Many have claimed (including Little Richard himself) that is was Little Richard (and not Elvis) who was the true architect of Rock and Roll. Little Richard may very well be that man, and when James Brown calls you his idol, you know that the man was important. Had Richard not gone into Gospel music at the height of his career, his already impressive legacy would be even greater than it is now.
The man who was dubbed “Mr. Personality” charted on the R&B charts multiple times over a twenty five year period. He may not have been the top star at any point in time, but he did have a consistent Hall of Fame worthy career.
A Folk Rock band with a feel good sound, the Lovin’ Spoonful was a surprisingly successful Pop success and their happy songs of the 60’s still are fun today.
Lynyrd Skynyrd may be the definition of Southern Rock. Their down home Country crossed with Rock approach has left a long list of songs that still resonate across the South an Classic Rock radio stations today.