Little Richard's Death Mourned by George Takei: 'Play the Keys Among the Stars'

Fans around the world are currently mourning the loss of a rock and roll legend. On Saturday, Rolling Stone reported that Little Richard had passed away at the age of 87. His cause of death is unknown. Following the news of his passing, many have taken to social media in order to offer some kind words regarding the late musician's lengthy career. George Takei has even issued a statement regarding Richard's passing in which he noted that he will be dearly missed.

On Twitter, Takei noted that Richard was known for his flamboyant stage persona as well as for his hits such as "Tutti Frutti." He will particularly miss Richard's "style and flair." The Star Trek actor ended his message by writing that the late musician will be missed by all of his fans around the world. Takei's statements will definitely ring true with the legions of other fans who are also mourning Richard's death.

Little Richard, who was known for his flamboyant and energetic performances, has died. This old "Tutti Fruitti" will miss his style and flair. Play the keys among the stars now, sir. You will be missed.

— George Takei (@GeorgeTakei) May 9, 2020

As previously mentioned, Rolling Stone reported that Richard, whose full name is Richard Wayne Penniman, had passed away on Saturday, with the news being confirmed by the late musician's son, Danny Penniman. The outlet reported that Richard enjoyed a lengthy career ever since he emerged on the scene in the 1950s. In 1956, he released one of his most popular tracks, "Tutti Frutti." Following that release, he came out with a slew of hits including "Long Tall Sally," "Lucille" and "Good Golly Miss Molly."

Richard is widely considered to be one of the pioneers of the rock and roll genre. Back in 1990 Rolling Stone interview, the musician even addressed his impact on the music industry. At the time, he opened up about his own inspirations and touched upon the idea of him being an "architect" of rock and roll.

"I was inspired by Mahalia Jackson, Roy Brown and a gospel group called Clara Ward and the Ward Singers and a guy by the name of Brother Joe May," he told the publication. "I got the holler that you hear me do – "woo-ooh-ooh" – from a lady named Marion Williams. And this thing you hear me do – "Lucille-uh" – I got that from Ruth Brown I used to like die way she'd sing, "Mama-uh, he treats your daughter mean." I put it all together." He added, "I really feel from the bottom of my heart that I am the inventor. If there was somebody else, I didn't know than, didn't hear them, haven't heard them. Not even to this day. So I say I'm the architect."