Little Richard is one of the undisputed founding fathers of rock ’n’ roll, and here we have two gorgeous 1950s concert posters that feature him prominently. Both are from the Southern “chitlin circuit” tour stop of Chattanooga, TN. The first one, in this video, dates from 1956, the year that Mr. Penniman (his real name) burst on the scene. Richard shares the bill with several other fellow rock ’n’ roll hall-of-famers, including Big Joe Turner, Etta James and the Moonglows. Be sure to check out Part Two of this video to see the ’57 poster as well.

CORRECTION: In this video, I inadvertently stated that Big Jay McNeely is no longer alive. I’m thrilled to report that as of this video’s initial posting in July of 2012, Big Jay was still alive and doing well. My apologies.

Enthusiastically discussed by collector Pete Howard of PosterCentral.com (phone 805-540-0020, email pete@postercentral.com). And if original 1950s rock & roll concert posters get you all shook up, you can see more great ones on this page right here on my web site: http://www.postercentral.com/rocknroll.htm