About the song
“Tutti Frutti,” a timeless anthem of rock and roll exuberance, emerged as a cultural phenomenon in 1955, catapulting its creator, Little Richard, into the spotlight. Penned by Little Richard himself alongside Dorothy LaBostrie, this vibrant composition marked his inaugural major hit, etching a pivotal moment in music history.
The song bursts forth with an infectious energy, famously opening with the exuberant refrain, often phonetically transcribed as “A-wop-bop-a-loo-mop-a-lop-bam-boom!” This playful vocalization, akin to a drum pattern in Little Richard’s mind, set the tone for a revolutionary sound that would redefine popular music. “Tutti Frutti” encapsulates the essence of early rock and roll, characterized by its electrifying volume, powerful vocal delivery, and an unmistakable rhythm that resonated with audiences worldwide.
Recognizing its profound impact, a distinguished panel of musicians ranked “Tutti Frutti” as the pinnacle of Mojo’s “The Top 100 Records That Changed The World” in 2007. It was lauded not just for its musical innovation but also as the definitive sound heralding the birth of rock and roll. The song’s induction into the U.S. Library of Congress National Recording Registry in 2009 further solidified its status, honoring its contribution as a harbinger of a new era in musical expression.
Rolling Stone magazine echoed this sentiment in April 2012, declaring the song’s iconic refrain as “the most inspired rock lyric ever recorded,” underscoring its enduring influence. Such recognition culminated in its enshrinement in the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1998, a testament to its enduring legacy and cultural significance.
Beyond its accolades and critical acclaim, “Tutti Frutti” remains a jubilant testament to Little Richard’s boundless creativity and trailblazing spirit. Its wild lyrics and irrepressible rhythm continue to captivate listeners, transcending generations to embody the spirit of rock and roll rebellion and innovation. As a cornerstone of musical history, “Tutti Frutti” not only shaped Little Richard’s career but also laid the groundwork for the future evolution of popular music, cementing its place as an indelible masterpiece of the genre.
Video
Lyrics
Wop bop a loo bop a lop bom bom
Tutti frutti, oh rootie
Tutti frutti, oh rootie
Tutti frutti, oh rootie
Tutti frutti, oh rootie
Tutti frutti, oh rootie
A wop bop a loo bop a lop ba ba
I got a gal, named Sue, she knows just what to do
I got a gal, named Sue, she knows just what to do
She rock to the East, she rock to the West
But she’s the gal that I love best
Tutti frutti, oh rootie
Tutti frutti, oh rootie, ooh
Tutti frutti, oh rootie
Tutti frutti, oh rootie
Tutti frutti, oh rootie
A wop bop a loo bop a lop bom bom
I got a gal, named Daisy, she almost drives me crazy
Got a gal, named Daisy, she almost drives me crazy
She knows how to love me, yes indeed
Boy you don’t know what she do to me
Tutti frutti, oh rootie
Tutti frutti, oh rootie, ooh
Tutti frutti, oh rootie
Tutti frutti, oh rootie
Tutti frutti, oh rootie
Wop bop a loo bop, ow
Oh tutti frutti, oh rootie
Tutti frutti, oh rootie, ooh
Tutti frutti, oh rootie
Tutti frutti, oh rootie
Tutti frutti, oh rootie
A wop bop a loo bop a lop bom bom
I got a gal, named Daisy, she almost drive me crazy
Got a gal, named Daisy, she almost drive me crazy
She knows how to love me, yes indeed
Boy you don’t know what she do to me
Tutti frutti, oh rootie
Tutti frutti, oh rootie, ooh
Tutti frutti, oh rootie
Tutti frutti, oh rootie
Tutti frutti, oh rootie
A wop bop a loo bop a lop bam boom