Little Richard: I Am Everything

A wop bop a loo bop, a lop bam boo! Lisa Cortés (“All In: The Fight for Democracy”) turns up the jukebox on queer artist and rock ‘n’ roll icon Little Richard, exploring the path he trailblazed through the 20th century and the struggles he faced against an industry dead-set on whitewashing his music. —M.G.

An unfamiliar departure from post-WWII blues artists, Little Richard brought a sound and style unlike any before him and officially ushered in the era of rock ‘n’ roll. The original architect of this new genre overflowed with loud, flamboyant confidence, a searing devotion to his faith, and undeniable talent. However, thanks to segregation and fears of the influence of Black musicians in the 1950s, Richard’s revolutionary contributions were tragically whitewashed. LITTLE RICHARD: I AM EVERYTHING travels from the deep gospel roots of the icon’s hometown of Macon, Georgia, to his rise to fame and long overdue recognition. Archival footage of Richard and interviews with other music legends illustrate how this Black, queer rockstar’s complex legacy transformed the music industry forever. —A.B.