How Little Richard found his flamboyant style | American Masters | PBS

About the song

In the annals of rock and roll history, few names resonate with the raw, untamed energy of Little Richard. The flamboyant, genre-bending musician was a pioneer of the genre, infusing his music with a frenetic urgency and untamed spirit that left audiences breathless. His 1956 single, “The Girl Can’t Help It”, stands as a testament to his enduring legacy, a rollicking anthem that encapsulates the infectious exuberance of early rock and roll.

From the moment the song’s opening piano chords burst forth, “The Girl Can’t Help It” grabs the listener by the collar and doesn’t let go. Richard’s vocals, a potent blend of soulful grit and unrestrained joy, soar over the driving beat, while the saxophone wails and the guitar riffs stab with electrifying intensity. The lyrics, a celebration of an irresistible woman who drives her man wild, are simple yet infectious, delivered with a playful wink and a devil-may-care attitude.

“The Girl Can’t Help It” was a commercial success upon its release, reaching number 49 on the Billboard Pop Singles chart and number 7 on the R&B Singles chart. But its impact far transcends mere chart numbers. The song became an instant classic, a staple of rock and roll radio and a must-play at any rock and roll party. Its influence can be heard in countless artists who followed in Richard’s footsteps, from the raw energy of punk rockers to the swagger of glam rockers.

More than just a catchy tune, “The Girl Can’t Help It” is a cultural touchstone. It captured the spirit of a time when rock and roll was young, rebellious, and full of untamed potential. It was a music that broke free from the constraints of the past, embracing a new era of self-expression and unbridled energy.

“The Girl Can’t Help It” is more than just a song; it’s a force of nature. It’s a reminder of the power of rock and roll to ignite the soul and set the spirit free. It’s a testament to the enduring genius of Little Richard, a true rock and roll original.

Video

Lyrics

She can’t help it, the girl can’t help itShe can’t help it, the girl can’t help it
If she walks by the men folks get engrossed(She can’t help it, the girl can’t help it)If she winks an eye the bread slice turn to toast(She can’t help it, the girl can’t help it)If she got a lot of what they call the most(She can’t help it, the girl can’t help it)
The girl can’t help it, she was born to please(She can’t help it, the girl can’t help it)And if she’s got a figure made to squeeze(She can’t help it, the girl can’t help it)Won’t you kindly be aware, the girl can’t help it(The girl can’t help it)
If she mesmerizes every mother’s son(She can’t help it, the girl can’t help it)If she’s smiling, beefsteak become well done(She can’t help it, the girl can’t help it)She makes grandpa feel like 21(She can’t help it, the girl can’t help it)
The girl can’t help it, she was born to please(She can’t help it, the girl can’t help it)And if I go to her on bended knees(She can’t help it, the girl can’t help it)Won’t you kindly be aware that I can’t help it(I can’t help it)
Because I’m hoping, obviouslyThat some day, the answer would beThe girl can’t help it, she’s in love with me(She can’t help it, the girl can’t help it)
If she walks by the men folks get engrossed(She can’t help it, the girl can’t help it)If she winks an eye the bread slice turn to toast(She can’t help it, the girl can’t help it)She got a lot of what they call the most(She can’t help it, the girl can’t help it)
The girl can’t help it, she was born to please(She can’t help it, the girl can’t help it)And if she’s got a figure made to squeeze(She can’t help it, the girl can’t help it)
I’m hoping, obviouslyThat some day, the answer would beThe girl can’t help it, she’s in love with me(She can’t help it, the girl can’t help it)