The album cover for 'Whipped Cream & Other Delights' by Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass is one of the most iconic images in music history. Released in 1965, the cover features model Dolores Erickson seemingly covered in whipped cream, creating a provocative and memorable visual that has become a cultural icon. The story behind this cover is as intriguing as the image itself.
The Creation of an Iconic Image
The cover art for 'Whipped Cream & Other Delights' was created by A&M art director
Peter Whorf. The photo shoot took place in Whorf's studio, a converted garage, and featured model Dolores Erickson, who was three months pregnant at the time. To achieve the desired effect, Erickson was covered in shaving cream, which was used instead of whipped cream to withstand the hot photographic lights.
Erickson sat on a stool with a white Christmas blanket covering her from the waist down, wearing a bikini with the straps down. The image was both artistic and provocative, capturing the attention of the public and becoming a pop culture phenomenon. The cover's impact was so significant that it became a talking point during Herb Alpert's concerts, where he would humorously acknowledge its popularity.
Cultural Impact and Parodies
The album cover for 'Whipped Cream & Other Delights' quickly became a cultural touchstone, recognized and parodied by various artists and media. Its provocative nature and artistic execution made it a subject of fascination and discussion, contributing to the album's overall success.
One notable parody came from the band Soul Asylum, who created a humorous nod to the original with their EP 'Clam Dip & Other Delights.' This parody, along with others, demonstrates the enduring impact of the album's visual elements and its place in cultural history.
Legacy and Continued Relevance
The legacy of the 'Whipped Cream & Other Delights' album cover extends beyond its initial release. In 2006, a remix of the album was released, featuring a new cover with model Bree Condon styled similarly to Erickson. This release shows the continued relevance and fascination with the album's imagery.
The cover's influence is evident in its lasting recognition and the way it has been embraced by popular culture. It remains a significant cultural artifact, illustrating the power of visual art to transcend time and influence generations. The story behind the cover is a testament to the creativity and vision that went into its creation, making it an enduring symbol of the 1960s music scene.
