The first live popular music concert I ever attended as a 10 year old featured Little Richard as the headliner. His act was an eye-opener. Little did I realize then the historical importance of "Little Richard" Penniman to the history of rock and roll.

When comparing Little Richard, Sly Stone, James Brown, Jimi Hendrix, Ray Charles, and Prince, here's a question for you...who has had the most lasting influence? All six have certainly been remarkably successful!

All six have been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame:

• James Brown - 1986
• Little Richard - 1986
• Ray Charles - 1986
• Jimi Hendrix - 1992 (The Jimi Hendrix Experience)
• Sly Stone - 1993 (Sly and the Family Stone)
• Prince - 2004

I can seriously argue for five of the six. Prince would have to be eliminated first, although "Mr. Purple Rain" is James Brown, Little Richard, Jimi Hendrix, and Sly Stone rolled into one unique package.

Ray Charles and James Brown are very close, but I'll have to go with the "Godfather of Soul" as the most influential artist on the list.

Sly Stone and Prince both expanded on "Mr. Dynamite," J.B.'s groove, to produce some funky Hendrix influenced rhythms.

Ray Charles may have been a more versatile artist, but James Brown, "the hardest working man in show business," changed the face of soul music forever.

I'd argue that Brown's influence in R&B has been more dominant than Hendrix's influence in rock. Jimi can't be short changed however for his amazing contributions.

Let's not dismiss the legacy of the living legend, Little Richard. You see and hear more of him today primarily on television commercials, but Little Richard raised the bar on flamboyance in music.

I could name 10 artists that patterned their act from the flashy eccentric mannerisms of Little Richard's stage persona. Oh yes, his music was pretty good too.

Good Golly Miss Molly, it's James Brown by a nose as the most influential personality among our list of super greats. What do you think?

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