Sir Elton John pays tribute to "biggest influence" Little Richard

By Neil Wilkes, Editor-in-chief

Published: May 10 2020 | 01:31

Last updated: May 10 2020 | 12:59

Sir Elton John pays tribute to rock 'n' roll pioneer Little Richard following his death at the age of 87.

Sir Elton John has paid a touching tribute to Little Richard after the rock 'n' roll legend's death at the age of 87.

The self-styled "king and queen of rock 'n' roll" passed away on Saturday after a career spanning seven decades which saw him have hits with songs including 'Tutti Frutti' and 'Good Golly Miss Molly'.

Richard was hugely influential for a slew of artists including The Beatles, the Rolling Stones, David Bowie and Sir Elton, who took to Instagram to post a eulogy.

"Without a doubt - musically, vocally and visually - he was my biggest influence," he wrote. "Seeing him live in my teens was the most exciting event in my life at that point.

"He influenced so many and is irreplaceable. A true legend, icon and a force of nature."

View this post on Instagram

Without a doubt - musically, vocally and visually - he was my biggest influence. Seeing him live in my teens was the most exciting event in my life at that point. Goosebumps, electricity and joy came from every pore. His records still sound fresh and the opening few seconds of "Tutti Frutti" are the most explosive in music history. I was lucky enough to work with him for my "Duets" album in 1993. He was shy and funny and I was SO nervous. The track we recorded "The Power" is a favourite in my catalogue. We also played live at the Beverly Hilton and I felt like I'd died and gone to heaven. He influenced so many and is irreplaceable. A true legend, icon and a force of nature. #RIP Little Richard Love, Elton x #LittleRichard

A post shared by Elton John (@eltonjohn) on May 9, 2020 at 10:08am PDT