Introduction
“Tutti Frutti” is a seminal rock ‘n’ roll song that has left an indelible mark on music history. Originally recorded by Little Richard in 1955, the song is celebrated for its energetic rhythm and exuberant vocal style. Little Richard, born Richard Wayne Penniman, infused the track with his signature flamboyance, creating a sound that was both innovative and influential. The song’s opening cry, “A-wop-bop-a-loo-bop-a-lop-bam-boom,” became iconic, epitomizing the spirit of early rock ‘n’ roll. PitchforkYouTube+5The New Yorker+5Pitchfork+5Wikipedia, la enciclopedia libre+2Wikipedia+2Wikipedia – Die freie Enzyklopädie+2
Elvis Presley, recognizing the song’s appeal, recorded his version of “Tutti Frutti” on January 31, 1956, at RCA’s New York City studio. This session was part of his efforts to produce material for his debut album. Presley’s rendition maintained the high energy of the original while incorporating his unique vocal style. Notably, his version adjusted the original’s closing phrase to “A-wop-bop-a-loo-bop-a-lop-bam-boom” for every verse, finishing with “bam-boom” instead of “bom-bom.” Wikipedia
Presley’s “Tutti Frutti” was included on his self-titled debut album, “Elvis Presley,” released on March 23, 1956. The album played a pivotal role in catapulting Presley to stardom and is often regarded as a landmark in the history of rock music. Additionally, Presley’s version of “Tutti Frutti” was released as part of a four-track EP (RCA EPA-747) and as the B-side of “Blue Suede Shoes” (RCA 47–6636), which reached number 20 on the Billboard chart. Elvis Presley Wiki+2Wikipedia+2Songs That Saved Your Life | Substack+2
The inclusion of “Tutti Frutti” in Presley’s repertoire highlights the cross-pollination of musical influences during the birth of rock ‘n’ roll. By covering Little Richard’s song, Presley not only paid homage to the original artist but also helped introduce the track to a broader audience. This exchange between artists exemplifies the collaborative spirit that defined the era and contributed to the genre’s evolution.
For those interested in exploring Presley’s interpretation of “Tutti Frutti,” his 1956 recording offers a glimpse into the dynamic energy that characterized early rock ‘n’ roll performances.
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