Gary Burden, who beginning in the late 1960s designed memorable album covers for Neil Young, Joni Mitchell, the Doors and numerous other stars of rock and folk-rock, died on March 7 in Los Angeles. He was 84.
His wife and frequent collaborator, Jenice Heo, confirmed the death. No cause was given.
Working in the predigital era, when music was sold primarily on vinyl and artists were often trying to make a personal statement with their albums, Mr. Burden created cover after cover that seared their way into the minds of fans.
He designed the first Crosby, Stills & Nash album in 1969, featuring a Henry Diltz photograph of the three on a ragged couch. He also designed the cover of Ms. Mitchell’s acclaimed 1971 album, “Blue,” a striking close-up of the singer in blue and black tones. He put the Eagles in Wild West regalia for “Desperado” and Mr. Young in a cheesy yellow jacket for “On the Beach” (1974). Among his most recent work was Conor Oberst’s “Salutations,” released last year.
Full article: https://www.nytimes.com/2018/03/16/obituaries/gary-burden-designer-of-famous-album-covers-dies-at-84.html