I think the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame should seriously consider Hipgnosis for induction. In addition to musicians, its gives out the Ahmet Ertegun Award for "songwriters, producers, disc jockeys, record executives, journalists and other industry professionals who have had a major influence on the development of rock and roll."
Hipgnosis, as you say, were an absolutely essential part of the seventies album era.
This is a fabulous point, Robert. I have plenty of issues with the HoF but if we're gonna include those other folks, you've got to include designers as well. If you include designers, Hipgnosis would be a good place to start.
Side note, did you know that before he was on SNL, Phil Hartman did album designs?
Yes, the HOF has issues, but I really think designers should be part of it. Design and packaging is a huge part of how one experiences an album, especially in the vinyl era, and Hipgnosis designed some of the most visually iconic albums ever. You'd agree that that refracting rainbow really shapes/informs the overall experience of Dark Side of the Moon, for example.
For another example, think of how closely tied Yes's identity as a band is to Roger Dean's artwork.
In my opinion, another glaring rock hall snub (in the sideman category) is Nicky Hopkins. He was basically an unofficial member of The Who, The Kinks and The Rolling Stones, in addition to playing with Jeff Beck, John Lennon, Jerry Garcia, etc. Turn on any classic rock station, wait a few minutes, and you'll probably hear his piano playing.
I think the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame should seriously consider Hipgnosis for induction. In addition to musicians, its gives out the Ahmet Ertegun Award for "songwriters, producers, disc jockeys, record executives, journalists and other industry professionals who have had a major influence on the development of rock and roll."
Hipgnosis, as you say, were an absolutely essential part of the seventies album era.
This is a fabulous point, Robert. I have plenty of issues with the HoF but if we're gonna include those other folks, you've got to include designers as well. If you include designers, Hipgnosis would be a good place to start.
Side note, did you know that before he was on SNL, Phil Hartman did album designs?
I did not know that.
Yes, the HOF has issues, but I really think designers should be part of it. Design and packaging is a huge part of how one experiences an album, especially in the vinyl era, and Hipgnosis designed some of the most visually iconic albums ever. You'd agree that that refracting rainbow really shapes/informs the overall experience of Dark Side of the Moon, for example.
For another example, think of how closely tied Yes's identity as a band is to Roger Dean's artwork.
In my opinion, another glaring rock hall snub (in the sideman category) is Nicky Hopkins. He was basically an unofficial member of The Who, The Kinks and The Rolling Stones, in addition to playing with Jeff Beck, John Lennon, Jerry Garcia, etc. Turn on any classic rock station, wait a few minutes, and you'll probably hear his piano playing.
My kids are into vinyl as well. It's really fun to watch them get excited about it. The artifact of it is still the most pleasing aspect to my mind.
Glad you enjoyed the piece. Be sure to check the movie too. They even manage to make Noel Gallagher seem like not a complete asshole.