Rod Stewart Album Covers: A Complete Discography
Hey music lovers! Today, we're diving deep into the incredible world of Rod Stewart and exploring his amazing album covers in order. From his early days with gritty blues-rock to his later years embracing pop and the Great American Songbook, Rod the Mod has consistently delivered memorable music. And let's be real, his album covers are just as iconic as his raspy voice. So, buckle up, and let’s take a chronological trip through Rod Stewart's discography, album by album, and cover by cover!
The Early Years: From Blues to Breakthrough
An Old Raincoat Won't Ever Let You Down (1969) / The Rod Stewart Album (US Title)
Our journey begins with Rod Stewart's debut album, originally titled An Old Raincoat Won't Ever Let You Down, released in 1969 in the UK. For the US market, it was smartly renamed The Rod Stewart Album. The cover itself is simple yet striking. It features a black and white photograph of a young Rod, looking effortlessly cool and slightly scruffy, perfectly capturing his bluesy rock and roll vibe at the time. The image is raw and authentic, hinting at the musical treasures within. This album is a cornerstone of his early sound, blending blues, rock, and folk influences into a unique concoction that would soon become his signature. Tracks like "Handbags and Gladrags" and "Street Fighting Man" showcase his vocal prowess and his knack for interpreting songs with his own distinct style. The album's cover is more than just a picture; it's an introduction to the persona of Rod Stewart – a charismatic, slightly rebellious, and immensely talented artist ready to make his mark on the music world. It’s a visual representation of the music: unpolished, honest, and full of potential. From the get-go, Rod established himself as more than just a singer; he was a storyteller, and this album cover set the stage for the many stories he would tell through his music.
Gasoline Alley (1970)
Next up is Gasoline Alley, released in 1970. This album cover presents a nostalgic, almost sepia-toned image of Rod and his bandmates hanging out in what appears to be a run-down street or alleyway. It evokes a sense of camaraderie and the hard-working, blue-collar roots of their music. The cover screams authenticity, as if you're getting a glimpse into their everyday lives. Gasoline Alley continues in the vein of his debut but delves deeper into folk and country influences. The title track is a classic, and the album features covers like "Cut Across Shorty" that highlight Rod's interpretive skills. The overall feel of the album is more relaxed and rootsy than its predecessor, reflecting a growing confidence and maturity in Rod's songwriting and performance. The cover art, with its faded colors and candid shot, perfectly complements the music's warm, intimate feel. It’s like a snapshot from a bygone era, inviting you to step into their world and share in their musical journey. The album solidified Rod Stewart's reputation as a major talent, proving that he was not just a flash in the pan but an artist with staying power and a unique vision.
Every Picture Tells a Story (1971)
Every Picture Tells a Story, released in 1971, is arguably Rod Stewart's breakthrough album. The cover is a simple, close-up shot of Rod, looking directly at the camera with a slightly mischievous grin. It's an image that exudes confidence and charisma. The album itself is a masterpiece, featuring the iconic track "Maggie May," which catapulted Rod to international stardom. Other highlights include "Reason to Believe" and "Mandolin Wind," showcasing his versatility and songwriting talent. The cover's simplicity is deceptive because the album is anything but. It's a rich tapestry of rock, folk, and blues, woven together by Rod's distinctive voice and storytelling ability. Every Picture Tells a Story is more than just an album; it's a cultural touchstone that defined a generation. The album cover became synonymous with Rod Stewart's image, capturing his rock star swagger and undeniable appeal. This album not only cemented his place in music history but also set the stage for his future success as one of the world's biggest rock icons. It's a testament to the power of a great album and a perfectly captured image that resonates with fans even today.
Never a Dull Moment (1972)
In 1972, Rod Stewart released Never a Dull Moment. The album cover features Rod in a flamboyant pose, wearing a bright yellow suit and holding a pool cue. It's a playful and somewhat eccentric image that reflects the album's eclectic mix of songs. The cover is bold and attention-grabbing, hinting at the musical experimentation within. Never a Dull Moment is a diverse collection of tracks, ranging from rock anthems to soulful ballads. Highlights include "You Wear It Well" and "Twisting the Night Away," showcasing Rod's ability to blend different genres seamlessly. The album's title is certainly fitting, as it's a non-stop ride of musical excitement and surprises. The cover art perfectly encapsulates the album's spirit: fun, irreverent, and full of energy. It's a visual representation of Rod Stewart's evolving persona, as he embraces his role as a rock star while still maintaining his rootsy charm. The album solidified his reputation as a versatile artist who was not afraid to take risks and experiment with his sound. Never a Dull Moment is a testament to Rod Stewart's creativity and his ability to keep his fans guessing.
