Little Richard is an American Icon, a delicacy of flamboyance and performance and sequins. And this week, the man responsible for making a scream his national catchphrase is asking for something in return after years of thanklessly entertaining the public: Prayer for recovery.

Little Richard is asking fans to pray for his speedy recovery after undergoing hip surgery at a Tennessee hospital.

The Rev. Bill Minson, a family friend, says the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer had been in some pain leading up to the surgery but continued to maintain a rigorous performing schedule.

Minson says the 76-year-old asked him to tell fans “to get ready to rock ‘n’ roll with him in the new year because he’s coming back strong.”

Praying for Little Richard seems like the least we could do as a people. In fact, allow us to use this video of Aretha Franklin, Billy Preston, a Gospel Choir and Little Richard as inspiration. Our boy rolls in at 3:25.

We hope Little Richard Simmons is still in good health.