On my way to Amsterdam yesterday, I picked up the latest issue of RollingStone magazine at an airport newsstand. This week's special issue celebrates the 50th anniversary of rock with some of the greatest photographs that were shot for the magazine.
While flipping through the pages I once again realized that not only music defines great pop stars. It is also their candid, sexy, controversial or artful imagery that has the power to create a lasting impression. In the end it is all about the total package.
These are some of my favorite RollingStone photographs:
1. Justin Timberlake (by Herb Ritts) (click for image)
Talking about the total package... This homoerotic shot of Timberlake transformed the singer from a wholesome teen star into a global sex symbol with that rippled stomach to drool over. This memorable photo is some of the last work Ritts did before he died at the age of 50.
2. Britney Spears (by David LaChapelle, 1999) (click for image)
I love LaChapelle's photography with its bright, almost fluorescent colors and tongue-in-cheek themes. This was the first cover photo Spears ever did. Inspired by a Lolita theme, the photo created a stir of controversy for Spears' unbuttoned shirt while holding a teletubbie (not the gay Tinky Winky).
3. Tina Turner (by Steven Meisel, 1984) (click for image)
Tina Turner made a glorious comeback as a solo artist after her traumatic split with husband Ike. This image beautifully reflects Turner on top her own game. Sassy, fierce and full of grit. This woman lives and breathes rock 'n rock.
4. Janet Jackson (by Patrick Demarchelier, 1993) (click for image)
This photo confirms that Janet Jackson has had a thing with her breasts even before the notorious Superbowl titty show. The hands in this photo (by fashion photographer Patrick Demarchalier) are from her (now) ex-husband Rene Elizondo. The photos from this session served as the sleeve art for her "janet" album.
5. Madonna (by Herb Ritts, 1987) (click for image)
Photographer Ritts befriended Madonna after he shot photos at her wedding to Sean Penn. The familiarity between the two resulted in this goofy picture of Madonna. It is one of the few photos of the diva that shows some genuine, off-camera personality.
