Recorded in 1972 at Criteria Studios in Miami, Southern Child was conceived as a comeback album for Little Richard to Southern rhythm and blues. However, RCA Victor decided not to release it at the time, leaving the tapes unpublished for over three decades.
The album reflects the funk and soul style of the early seventies, with production aiming to modernize Richard's sound without losing his gospel and rock and roll essence. It includes collaborations with session musicians of the era.
Finally, Southern Child was officially released in 2005 by RCA Victor, as part of a series of archival reissues. The delay in its publication made it a highly sought-after rarity among collectors and music critics.