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Wales Online
Wales Online
National
Anna Lewis

Legendary rocker Little Richard has died aged 87

Rock and roll legend Little Richard has died aged 87.

The singer, whose full name was Richard Penniman, was best known for hits including Tutti Frutti, Long Tall Sally and Good Golly, Miss Molly.

The legend died today, his son Danny Penniman told Rolling Stone. He had suffered from health issues for several years, including hip problems, a stroke and a heart attack.

After signing to Speciality Records in 1955, Little Richard became known for his elaborate style, including mascara and brightly coloured clothes.

He is credited with changing the face of music after shooting to fame, the Mirror reports.

Little Richard in 1985 (Mirrorpix)

Over the years his music inspired artists like Sir Elton John.

The Rocketman singer once told Rolling Stone: "I heard Little Richard and Jerry Lee Lewis, and that was it.

"I didn’t ever want to be anything else. I’m more of a Little Richard stylist than a Jerry Lee Lewis, I think. Jerry Lee is a very intricate piano player and very skillful, but Little Richard is more of a pounder."

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