Stay Curious. Stay Connected.
MailNewsletters♡Donate Now
Sign up
*Password must be at least 8 characters and contain one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, one number and one symbol.
Already have an account?
By submitting, you consent that you are at least 18 years of age and to receive information about MPR's or APMG entities' programs and offerings. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about MPR, APMG entities, and its sponsors. You may opt-out at any time clicking the unsubscribe link at the bottom of any email communication. View our Privacy Policy.
Sign in to your profile
Forgot Password?
New to MPR News?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Reset Password

Enter the username on file and we'll send you a code to reset your password.

Still require assistance or not sure what your User Name is?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Email Verification

A verification code has been emailed to

Still awaiting the code?

60 years ago, Little Richard records 'Long Tall Sally'

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Log inCreate a free Account

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Show me!
Little Richard
Little Richard
Kris Connor | Getty Images 2011

Little Richard recorded "Long Tall Sally" 60 years ago. The song was a follow up to his breakthrough hit "Tutti Frutti."

Like many songs by African-American artists in those days, a cover version of "Tutti Frutti" was recorded by Pat Boone and became a hit.

In an attempt to prevent that from happening again, Little Richard and his producer constructed "Long Tall Sally" so that the words were sung so fast that they thought Boone wouldn't be able to keep up.

The effort didn't work. Pat Boone also released a cover version of "Long Tall Sally."