Little Richard, star of the first wave of rock’n’roll, has died aged 87.

His son, Daniel Penniman, confirmed the star’s death to Rolling Stone magazine, but said “the cause of the death was unknown.”

Richard, whose real name was Richard Penniman, had suffered a stroke and a heart attack in recent years.

3rd August 1972: Rock 'n' roll legend Little Richard in costume at an empty Wembley Stadium, during rehearsals for a concert. (Photo by Tim Graham/Evening Standard/Getty Images)

Richard’s music career began in the 1940s as a teenager, but it was not until nearly a decade later that he made headlines.

He signed with Speciality Records in 1955 and produced some of the most famous songs of the early rock’n’roll era - including Tutti Frutti, Rip It Up, and Lucille.

Richard’s performances were often controversial, as he intentionally blurred gender lines, wearing makeup and flamboyant clothes on stage.

His style would go on to influence countless other singers, including the late Prince and The Beatles.

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Rock’n’Roll star Little Richard dies aged 87

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