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Little Richard

Live Performances by Little Richard

Little Richard - Ready Teddy Performance at The L.A. Sports Arena

The L.A. Sports Arena
Los Angeles, CA, United States

January 1, 1956 | Video Length: 2:13
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  • In early 1956, Little Richard was soaring in his career following a string of hit singles and rising fame in the rock and roll landscape. At this poin... Read Full Description >

    In early 1956, Little Richard was soaring in his career following a string of hit singles and rising fame in the rock and roll landscape. At this point, he had recently released his iconic album "Little Richard," which included classic tracks like "Tutti Frutti" and "Long Tall Sally." These songs not only defined his energetic performance style but also helped to shape the sound of rock and roll music. The live recording of "Ready Teddy" from the L.A. Sports Arena captures Little Richard's dynamic stage presence and raw energy, hallmarks of his performances that captivated audiences. Interestingly, during this time, he was known for his flamboyant style and powerful vocals, which contributed significantly to his status as a pioneer in the genre. This performance showcases his ability to engage fans and solidify his reputation as one of rock and roll's founding figures.

  • In January 1956, Little Richard was at a pivotal point in his career, having recently released his iconic single "Tutti Frutti," which was a major bre... Read Full Description >

    In January 1956, Little Richard was at a pivotal point in his career, having recently released his iconic single "Tutti Frutti," which was a major breakthrough for him and helped to establish rock and roll as a dominant genre. Following the success of "Tutti Frutti," he recorded "Rip It Up," showcased in the live performance from January 1, 1956. This song further exemplified Richard's influential style and paved the way for his subsequent hits. Notably, "Rip It Up" not only reached number one on the R&B Best Sellers chart for two weeks but also highlighted Richard's energetic performance style, characterized by flamboyant showmanship and wild piano playing. He was known for breaking cultural barriers in music during a time of significant social change, and this performance encapsulates the exuberance and risk-taking that made him an essential figure in rock history.

  • In 1956, when Little Richard delivered his iconic performance of "Long Tall Sally" in the film "Don't Knock the Rock," he was at a pivotal point in hi... Read Full Description >

    In 1956, when Little Richard delivered his iconic performance of "Long Tall Sally" in the film "Don't Knock the Rock," he was at a pivotal point in his career, having solidified his status as a rock and roll pioneer. Just before this live recording, he had released the influential album "Here’s Little Richard," which came out in 1957. This album contained hits that would define the genre, showcasing his energetic style and dynamic vocal range. "Long Tall Sally" itself had been a major success, marking a significant moment as it became one of his signature songs. Interestingly, Little Richard's flamboyant personality and performances played a crucial role in shaping rock and roll culture, influencing countless artists. His blend of gospel and rhythm and blues was revolutionary, and his music during this period helped pave the way for future generations in rock music.

  • In November 1963, during a period of significant transition in his career, Little Richard was showcasing his dynamic live performance abilities while ... Read Full Description >

    In November 1963, during a period of significant transition in his career, Little Richard was showcasing his dynamic live performance abilities while headlining a UK tour. Just prior to this live recording, Little Richard had released the album **"Little Richard Is Back (And There's a Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On)"** in 1964. This album marked his return to the music scene after taking a break from performing and recording in the late 1950s to focus on his religious beliefs. Notably, his appearance on the Granada TV show, where he performed alongside iconic acts like The Everly Brothers and a then-unknown band called The Rolling Stones, highlighted his enduring influence in rock and roll. This live performance captured the essence of Little Richard's energetic style and charisma, showcasing why he was regarded as one of the pioneers of rock music, solidifying his legacy during a crucial phase of his career.

