Little Richard Biography

American musician Little Richard was one of the most influential figures in America’s transition from R&B to rock ‘n’ roll. Also noted for his vast array of gospel music, he remains most known for singles such as “Good Golly, Miss Molly” and “Tutti Frutti.”

Reverend Richard Wayne Penniman, known popularly as Little Richard, was born December 5, 1932 in Macon, Georgia. His parents were Leva Mae Stewart and Charles “Bud” Penniman. His father was in the bootlegging business.

Born into a deeply religious household, Richard was always connected to the church. And it was through the church that Richard ultimately became connected to music. This held true for the entire family, as the Pennimans formed a musical group known as the Penniman Singers.

By the age of ten, Richard considered himself a kind of healer, and to that end, he traveled around his city administering gospel music along with his touch. Many swore Richard’s music helped their various ailments.

Developing his distinctive style early on (including the ostentatious clothing and signature “whooo”), Richard cites his early influences as Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Marion Williams, Mahalia Jackson, Billy Wright, Ruth Brown, and others.

By 1951, Richard was well on his way to notoriety when he entered and won an Atlanta talent contest. The top prize was a contract under RCA. When his father was tragically murdered the following year, however, he moved back to his home town and pursued music in a more subdued manner while comforting the family.

Managing to produce a record through Peacock Records, Richard’s music was largely ignored until 1955. But in that year, he was noticed by Art Rupe. Rupe intended to groom Richard into a competitor for artists such as Ray Charles, BB King, and Quincy Jones, but Richard’s career took a sharp turn when he jokingly performed a version of “Tutti Frutti.” Rupe’s discerning ear gauged that the song would be a hit, and it didn’t disappoint. Richard officially had his first successful single.

In short order, he released singles such as “Long Tall Sally,” “Rip It Up,” “Good Golly, Miss Molly,” and others. They proved so popular that several covers were done, most notably by Pat Boone and Bill Haley.

At the height of his fame, Richard was struck with the fear that rock ‘n’ roll and religion were incompatible. He left the popular genre and became a born again Christian. This abandonment of rock lasted until 1963. In that year, Richard toured with The Beatles and returned to his secular productions. The following year, he toured with The Rolling Stones. He is also noted around this time for taking a then-unknown Jimi Hendrix under his wing.

The late 70s saw yet another return to evangelism after the unexpected death of a beloved nephew.

By the 80s, Richard’s influence on music earned him a spot in the newly formed Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The exposure led to his career’s resurgence. In 1986, he pursued his interest in acting when he appeared in Down and Out in Beverly Hills with Nick Nolte, Bette Midler, and Richard Dreyfuss.

Continuing to pursue music, Richard is noted for collaborations with artists such as Jon Bon Jovi, Elton John, Jerry Lee Lewis, and many others.

In his personal life, he was married to Ernestine Campbell from 1959 to 1964. They had one child together before the divorce.

Richard’s romantic life has been marked by a tumultuous acceptance and rejection of a homosexual lifestyle.