Little Richard - 18 Greatest Hits
Because they miss part of the defining equation--Little Richard's rhythm & blues were never influenced by country & western the way Elvis', Chuck Berry's and Fats Domino's were--it's not really accurate to call these singles the birth of rock & roll, despite what Richard himself will tell you. But what is rock & roll here is the insane, over-the-top, in-your-face attitude that Richard pours into every word and every thrilling gospel "Woo!" It's that attitude that leaves amazing, manic records like "Long Tall Sally," "All Around The World," and the great "Lucille" still standing as among the most memorable music ever made.--David Cantwell