"Elvis inspired my sideburns, but Little Richard my vocals." --Lemmy

Motörhead's frontman revealed the motive behind his legendary mutton-chops and distinctive snarl, adding that Richard had the "most joyous" voice in all of rock 'n' roll.



Download Motörhead Songs

On This Date in 1932: Little Richard is born Richard Wayne Penniman in Macon, Ga.

The Almanac Advises for December 5: "It's easy to get lost in a crowd when you are small in stature. If you want to get noticed, try setting yourself apart by dressing in an interesting or colorful manner."

On This Date in 1957: During a tour of Australia, Little Richard announces he is quitting rock 'n' roll for religious reasons. He throws away all his jewelry to demonstrate his sincerity.

The Almanac Advises for October 12: "Many African-American musicians are rejecting the wearing of 'bling' out of solidarity with those fighting the export of 'conflict' or 'blood' diamonds from African nations such as Sierra Leone."

"I am the innovator. I am the originator. I am the emancipator. I am the architect of rock 'n' roll!"
-- Little Richard

Download Little Richard on iTunes

Proving they can still rock, legends John Fogerty, Jerry Lee Lewis and Little Richard took the stage at the Grammy Awards for a medley of classic favorites. The 'Cornerstone of Rock' montage was opened by the 62-year-old Fogerty -- his first time ever to perform at the Grammys. The 72-year-old Lewis was next, tickling the ivories on his classic 'Great Balls of Fire.' Then the cameras panned to another piano, where the 75-year-old Little Richard electrified the crowd with 'Good Golly, Miss Molly.' Fogerty's band backed all three players.

On This Date in 1986: The first group of inductees to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame -- Buddy Holly, Chuck Berry, Elvis Presley, Fats Domino, James Brown, Jerry Lee Lewis, Little Richard, Ray Charles, Sam Cooke and the Everly Brothers -- is officially accepted.

The Almanac Advises for January 23: "Upon being presented to and taking leave of royalty, it is customary for men to bow and women to curtsy. Address royalty as 'Your Majesty' or 'Your Royal Highness' at first, and from then on as 'sir' or 'ma'am.' Speak only when spoken to."

"Artist furthermore retains the right to distribute souvenir books (not programs) to the public free of charge. This book is the summary of Richard's moral belief." --Little Richard

Audience furthermore retains the right to leave souvenir books (not programs) scattered throughout the auditorium at the conclusion of the concert.