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Little Richard – ‘Tutti Frutti’

61. Tutti Frutti – Little Richard – 1955 | Let's listen to all 1001 songs!

About the Song

Step back in time to the electrifying year of 1956, when the music world was forever changed by the explosive arrival of Little Richard’s “Tutti Frutti“. This groundbreaking track not only redefined the boundaries of rock and roll but also became a cultural phenomenon that continues to resonate with audiences decades later.

Little Richard, born Richard Wayne Penniman, was a force of nature whose flamboyant style and powerful vocals would influence generations of musicians to come. With “Tutti Frutti“, he unleashed a whirlwind of energy that took the music scene by storm. The song’s opening line, “A-wop-bop-a-loo-bop-a-lop-bam-boom!”, became an iconic battle cry of rock and roll, instantly recognizable and impossible to ignore.

What made “Tutti Frutti” so revolutionary was its perfect blend of rhythm and blues, gospel, and nascent rock and roll. Little Richard’s piano playing was nothing short of incendiary, with pounding keys that seemed to defy the laws of physics. His vocals were equally impressive, ranging from guttural growls to falsetto shrieks that sent shivers down listeners’ spines.

The song’s impact on popular culture cannot be overstated. It broke racial barriers at a time when segregation was still prevalent in the United States. “Tutti Frutti” appealed to both black and white audiences, helping to bridge the gap between different communities through the universal language of music.

Moreover, the track’s unbridled enthusiasm and suggestive lyrics (though toned down for radio play) challenged the conservative norms of the 1950s. It represented a rebellion against the status quo, giving voice to a new generation eager to break free from societal constraints.

Little Richard’s performance style, as showcased in “Tutti Frutti“, was equally revolutionary. His flamboyant attire, pancake makeup, and pompadour hairstyle created an androgynous image that would influence future artists like David Bowie and Prince. His energetic stage presence, complete with dancing atop his piano, set a new standard for live performances in rock and roll.

The legacy of “Tutti Frutti” extends far beyond its initial release. It has been covered by numerous artists, from Elvis Presley to Queen, and has been featured in countless films and television shows. The Library of Congress recognized its cultural significance by adding it to the National Recording Registry in 2010.

As we listen to “Tutti Frutti” today, we’re not just hearing a song; we’re experiencing a pivotal moment in music history. It’s a testament to the enduring power of rock and roll and a tribute to Little Richard’s unparalleled talent and influence. This two-minute-and-fifteen-second burst of pure energy continues to inspire and excite, reminding us of the transformative power of music.Little Richard | Biography, Music, Songs, & Facts | Britannica

Video

Lyrics: Tutti Frutti

Wop-bop-a-loo-mop alop-bom-bom
Tutti frutti, oh rutti
Tutti frutti, woo!
Tutti frutti, oh rutti
Tutti frutti, oh rutti
Tutti frutti, oh rutti
Awop-bop-a-loo-mop alop-bom-bomI got a girl named Sue
She knows just what to do
I got a girl named Sue
She knows just what to doShe rock to the east
She rock to the west
But she’s the girl that I love bestTutti frutti, oh rutti
Tutti frutti, woo!
Tutti frutti, oh rutti
Tutti frutti, oh rutti
Tutti frutti, oh rutti
Awop-bop-a-loo-mop alop-bom-bom

I got a girl named Daisy
She almost drive me crazy
I got a girl named Daisy
She almost drive me crazy

She knows how to love me
Yes, indeed
Boy, you don’t know what she do to me

Tutti frutti, oh rutti
Tutti frutti, woo!
Tutti frutti, oh rutti
Tutti frutti, oh rutti
Tutti frutti, oh rutti
Awop-bop-a-loo-mop, ow!

Oh, tutti frutti, oh rutti
Tutti frutti, woo!
Tutti frutti, oh rutti
Tutti frutti, oh rutti
Tutti frutti, oh rutti
Awop-bop-a-loo-mop alop-bom-bom

I got a girl named Daisy
She almost drive me crazy
I got a girl named Daisy
She almost drive me crazy

She knows how to love me
Yes, indeed
Boy, you don’t know what she do to me

Tutti frutti, oh rutti
Tutti frutti, woo!
Tutti frutti, oh rutti
Tutti frutti, oh rutti
Tutti frutti, oh rutti
Awop-bop-a-loo-mop alop-bam-boom

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