Little Richard, born Richard Wayne Penniman in 1932, was a pioneer of rock and roll music. His electrifying performances and flamboyant style paved the way for countless artists in the genre, and his influence can still be heard in music today. With hits like “Tutti Frutti,” “Good Golly Miss Molly,” and “Long Tall Sally,” Little Richard’s music captured the spirit of the times and inspired a generation of musicians.
In this article, we’ll be counting down the top 10 best Little Richard songs of all time. From his early hits in the 1950s to his later work in the 1980s, we’ll be taking a deep dive into the music that made Little Richard a legend. We’ll explore the history and context of each song, examining the lyrics and instrumentation that helped make them so iconic. We’ll also look at how these songs have influenced other musicians over the years, and why they continue to be celebrated today.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Little Richard or a newcomer to his music, this article is sure to be a treat. So sit back, turn up the volume, and get ready to rock and roll with the top 10 best Little Richard songs of all time.
1. Long Tall Sally
“Long Tall Sally” is a classic rock and roll song performed by Little Richard. Released in 1956, the song is about a girl named Sally who is tall and has a lot of energy. With its catchy guitar riff and energetic piano playing, the song quickly became a hit, reaching number one on the R&B charts and peaking at number six on the pop charts. The lyrics describe Sally’s wild and free-spirited nature, with Little Richard singing, “She’s built for speed, she’s got everything a man needs.” The song has been covered by numerous artists and is considered a quintessential rock and roll classic.
2. Lucille
“Lucille” is a rock and roll classic that was released by Little Richard in 1957. The song tells the story of a man who has lost his lover, Lucille, and is desperate to win her back. Little Richard’s raw and energetic vocals, coupled with the driving beat of the song, create a sense of urgency and passion that perfectly captures the desperation of the protagonist. The song features a memorable guitar riff and a catchy chorus that has been covered by countless artists over the years. “Lucille” is a true rock and roll classic that showcases Little Richard’s talent as a songwriter and performer.
3. Tutti Frutti
“Tutti Frutti” is a groundbreaking rock and roll song that was released by Little Richard in 1955. The song’s raucous energy and catchy lyrics made it an instant hit, and it has since become one of the most iconic songs in rock and roll history. Little Richard’s explosive vocals, backed by a driving rhythm section and saxophone, create a sense of joy and abandon that perfectly captures the spirit of rock and roll. The song’s lyrics, which were originally considered controversial, have since become a beloved part of rock and roll mythology. “Tutti Frutti” is a true classic that continues to inspire and influence musicians to this day.
4. Keep A-Knockin’ (But You Can’t Come In)
“Keep A-Knockin’ (But You Can’t Come In)” is a classic rock and roll song that was released by Little Richard in 1957. The song’s infectious beat, catchy lyrics, and Little Richard’s signature vocal style make it a standout in his catalog. The lyrics tell the story of a man who won’t let an ex-lover back into his life, no matter how hard she tries. The song’s driving rhythm, punctuated by the sound of Little Richard pounding on the piano, creates a sense of urgency and excitement that is impossible to resist. “Keep A-Knockin'” is a quintessential rock and roll song that has stood the test of time and remains a beloved classic to this day.
5. The Girl Can’t Help It
“The Girl Can’t Help It” is a rock and roll classic that was released by Little Richard in 1956. The song was originally written as the title track for a film of the same name, and it showcases Little Richard’s signature style of driving rhythms, catchy hooks, and soulful vocals. The lyrics describe a woman who can’t help but attract attention wherever she goes, and Little Richard’s exuberant delivery perfectly captures the song’s sense of excitement and energy. “The Girl Can’t Help It” is a quintessential rock and roll song that has been covered by countless artists over the years and remains a beloved classic to this day.
6. Rip It Up
“Rip It Up” is a rock and roll classic that was released by Little Richard in 1956. The song’s driving beat, catchy lyrics, and Little Richard’s signature vocal style make it an instant classic. The lyrics encourage listeners to let loose and have a good time, and Little Richard’s explosive delivery perfectly captures the song’s sense of energy and excitement. “Rip It Up” features a memorable guitar riff and a saxophone solo that add to the song’s infectious groove. The song has since become a rock and roll standard and has been covered by countless artists over the years. “Rip It Up” is a true classic that captures the spirit of rock and roll in its purest form.
7. Slippin’ And Slidin’
“Slippin’ and Slidin'” is a classic rock and roll song that was released by Little Richard in 1956. The song’s infectious rhythm, catchy lyrics, and Little Richard’s soulful vocals make it a standout in his catalog. The lyrics describe the ups and downs of love, and Little Richard’s passionate delivery perfectly captures the song’s emotional intensity. “Slippin’ and Slidin'” features a memorable guitar riff and a saxophone solo that add to the song’s irresistible groove. The song has since become a rock and roll standard and has been covered by countless artists over the years. “Slippin’ and Slidin'” is a true classic that showcases Little Richard’s talent as a songwriter and performer.
8. Ready Teddy
“Ready Teddy” is a high-energy rock and roll song that was released by Little Richard in 1956. The song’s driving beat, catchy lyrics, and Little Richard’s signature vocal style make it an instant classic. The lyrics encourage listeners to get up and dance, and Little Richard’s explosive delivery perfectly captures the song’s sense of excitement and fun. “Ready Teddy” features a memorable guitar riff and a saxophone solo that add to the song’s infectious groove. The song has since become a rock and roll standard and has been covered by countless artists over the years. “Ready Teddy” is a true classic that captures the spirit of rock and roll in its purest form.
9. Jenny, Jenny
“Jenny, Jenny” is a rock and roll classic that was released by Little Richard in 1957. The song’s catchy chorus, driving beat, and Little Richard’s soulful vocals make it a standout in his catalog. The lyrics describe a man who is desperately trying to reach his lover, Jenny, and Little Richard’s passionate delivery perfectly captures the song’s sense of urgency and longing. “Jenny, Jenny” features a memorable guitar riff and a saxophone solo that add to the song’s irresistible groove. The song has since become a rock and roll standard and has been covered by countless artists over the years. “Jenny, Jenny” is a true classic that showcases Little Richard’s talent as a songwriter and performer.
10. Bama Lama Bama Loo
“Bama Lama Bama Loo” is a high-energy rock and roll song that was released by Little Richard in 1964. The song’s infectious beat, catchy lyrics, and Little Richard’s signature vocal style make it a standout in his later work. The lyrics describe a woman who is irresistible to everyone around her, and Little Richard’s passionate delivery perfectly captures the song’s sense of excitement and desire. “Bama Lama Bama Loo” features a memorable guitar riff and a horn section that add to the song’s infectious groove. The song has since become a rock and roll classic and has been covered by numerous artists over the years. “Bama Lama Bama Loo” is a true gem in Little Richard’s discography, showcasing his talent as a songwriter and performer even in the later years of his career.