  • In November 1966, during the recording of "Little Richard Live in Paris," the artist was experiencing a revival in his career, reconnecting with his r... Read Full Description >

    In November 1966, during the recording of "Little Richard Live in Paris," the artist was experiencing a revival in his career, reconnecting with his roots after a period of personal and professional turmoil. Just prior to this live performance, Little Richard had released the album "I'd Rather Be Late Than Never" in 1966, which featured tracks that showcased his vibrant rock and roll style. Interestingly, this concert was a momentous occasion for Little Richard as it marked his return to the European stage, where he enjoyed immense popularity in the 1950s and early 1960s. At this concert, he delivers electrifying renditions of classics like "Tutti Frutti" and "Good Golly Miss Molly," highlighting his indelible influence on the genre. This live performance underscored his status as a rock pioneer, igniting enthusiasm among both old and new fans alike.

Little Richard & Tom Jones - Rock and Roll Medley Performance

This Is Tom Jones!

January 1, 1969 | Video Length: 8:51
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  • In 1969, when Little Richard performed the live medley with Tom Jones on "This Is Tom Jones!", he was experiencing a significant phase in his career c... Read Full Description >

    In 1969, when Little Richard performed the live medley with Tom Jones on "This Is Tom Jones!", he was experiencing a significant phase in his career characterized by a resurgence in popularity. Prior to this recording, Richard had released "The Explosive Little Richard" in 1967, which showcased his dynamic style and charisma that defined rock and roll. The live performance reflects his enduring influence and appeal as he transitioned from his earlier pioneering years in the 1950s to a more contemporary audience bridging genres like soul and pop. Notably, Richard's flamboyant stage presence and powerful vocals were integral to the rock and roll movement, and his collaboration with Jones—a prominent pop figure—illustrated the continuing relevance of his artistry in mainstream entertainment. This performance also highlights Richard's ability to engage with new audiences while maintaining his signature high-energy style.

Little Richard Full Concert at Toronto Peace Festival

Peace Festival
Toronto, ON, Canada

August 31, 1969 | Video Length: 24:09
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  • In 1969, when Little Richard performed at the Toronto Peace Festival, he was experiencing a resurgence in his career following a period of personal an... Read Full Description >

    In 1969, when Little Richard performed at the Toronto Peace Festival, he was experiencing a resurgence in his career following a period of personal and professional challenges. Prior to this live recording, he had released the album "The Experiment" in 1969, which showcased his versatility as an artist. Notably, this live performance captured the signature energy and flamboyance that Richard was known for, blending rock and roll with elements of gospel and rhythm and blues. The late 1960s marked a time when Richard was reconnecting with his audience, having made a significant impact on the music scene in the 1950s. Interestingly, his performance at the Peace Festival was part of a larger movement that sought to promote love and unity during a tumultuous time in history, highlighting his role not just as a musician but also as a cultural icon.

Little Richard Performs 'Lucille' Live at Rock & Roll Revival, Toronto

Varsity Stadium
Toronto, ON, Canada

September 1, 1969 | Video Length: 2:51
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  • In September 1969, Little Richard performed live at the Rock & Roll Revival in Toronto, a significant event that showcased his enduring appeal in the ... Read Full Description >

    In September 1969, Little Richard performed live at the Rock & Roll Revival in Toronto, a significant event that showcased his enduring appeal in the rock music scene. By this time, he was navigating a resurgence after a period of relative decline throughout the 1960s. This revival came after he had released the album "Little Richard Is Back" in 1964, marking his return to the recording industry. Interestingly, Richard's dynamic performance style and fervent stage presence continued to captivate audiences, as evidenced by the energy of the Toronto crowd during his rendition of "Lucille." Additionally, around this period, Richard was trying to reclaim his spot in a music landscape that had shifted considerably, with the rise of new rock bands and changing musical tastes. His appearance at the festival emphasized his legacy as one of the pioneering figures of rock and roll, illustrating that his influence remained strong despite the changing times.

