Little Richard – the Originator, the Emancipator and the Architect of Rock and Roll!

Exploding into the American consciousness in the mid-50's..."awop-bop-a-loo-mop-alop-bam-boom" ...he single-handedly laid the foundation and established the rules for a new musical form: rock and roll.

Born and raised in Macon, Georgia, Richard Wayne Penniman began singing in his local church choir while still a youngster. He signed with RCA Records in 1951 after winning a talent contest and released two singles.

Returning to his job washing dishes in a Greyhound bus station, Richard sent a demo to Specialty Records, a fledgling Los Angeles label. The song, "Tutti Frutti," was his catalyst for success and led to an uninterrupted run of smash hits: "Tutti Frutti," "Long Tall Sally," "Rip It Up," "Lucille," "Jenny, Jenny," "Keep A Knockin'," "Good Golly, Miss Molly" and "Ooh, My Soul."  By 1968 Little Richard had sold more than 32 million records internationally.

 When Little Richard left the industry spotlight for a self-imposed hiatus at the peak of his career, he remained in the consciousness of the legions of fans worldwide who confidently awaited his return. In 1985, he charged back onto the scene with rave reviews for a memorable appearance in the box office smash "Down and Out in Beverly Hills," which also launched his hit single, "Great Gosh A Mighty."

Richard was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986 and began a series of performances and appearances which have since surpassed his earlier success, encompassing recording projects, television, film, soundtracks and commercials.

He was honored with a star on the world-renowned Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1990. In 1993, he received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences. The following year he accepted the Rhythm & Blues Foundation's prestigious Pioneer Award. In 1997 He was presented with the distinguished Award of Merit at the American Music Awards in recognition of his contributions to and powerful influence on the music world.

Driven by a hard-to-match energy which lends credence to his "wild man of rock and roll" image, Little Richard continues to make his mark on music history, delighting fans worldwide with his unique blend of music, humor and caring.