Music icon Little Richard is dead. The rock and roll pioneer tragically passed away at the age of 87 after a brief illness, reports TMZ. The singer is the latest icon to pass away in their 80s, as Maya Angelou died at age 86 in 2014. Meanwhile, Garry Marshall also died in his 80s in 2016.
According to the report, Little Richard died in his Tennessee home surrounded by his loved ones, which included his son, brother, and sister.
The singer’s bass guitarist, Charles Glenn, opened up to the outlet about his sad passing, revealing that he last spoke to the him in late March. However, he was unable to come and visit him due to the Covid-10 pandemic. Glenn reveals that Richard was like a father to him, and that he often called him his “son.”
Little Richard’s fans will remember him best for his energetic stage presence, eye-catching ensembles, and legendary voice. The singer produced hits such as “Good Golly Miss Molly,” “Send Me Some Lovin,'” and “Tutti-Frutti.”
Richard’s real name is Richard Wayne Penniman. He was born in 1932 during the economic depression. His road to stardom wasn’t an easy one as he was thrown out of his house by his ow father at the age of 13 due to his sexuality.
Richard first broke into the music business in 1951. He was later signed to a record deal where he began producing hits. He was inducted into the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame in 1986, and received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Academy of Recording Arts and Scienes in 1993.
Little Richard’s contributions to music will live on long after his death, as will his iconic music.