Frutti’ and ‘Long Tall Sally.’ His music and performances went on to inspire many artists who came after him like The Beatles and Rolling Stones.

Richard did step away from his status as a pop figure on a few occasions. Besides his pioneering rock music, he was also deeply religious. On occasion, he would retire from music and re-dedicate himself to the church. In his final days, he was known to regularly attend mass and he was deeply religious.

Scroll through our gallery to check out photos of Little Richard through the years

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Little Richard

Little Richard — Little Richard had numerous hit songs. Later in life, he received a number of acknowledgements of his major contributions to music, including an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

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Little Richard At Granada Studios

Little Richard At Granada Studios — Despite his early fame being in the 50s, Little Richard continued making music into the 60s. He recorded a gospel record in 1961, and he later returned to rock and roll with 1965’s ‘Little Richard is Back.’

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Little Richard At The Apollo Theater

Little Richard At The Apollo Theater — Little Richard poses with Boy George of Culture Club at the Apollo Theater in Harlem in 1985. Both singers have been well-known for their flamboyant sense of style.

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Little Richard Performs In Las Vegas

Little Richard Performs In Las Vegas — Little Richard continued performing into the 2010s. He smiled as he took the stage in Las Vegas for a 2013 ‘Viva Las Vegas Rockabilly Weekend.’

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