  • In 1969, the live recording featuring Little Richard on "This is Tom Jones" showcased the artist during a dynamic phase of his career, reflecting his ... Read Full Description >

    In 1969, the live recording featuring Little Richard on "This is Tom Jones" showcased the artist during a dynamic phase of his career, reflecting his resurgence in the music scene. Before this performance, Richard had released "The Rill Thing" in 1970, which marked a notable return to recording after a period of relative inconsistency in the late 1960s. This live medley encapsulates his energetic style and rock 'n' roll roots, featuring classic hits like "Jenny Jenny," "Rip It Up," and "Good Golly, Miss Molly." An interesting aspect of this performance is how it illustrates Richard's ability to captivate audiences across generations, bridging the gap between early rock 'n' roll and the contemporary pop landscape of the late 60s. His collaboration with Tom Jones on this show further emphasizes his enduring influence and versatility as an entertainer.

  • By January 1, 1972, when Little Richard performed at the London Rock & Roll Show, he was experiencing a career resurgence characterized by his re-emer... Read Full Description >

    By January 1, 1972, when Little Richard performed at the London Rock & Roll Show, he was experiencing a career resurgence characterized by his re-emergence into the rock scene after years of fluctuating popularity. Prior to this live recording, he released the album "The Second Coming" in 1970, which marked his return to the music industry after several years away. The live performance showcased his classic hits such as "Tutti Frutti" and "Good Golly Miss Molly," highlighting his undeniable charisma and energetic stage presence that had originally propelled him to fame in the 1950s. Notably, Little Richard was a pioneer of rock and roll, influencing countless artists, and his 1972 performance was a testament to his enduring legacy and the enduring appeal of his music. This event also emphasized the revival of rock and roll spirit during that era, as many veterans from the genre were reclaiming their place on stage.

Little Richard Live at The London Rock & Roll Show Performing Classic Hits

The London Rock & Roll Show
London, United Kingdom

January 1, 1972 | Video Length: 10:50
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  • In January 1972, when Little Richard performed at The London Rock & Roll Show, he was experiencing a resurgence in his career after several years of r... Read Full Description >

    In January 1972, when Little Richard performed at The London Rock & Roll Show, he was experiencing a resurgence in his career after several years of relative obscurity. Prior to this live recording, he released the album "The Second Coming" in 1970, which marked his return to the music scene with a mix of original tracks and re-recordings of his classic hits. Notably, during the London performance, he delivered iconic songs such as "Lucille," "Tutti Frutti," and "Good Golly Miss Molly," which were foundational to the rock and roll genre. This era also saw Little Richard embracing a new generation, contributing to the growing rock scene in the UK. His flamboyant performance style and energetic showmanship were pivotal in influencing subsequent rock artists, making the 1972 live recording a significant moment in his legacy. Additionally, this performance showcased his enduring appeal, captivating both old fans and new audiences alike.

  • In early 1972, when Little Richard performed "Rip It Up," he was in a period marked by a resurgence in his career. Prior to this live performance, he ... Read Full Description >

    In early 1972, when Little Richard performed "Rip It Up," he was in a period marked by a resurgence in his career. Prior to this live performance, he had released the album "Little Richard" in 1970, which featured a blend of rock and gospel influences, showcasing his dynamic vocal ability. This era was significant as Richard was stepping back into the spotlight after some time away from the mainstream music scene. His impactful performances during this time reignited his status as a pioneer of rock 'n' roll, influencing countless artists. Interestingly, this live recording captures not only his electrifying stage presence but also reflects his ability to connect with audiences through a blend of frenetic energy and heartfelt sound. Richard's gospel roots often infused his rock music, making his performances uniquely compelling and a true representation of his artistic contribution to American music.

Live Performance of 'Lucille' by Little Richard

January 1, 1973 | Video Length: 4:49
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  • In January 1973, during a vibrant period of his career, Little Richard performed "Lucille" live, showcasing his energetic style and vocal prowess. Pri... Read Full Description >

    In January 1973, during a vibrant period of his career, Little Richard performed "Lucille" live, showcasing his energetic style and vocal prowess. Prior to this live recording, he had released the album "The Second Coming" in 1970, marking his return to the music scene after a brief period away. Notably, by this time, Little Richard was solidifying his legacy as one of the pioneers of rock 'n' roll, known for his flamboyant personality and dynamic performances. The 1973 performance exemplified his enduring appeal and ability to captivate audiences, maintaining the high energy that defined his earlier works. It’s interesting to note that despite the ups and downs in his career, including shifts in musical direction and personal life, Richard remained a pivotal figure in the industry, as evidenced by the enthusiastic reception of his live shows during this era.

