Song Details
- Artist
- Little Richard
- Album
- Here's Little Richard
- Released
- 1956
- Genre
- Rock & Roll
- Length
- 2:09
¶ Deep Analysis
"Long Tall Sally" was Little Richard's answer to the watered-down cover versions of his songs. He famously instructed the songwriter to make the lyrics go as fast as possible so Pat Boone wouldn't be able to sing it.
Supersonic Delivery
Richard's vocal performance is a marvel of speed and ferocity. He practically spits out the words "Have some fun tonight!" with an energy that is unparalleled in 1950s rock.
The song features one of the most famous saxophone solos in rock history (by Lee Allen) and drives forward with a relentless boogie-woogie piano rhythm.
@ History & Impact
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1
Beatles Influence
Paul McCartney was a massive fan and famously covered the song with The Beatles, often using it as their show closer. McCartney modeled his "rock voice" directly on Little Richard's screeches in this song.
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2
Crossover Hit
It reached #6 on the Pop charts and #1 on the R&B charts, proving that Richard's untamed style could succeed on its own terms.