Historic moments spanning 75 years from Atlantic Records documented in a new photo book
Atlantic Records Celebrates 75 Years with Photo Book
Atlantic Records, a New York-based label that has been a cornerstone of the music industry for 75 years, has released a photo book showcasing its rich legacy. Titled "75 Years of Atlantic Records," the book offers a glimpse into the label's history, featuring photographs capturing some of the most iconic moments in music.
The book, available from March 23 via Taschen, was curated by Reuel Golden, an editor who delved into Atlantic's extensive archives. The cover of the book features a photo taken by Jim Marshall of Cream performing or recording, while inside, readers will find images from the label's extensive collection, many published for the first time.
Photographers such as Annie Leibovitz, Jim Marshall, Lee Friedlander, Walter Iooss Jr., Anton Corbijn, Chuck Stewart, Albert Watson, and David LaChapelle captured the unique moments that are unlikely to be repeated due to the control in the record industry. These renowned photographers have managed to capture the raw power of live performance, the essence of artists' performances, and the era's music culture.
The book showcases historic recording sessions that have taken place at Atlantic Studios, hosting iconic figures such as Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, and Led Zeppelin. Readers will find photographs of these artists, producers, and engineers at work, offering a glimpse into the creative process and interpersonal dynamics that drove the success of Atlantic Records.
Behind-the-scenes moments are also included in the book, featuring candid shots of artists and producers in discussion, rehearsing, or socializing during recording sessions. These images provide a unique perspective on the creative process and the interplay between artists and their teams.
The book also highlights the evolution of recording technology and studio design over the decades, showcasing historical studio settings. This section underscores the shifts in audio engineering and production practices that Atlantic Records has undertaken throughout its history.
In addition to the photographs, the book touches on the creation and design of iconic album covers, which often feature photographs of the artists or conceptual artwork. These images have become synonymous with their respective albums and contribute to the visual legacy of Atlantic Records.
Atlantic Records' legacy is greatly associated with the personality and ethos of its co-founder Ahmet Ertegun. Ertegun was the first music executive to champion soul and R&B music, and the book features photographs of influential musicians who helped shape the sound of Atlantic Records, such as The Drifters and The Coasters.
Atlantic Records hired Black photographers to shoot their artists, which was unusual at the time. One such photograph features Aretha Franklin backstage at a concert in New Jersey, fixing her makeup in front of a mirror, taken by Walter Iooss Jr. Another great photograph captures the Queen of Soul preparing to go on stage.
Walter Iooss Jr., who had an alternative career as a music photographer in the 1960s, was skilled at capturing the raw power of live performance. Jim Marshall, another renowned photographer, was also known for his ability to capture the energy of live music.
The photography industry is more challenged than it was in the past, but the photos in "75 Years of Atlantic Records" serve as a testament to the label's enduring impact on music history. The book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of music and the role Atlantic Records has played in shaping the industry.
This book, "75 Years of Atlantic Records," is not just a collection of photographs; it's an exploration of entertainment, unveiling the rich legacy of Atlantic Records through the lens of renowned photographers like Annie Leibovitz, Jim Marshall, and many others. During the music industry's golden era, these photographers captured the essence of performances, underscoring the importance of music as a significant form of entertainment.