  • In January 1983, Little Richard's performance of "Someone Worse Off Than I Am" during the MDA Telethon showcased him at a pivotal time in his career, ... Read Full Description >

    In January 1983, Little Richard's performance of "Someone Worse Off Than I Am" during the MDA Telethon showcased him at a pivotal time in his career, which had seen a resurgence in the late '70s and early '80s. Prior to this live appearance, he released the album "Little Richard" in 1977, marking his return to recording after a significant hiatus from his earlier groundbreaking rock and roll career. This period was characterized by a renewed interest in his music, particularly as he embraced both his gospel roots and rock heritage. Notably, Little Richard's vibrant performance style and eccentric personality made him a standout figure in the music industry. His involvement in events like the MDA Telethon reflected his commitment not only to music but also to philanthropy, emphasizing the importance of supporting charitable causes. His presence at the telethon further cemented his status as a cultural icon.

Little Richard: Concert for UNICEF - Full Concert in Rome, Italy

Sports Palace
Rome, Italy

November 17, 1988 | Video Length: 52:22
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  • On November 17, 1988, Little Richard performed at the Concert for UNICEF in Rome, Italy, showcasing his impressive showmanship and powerful vocals. Th... Read Full Description >

    On November 17, 1988, Little Richard performed at the Concert for UNICEF in Rome, Italy, showcasing his impressive showmanship and powerful vocals. This live performance falls during a period of resurgence in Little Richard's career, following a lengthy hiatus from the music industry in the late 1970s. Just prior to this concert, he released the album "Lifetime Friend" in 1986, which marked his return to recording and featured a blend of gospel, rock, and soul. Little Richard was known for his flamboyant style and energetic performances, which were evident during this concert. It’s noteworthy that he also became an advocate for various causes, including UNICEF, underlining his commitment to philanthropy. This event not only highlighted his enduring influence in the music scene but also underscored his role as a prominent figure in the intersection of music and social issues.

Live Concert in Rome: Tribute to Legends - Little Richard & More

Rome, Italy

January 1, 1989 | Video Length: 8:53
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  • In January 1989, during a live performance in Rome, Italy, renowned rock and roll pioneer Little Richard was at a point in his career where he was re-... Read Full Description >

    In January 1989, during a live performance in Rome, Italy, renowned rock and roll pioneer Little Richard was at a point in his career where he was re-emerging into the spotlight after years of fluctuating prominence. This performance came shortly after the release of his album "Little Richard" in 1986 and before his 1992 album, “The Second Coming.” Notably, his contribution to rock and roll history is profound; he is often credited with helping popularize the genre with his explosive performances and distinctive sound. The 1989 concert featured an impressive lineup alongside legends like Fats Domino, B.B. King, and James Brown, emphasizing Richard's status as an enduring icon in the industry. Interestingly, despite the ups and downs of his career, Richard remained a vibrant performer, known for his flamboyant style and charismatic stage presence, which were on full display during this electrifying live event.

  • By January 1, 1989, when Little Richard performed "Great Gosh A'mighty" for the "Legends of Rock 'n' Roll" DVD in Italy, he was enjoying a resurgence ... Read Full Description >

    By January 1, 1989, when Little Richard performed "Great Gosh A'mighty" for the "Legends of Rock 'n' Roll" DVD in Italy, he was enjoying a resurgence in popularity, having returned to the music scene after a period of relative quiet. This performance came after the release of his album "Right From the Start" in 1986, which marked his official return to recording. His energetic style and flamboyant persona made him a key figure in the rock 'n' roll genre, and this concert not only showcased his timeless appeal but also aligned with the broader nostalgia for classic rock icons during the late 1980s. Interesting to note is that during this period, Little Richard continued to influence emerging rock artists and was celebrated as a pioneer, solidifying his legacy within the genre and attracting younger fans alongside veteran musicians like Bo Diddley, who also performed in the concert.

