Every major rock star begins their journey as a student of the genre. Before creating great albums, they often immerse themselves in a rich record collection, drawing inspiration long before picking up a guitar or stepping behind the microphone. For John Lennon, who started learning banjo chords from his mother, the moment he encountered a certain rock pioneer, he knew he was on to something special.
Let’s dispel the myth that every pre-Beatles rock act sounded the same. While many had roots in blues music, they explored a variety of avenues beyond the basic three chords, seeking respect from audiences who just wanted to dance.
Chuck Berry stands out as the first true guitar hero, known for his ability to mix things up. The diminished chords that open “No Particular Place to Go” certainly influenced young Lennon and Paul McCartney. However, it was also artists like Buddy Holly, with original hits such as “Peggy Sue” and “That’ll Be the Day,” that captured their attention.
Elvis Presley must also be mentioned. As a performer, he embodied the frontman that everyone craved. Despite his often-lackluster guitar skills, his dynamic stage presence made fans swoon and scream.
But when it comes to raw energy, no one surpassed Little Richard. His style echoed Berry’s but with a uniquely electrifying flair. Little Richard was the androgynous pinup star, captivating audiences with his husky vocal delivery and exuberant performances.
Lennon was just beginning to navigate his musical path when Richard performed in Hamburg, and he admitted to being a fanboy.
“We used to stand backstage at Hamburg’s Star Club and watch Little Richard play. He used to read from the Bible backstage, and we’d sit around and listen. I still love him; he’s one of the greatest,” Lennon recalled.
Little Richard’s repertoire was exceptional. While Berry could become repetitive, Richard’s tracks like “Long Tall Sally” and “Keep A-Knockin’” resonated deeply, setting the stage for future rock legends like Robert Plant and Chris Cornell with their visceral delivery.
Though McCartney could match Richard’s vocal intensity, Lennon consistently praised the rock icon. After all, anyone trying to create a rock and roll classic will always find themselves in the shadow of “Tutti Frutti.”
