Behind the Covers

“punk”

1 cover story in our archive

Behind the Covers' archive includes 1 album cover documented under the "punk" design theme, all from the 1970s. The cover sits within the rock, punk tradition and features work by The Clash. Each entry below includes the cover artwork, the designers and photographers behind it, and a short story about the visual choices that defined the release.

London Calling by The Clash — album cover art

London Calling by The Clash (1979)

Pennie Smith captured bassist Paul Simonon smashing his Fender Precision Bass on stage — a slightly out-of-focus shot she didn't want used, but the band declared it the only possible cover. The typography deliberately mimics Elvis Presley's debut album.

Label
CBS
Designer
Ray Lowry
Photographer
Pennie Smith
Genre
Rock, Punk
Decade
1970s
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