Fabulous Little Richard

Little Richard's third album captured a singer building on his acknowledged style. He had forged a reputation based on undiluted R&B, typified on such expressive recordings as 'Tutti Frutti', 'Long Tall Sally' and 'Good Golly Miss Molly'. The Fabulous offered a wider musical perspective, although there was no denying the frantic fervour surrounding his versions of 'Kansas City' and 'Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On'. Such performances contrast with the more conciliatory 'Directly From My Heart', but the opportunity to broaden musical horizons suggested by this set was never fully taken up. In 1957 Richard denounced his work and joined the church, but although he later reversed that decision, this album closes his most creative period.