Folk Singer Lucy Isabel Picks 10 Great Album Covers  

Pearl Jam, Janelle Monáe, Willie Nelson and more

I love the way album art can draw you in and compel you to listen to something you may not have otherwise picked up. When I was thinking of my top 10 picks in regards to art rather than just the music, I realized these sleeves don’t necessarily represent my favorite music. But they all caught my eye. I think for my latest album, All The Light, I was drawn to the idea of a self-portrait. I’ve never used a picture of myself as album art, but in thinking of the album’s themes, it felt like the obvious choice. Several of the covers below inspired my approach.

Bruce Springsteen

Born To Run (1975)

I grew up in New Jersey, so it would be hard for me to write any kind of top 10 list that doesn’t include Bruce. The art is just so iconic. The sheer glee on Bruce’s face as he looks at Clarence encapsulates the vibe of the album.

Brandi Carlile

In These Silent Days (2021)

I’ve been a Brandi Carlile fan for a long while, and this art really spoke to me. Especially because it came out while I was in the midst of writing my album. I love the ethereal elements.

Jacques Brel

Ne Me Quitte Pas (1972)

I love album art from the ’60s in general, because there was such a distinct approach to the headshots. It’s school picture day, and I’m so here for it.

Pearl Jam

Pearl Jam (2006)

I don’t listen to much Pearl Jam, but this cover makes me want to dive in. I have so many questions; mainly, why an avocado? I also find the blue ombre background super satisfying.

Yola

Walk Through Fire (2019)

The juxtaposition of the title and art is brilliant. When you hear the phrase “walk through fire,” it’s easy to imagine that the focus is on difficulty. But Yola’s pose oozes confidence. There’s no hint of hesitation whatsoever. 

Lucius

Good Grief (2016)

This is such a powerful image. Embracing, even clinging, to someone who’s effectively invisible. Such a great metaphor for a relationship where one partner isn’t fully present.

Sweeney Todd

Original 1979 Broadway Cast Recording

I was a theater kid and my parents instilled in me an undying love for the music and lyrics of Stephen Sondheim. The caricatures on this album cover live rent-free in my mind and have done so since I was at least 6 years old. I don’t know that it’s actually one of my favorites, per se. But it’s memorable and sets you up perfectly for the contents of the score.

Janelle Monáe

The Electric Lady (2013)

This cover was ahead of its time with references to technology and replication. I love how each of the Janelles look just slightly different.

The Chicks

Gaslighter (2020)

I’ve been a fan of The Chicks since I was a little bitty girl listening to ’90s country radio. I love this cover because it’s so true to who they’ve always been: strong, opinionated and brilliantly talented.

Willie Nelson

…And Then I Wrote (1962)

This goes back to my love for the “school picture” covers of the ’60s. It’s Willie Nelson, and this is such a buttoned-up version. That’s great. I love the color choices.