Sir Elton John has paid a touching tribute to Little Richard after the rock 'n' roll legend's death at the age of 87.

The self-styled "king and queen of rock 'n' roll" passed away on Saturday after a career spanning seven decades which saw him have hits with songs including 'Tutti Frutti' and 'Good Golly Miss Molly'.

Richard was hugely influential for a slew of artists including The Beatles, the Rolling Stones, David Bowie and Sir Elton, who took to Instagram to post a eulogy.

"Without a doubt - musically, vocally and visually - he was my biggest influence," he wrote. "Seeing him live in my teens was the most exciting event in my life at that point.

"He influenced so many and is irreplaceable. A true legend, icon and a force of nature."