Little Richard Live in Sweden 1990 - Full Concert

January 1, 1990 | Video Length: 40:19
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  • In January 1990, Little Richard performed live in Sweden, showcasing his enduring energy and charisma. This performance occurred after a period of res... Read Full Description >

    In January 1990, Little Richard performed live in Sweden, showcasing his enduring energy and charisma. This performance occurred after a period of resurgence in his career during the late 1980s when he made notable appearances, including on television and in concerts. Prior to this live recording, he released the album "The Little Richard Collection" in 1989, which consisted of hits and served to reintroduce his music to a new generation. The 1990 concert features a mix of his classic songs such as "Tutti Frutti" and "Lucille," which underline his status as a pioneer of rock and roll. Interestingly, at this stage of his career, Little Richard was not just performing; he was actively credited with influencing a range of genres and younger artists, continually reaffirming his significance in the music industry. His vibrant performances in the '90s illustrated his ability to captivate audiences, reminding them of his legendary status.

Little Richard Live Performance at Rock & Roll Diamond Festival - Belgium

Rock & Roll Diamond Festival
Anvers, Belgium

January 1, 1992 | Video Length: 10:56
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  • In 1992, during the Rock & Roll Diamond Festival in Anvers, Belgium, Little Richard delivered a vibrant live performance that underscored his enduring... Read Full Description >

    In 1992, during the Rock & Roll Diamond Festival in Anvers, Belgium, Little Richard delivered a vibrant live performance that underscored his enduring legacy in rock and roll. By this time, he had already established himself as a pioneering artist with a string of influential hits from the 1950s and 60s, such as "Tutti Frutti" and "Long Tall Sally." Prior to this live recording, Little Richard's most recent album release was "The Shake It All About" in 1989, which marked a return to music after a hiatus. Interestingly, by the early 90s, he was also receiving significant recognition for his contributions to rock music, establishing a new generation of fans while celebrating the roots of his explosive performance style, characterized by his exuberant vocals and showmanship. This performance in Belgium illustrated his lasting impact and the continued relevance of his music in the rock genre.

Little Richard - Definitive Interview with Bob Costas

Cleveland, Ohio, United States

May 6, 1992 | Video Length: 18:50
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  • In 1992, when Little Richard appeared in an interview with Bob Costas, he was reflecting on a storied career that had seen significant ups and downs. ... Read Full Description >

    In 1992, when Little Richard appeared in an interview with Bob Costas, he was reflecting on a storied career that had seen significant ups and downs. At this time, he had recently released the album "Lifetime Friend" in 1986, which was his first studio album in over a decade, showcasing a blend of rock and pop influences. Interestingly, this period marked a resurgence for Little Richard, characterized by his commitment to his Christian faith and a return to music. The interview not only highlighted his pioneering role in rock and roll but also underscored his indelible influence on the genre, as he was often revered as one of its founding figures. Furthermore, during the interview, he candidly discussed both the challenges and the joyous moments of his career, reflecting on how his music transcended boundaries and inspired countless artists.

  • In the live recording from March 23, 1994, featuring Little Richard alongside Lloyd Price, the artist was in a phase of resurgence, coming off a caree... Read Full Description >

    In the live recording from March 23, 1994, featuring Little Richard alongside Lloyd Price, the artist was in a phase of resurgence, coming off a career that had seen several ups and downs. Just prior to this performance, Little Richard had released the album "Shake It All About" in 1992, which marked his return to recording after a lengthy hiatus. The 1994 live performance showcases his dynamic stage presence and vibrant style, which were pivotal in shaping rock 'n' roll. Notably, Little Richard was recognized as one of the genre's pioneers, known for his flamboyant performances and energetic vocals. This collaboration with Lloyd Price highlights Richard's connections to other influential musicians of the era, evidencing his continued relevance in the music scene during the '90s.

