Alice Cooper shared cocktails with Salvador Dalí, midnight movies with Groucho Marx and bar tabs with Beatles. The Godfather of Shock Rock had the strangest address book in show business. Here’s the surreal story behind it.

In September 1956, a young John Lennon took home a dismal report card–the kind that many smart, wayward kids can probably relate to. French teacher: “An intelligent boy who could be very much better with a little concentration in class.” Maths teacher: “He is certainly on the road to failure if this goes on.” Physics teacher: “His work always lacks effort. He is content to ‘drift’ instead of using his abilities.” Religion teacher: “Attitude in class most unsatisfactory.” Hea

Being gay and black in the deep south during the 1950s may sound like a recipe for disaster, but not so much for Little Richard. Innovative, extravagant, and eccentric—Little Richard embodied these qualities and more. Beyond his electrifying performances, the late legend led a life characterized by a whirlwind of experiences, including indulgence in sex, drugs, spirituality, and acts of generosity. He exuded a blend of audacity, charm, and kindness that transcended the piano