Mid-Career: Chart-Topping Success
Smiler (1974)
Smiler, released in 1974, features Rod Stewart on the album cover mimicking Al Jolson. It's a controversial image, even today, and it’s hard to say whether it’s in homage or satire. This cover is probably the most talked about of all his albums, and the music inside is as great as the cover is contentious. The album includes the hits “Sweet Little Rock and Roller” and “Farewell”. Critics gave it mixed reviews, but it did well on the charts nonetheless. It is a snapshot of the 70s and, perhaps, what might have been considered irreverent fun back then. The controversy probably helped sales, but you can’t deny that the album had some great rock-and-roll tunes on it.
Atlantic Crossing (1975)
Atlantic Crossing, from 1975, marks a significant turning point in Rod Stewart's career. The album cover depicts Rod casually leaning against a railing on a ship, with the Atlantic Ocean stretching out behind him. It symbolizes his move from the UK to the United States and a shift towards a more polished, pop-oriented sound. The cover conveys a sense of adventure and new beginnings, as Rod embarks on a new chapter in his life and career. Atlantic Crossing features some of Rod's biggest hits, including "Sailing" and "I Don't Want to Talk About It," showcasing his ability to deliver both upbeat rock anthems and heartfelt ballads. The album was a commercial success, cementing his status as a global superstar. The cover art reflects the music's sleek and sophisticated feel, signaling a departure from his earlier, more rootsy sound. It's a visual representation of Rod Stewart's ambition and his willingness to evolve as an artist. Atlantic Crossing is a pivotal album in his discography, marking the beginning of his transformation into a pop icon.
A Night on the Town (1976)
A Night on the Town came out in 1976. The cover is a painting of Rod in a bar, looking dapper and sophisticated. This album contained some of Rod’s most memorable hits, like “Tonight’s the Night” and “The First Cut Is the Deepest.” It was very well received, and the album went platinum, proving that Rod had well and truly conquered the pop charts. The album shows Rod at his best with ballads and rock tunes that appealed to a wide audience.
Foot Loose & Fancy Free (1977)
The Foot Loose & Fancy Free album of 1977 features Rod belting into the microphone during a live performance. Rod is the consummate rock star! And the music, as the title suggests, is easy and fun. “You’re in My Heart” was the hit song, and “Hot Legs” became a staple on the radio as well. The album hit number two on the Billboard charts and sold over three million copies in the US. It’s a classic rock album that still sounds great today!
Blondes Have More Fun (1978)
Blondes Have More Fun, released in 1978, features Rod in a disco-esque setting, surrounded by women. The album's title track was a massive hit, reflecting the disco craze of the late 1970s. While it represented a further move into pop, it also showcased his willingness to experiment with different sounds. This is a fun album that captured the spirit of the era. The album cover is fun and is still played today, proving that some songs are timeless.
Later Years: Embracing the Classics
Foolish Behaviour (1980)
Foolish Behaviour, from 1980, shows Rod in a New Wave style, which was very popular at the time. Though it had some hits, it didn’t do as well as his previous work. Critics gave it mixed reviews, but it still sold well enough, showing how popular Rod was with his fans. It showed Rod was willing to take chances, but his fans wanted more of his older sound.
Tonight I'm Yours (1981)
Tonight I'm Yours was released in 1981 and had a more contemporary sound. The album cover features Rod in a modern setting, reflecting the album's updated sound. The title track was a hit, and the album was a commercial success. This album helped Rod stay relevant in the ever-changing music scene and showed he could evolve with the times.
Body Wishes (1983)
Released in 1983, Body Wishes features Rod in a very 80s glam look. The album was a commercial success, but didn’t impress the critics much. It was very much a product of its time, with a synth-heavy sound that might not have aged well. Still, it sold well and kept Rod in the public eye.