Little Richard Performs 'Tutti Frutti' | Concert for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
New York, NY, United States

January 1, 1995 | Video Length: 3:34
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  • In January 1995, Little Richard performed "Tutti Frutti" at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame concert, marking a significant moment in his storied career... Read Full Description >

    In January 1995, Little Richard performed "Tutti Frutti" at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame concert, marking a significant moment in his storied career. This performance came during a revival period where Richard was being recognized for his immense contributions to rock and roll, underscoring his influence as a pivotal figure in the genre's development. Prior to this live recording, Richard had released several albums, but the 1992 compilation "Little Richard: The Very Best of Little Richard" served to remind audiences of his classic hits and enduring legacy. Interestingly, Richard was not only famous for his music but also for his flamboyant personality and energetic performance style, which was on full display during this concert. His appearance at such a prestigious event further solidified his status as a rock and roll icon, celebrating both his past achievements and the cultural impact he continued to have.


Little Richard Performs 'Lucille' at MDA Telethon in Las Vegas

MDA Labor Day Telethon
Las Vegas, NV, United States

September 2, 2002 | Video Length: 4:00
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  • By September 2002, when Little Richard performed "Lucille" at the MDA Labor Day Telethon, he had been a prominent figure in the music industry for ove... Read Full Description >

    By September 2002, when Little Richard performed "Lucille" at the MDA Labor Day Telethon, he had been a prominent figure in the music industry for over four decades. This performance came after his 2001 album "Little Richard's Greatest Hits," a compilation that showcased his influential rock and roll sounds from the 1950s and 1960s. Despite being in a later stage of his career and having faced various personal and health challenges, Little Richard's appearance at the telethon exemplified his enduring vibrancy and charisma as a performer. He was not only celebrated for his music but also for his contributions to the cultural landscape, being one of the pioneers of rock and roll. His performance was part of a charity event, showcasing his commitment to philanthropy and the ongoing relevance of his artistry, even in the later years of his life.

Little Richard - Full Concert at Howard Theatre featuring Blueberry Hill and Bony Marony

Howard Theatre
Washington, DC, USA

June 16, 2012 | Video Length: 1:20:38
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  • On June 16, 2012, Little Richard performed live at the historic Howard Theatre in Washington, DC. At this stage of his career, Little Richard was cele... Read Full Description >

    On June 16, 2012, Little Richard performed live at the historic Howard Theatre in Washington, DC. At this stage of his career, Little Richard was celebrated as one of the pioneers of rock and roll, known for his flamboyant stage presence and powerful vocals. Prior to this performance, he had released a number of iconic tracks that greatly influenced the genre, but his last studio album, "Littlest Richard," came out in 2010, featuring new interpretations of his classic hits. The live recording showcases his enduring energy and charisma, which persisted even in his later years. Interestingly, during the performance, he pays homage to his roots with familiar songs like "Blueberry Hill" and "Bama Lama Bama Loo," reflecting his deep connection to the rock and roll tradition. This concert not only highlights his legacy but also marks the continued appreciation of his contributions to music, as he remains an enduring figure in the industry.

  • Little Richard's live performance history reflects a significant resurgence in his career during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Prior to his appearan... Read Full Description >

    Little Richard's live performance history reflects a significant resurgence in his career during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Prior to his appearance on "Saturday Night Live"—the event referenced in the video—he released the album "The King of Rock and Roll" in 1986. This period marked a revitalization of interest in his music, as he reconnected with audiences and younger generations. Notably, his exuberant style, flamboyant persona, and pioneering contributions to rock and roll had already cemented him as an icon. His appearance on SNL showcased not just his dynamic performance ability, but also his lasting influence on the genre, which has inspired countless artists. His return to mainstream television during this time highlights the enduring relevance of his work and the continued appreciation for his groundbreaking artistry, particularly in a landscape that began to embrace nostalgia for classic rock roots.