Rock and Roll pioneer Little Richard passed away today at the age of 87 from cancer. His death was confirmed by his pastor and his son.

LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL, Little Richard (seated), 1973

 

Little Richard set a template with his unique style of singing and gender-bending persona that influenced a generation of artists like David Bowie, Elton John and Prince to name a few. His sense of style and showmanship on stage paved the way for rock and rollers who wanted to stand out.

After breaking out into the music scene with his hit Tutti Futti in 1956, Little Richard quickly pumped out more hits with Long Tall Sally and Rip It Up that same year. In the following two years he released Lucille and Good Golly Miss Molly.

As one of the first 10 performers inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986, Little Richard will forever be remembered as a legend of Rock.