Camouflage (1984)
Camouflage, released in 1984, had a rock sound that reminded people of his earlier albums. The album cover shows Rod in a camouflage jacket. The album was received well by fans and was another hit for Rod, confirming that he could still deliver great rock tunes.
Vagabond Heart (1991)
Vagabond Heart, from 1991, features Rod looking very sophisticated. This album was a return to form for Rod, with great songwriting and performances. It was a commercial and critical success, reminding everyone of Rod's enduring talent.
When We Were the New Boys (1998)
When We Were the New Boys, released in 1998, showed Rod trying new styles. The album included covers of songs by Oasis and Primal Scream, showing Rod was still current. Though it was a departure, it was an interesting addition to his catalog.
It Had to Be You: The Great American Songbook (2002)
It Had to Be You: The Great American Songbook, released in 2002, was the first in a series of albums where Rod covered classic songs. The album cover shows Rod in a classic, sophisticated pose. It was a huge success and introduced Rod to a new generation of fans. The album showed Rod’s versatility and his appreciation for classic music.
As Time Goes By: The Great American Songbook, Vol. II (2003)
As Time Goes By: The Great American Songbook, Vol. II, came out in 2003 and continued the success of the first album. The album was another hit, confirming that Rod had found a new and successful direction in his career. The covers were beautifully done, and Rod’s voice was perfect for the material.
Stardust: The Great American Songbook, Vol. III (2004)
Stardust: The Great American Songbook, Vol. III was released in 2004. It followed the formula of the previous albums and was another success. The album cover showed Rod looking very stylish and comfortable with this new phase of his career. It solidified Rod’s status as a master interpreter of classic songs.
Thanks for the Memory: The Great American Songbook, Vol. IV (2005)
Thanks for the Memory: The Great American Songbook, Vol. IV, released in 2005, was the last in the series of Great American Songbook albums. It maintained the high standards of the previous albums and was another commercial success. The album cover was elegant and fitting for the material, showing Rod in his element.
Still the Same... Great Rock Classics of Our Time (2006)
Still the Same... Great Rock Classics of Our Time, released in 2006, featured Rod covering rock classics. The album was a return to his rock roots and was well received by fans. The album cover showed Rod in a rock and roll pose, reminding everyone of his earlier days.
Soulbook (2009)
Soulbook, released in 2009, had Rod covering soul classics. The album was a tribute to some of Rod’s favorite soul singers and was a commercial success. The album cover showed Rod in a soulful mood, paying homage to the genre.
Christmas (2012)
Christmas, from 2012, featured Rod singing holiday songs. The album was a festive offering and was a hit during the holiday season. The album cover showed Rod in a winter wonderland setting, spreading holiday cheer.
Time (2013)
Time, released in 2013, featured Rod writing original songs again. The album was a return to form and was well-received by critics and fans. The album cover showed Rod looking reflective, hinting at the personal nature of the songs.
Another Country (2015)
Another Country, from 2015, had Rod exploring country influences. The album showed Rod’s versatility and his willingness to experiment with different genres. The album cover showed Rod in a country setting, embracing the new direction.
Blood Red Roses (2018)
Blood Red Roses, released in 2018, featured Rod doing what he does best: rock and roll. The album was a solid effort and showed that Rod still had it after all these years. The album cover showed Rod in a classic rock pose, proving he was still a rock star.
You're in My Heart: Rod Stewart with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (2019)
You're in My Heart: Rod Stewart with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, released in 2019, featured Rod singing his hits with orchestral arrangements. The album gave a new twist to his classic songs and was well-received. The album cover showed Rod with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, adding a touch of class to his timeless music.
The Tears of Hercules (2021)
Finally, The Tears of Hercules, released in 2021, is Rod's most recent album to date. It shows that Rod is still making great music after all these years! The album cover is amazing and the songs are too. The album is a great addition to his amazing catalog.
And there you have it, folks! A chronological journey through the album covers of Rod Stewart, each one telling a story about his musical evolution and personal journey. From his early days as a blues-rocker to his later years as a pop crooner and interpreter of the Great American Songbook, Rod Stewart has consistently delivered memorable music and iconic album covers. Which one is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!
