The Meaning Behind The Song: Tutti Frutti by Little Richard
Little Richard’s Tutti Frutti is a classic rock and roll song that has been played countless times since it was released in 1955. It was a hit and became a staple of early rock and roll music. But what is the meaning behind the song? What inspired Little Richard to write this iconic song? Let’s take a closer look.
The Lyrics
The lyrics of Tutti Frutti are typical of early rock and roll music, with a focus on fun, dancing, and partying. The chorus repeats the simple refrain “Tutti Frutti, oh Rudy!”, while the verses talk about dancing, kissing, and other teenage activities. The lyrics were intentionally nonsensical, with words like “awopbopaloobop alopbamboom” – which added to the sense of wild abandon that the song sought to convey.
The Inspiration Behind the Song
Little Richard has said that the inspiration behind Tutti Frutti came from a phrase he used to say on stage in his early days. He would say “a-wop-bop-a-loo-mop-a-lop-bam-boom!”, which was his way of getting the crowd revved up. He also drew inspiration from the songs and style of two other early rock and roll pioneers: Fats Domino and Esquerita.
But there was more to the song than just its catchy beat and nonsensical lyrics. In an interview, Little Richard said that he intended the song to be about a girl who was “loose” and liked to have fun. He said that the phrase “Tutti Frutti” was his way of referring to the girl’s genitals. This interpretation of the song has been debated by music critics and fans over the years, with some arguing that it is a harmless song about having fun, while others see it as a more risqué song with sexual undertones.
Impact on Rock and Roll
Regardless of its interpretation, Tutti Frutti had a profound impact on the world of rock and roll. It was one of the first songs to combine elements of rhythm and blues with a fast tempo and simple, catchy lyrics. The song was a hit, reaching number two on the R&B charts and number 21 on the pop charts.
Tutti Frutti also helped launch Little Richard’s career. He became a major star and a frequent performer on television shows like The Ed Sullivan Show and American Bandstand. His wild stage presence and flamboyant costumes helped set the tone for other rock and roll performers to come.
The Song’s Legacy
Tutti Frutti has been covered by countless artists over the years, including Elvis Presley, The Beatles, and even Pat Boone. It has been featured in movies, TV shows, and commercials, and has become a standard of rock and roll music. The song’s simple, catchy melody and upbeat lyrics continue to inspire new generations of musicians.
But the song’s legacy goes beyond just its musical influence. Little Richard’s flamboyant stage presence and willingness to challenge societal norms helped pave the way for other artists who wanted to express themselves in new and unconventional ways. His impact on the world of music and culture cannot be overstated.
In Conclusion
Tutti Frutti may have been a simple song with nonsensical lyrics, but it had a profound impact on the world of rock and roll. From its infectious beat to its wild stage presence, the song helped launch Little Richard’s career and set the tone for a new era of music. Its legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians and serves as a testament to the power of music to transcend cultural boundaries and connect people from all walks of life.
