4 of the Best Tributes to the Beatles’ Famed ‘Abbey Road’ Album Cover
The Beatles‘ Abbey Road features one of the most easily recognizable album covers all time: the foursome crossing the road outside of the famed studio. Even for those not engrossed in the Beatles’ lore will know exactly what someone is trying to emulate should they take a picture traipsing over a crosswalk. Because of how iconic it is, many musicians have used it as a jumping off point for their own album artwork. From rap stars to puppets, find four of the best Abbey Road tributes, below.
1. Late Orchestration (Kanye West)
Kanye West took to Abbey Road to perform and record a live album, Late Orchestration, in the mid-’00s. The track list consists of some of his biggest hits from his first two albums, all done with a sweeping orchestral arrangement.
Given that the album was recorded in that sanctified studio, the album cover had to follow suit. Though not a direct copy of the original Abbey Road cover, it certainly captures the same spirit.
2. The Abbey Road E.P. (Red Hot Chili Peppers)
In an effort to introduce U.K. fans to the debaucherous, high-energy music of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, the band released a special E.P. The project, named after the Beatles’ studio, saw the band do a naughty spin on the crosswalk bit.
Though it might not be as universally beloved as the Beatles’ version of the same cover, it sure is memorable.
3. Paul is Live (Paul McCartney)
Paul McCartney made light of the “Paul is Dead” conspiracy theory that was fostered by the original Abbey Road cover art on his album, Paul is Live.
The live album saw him return to that fateful crosswalk, this time with only a dog in tow. It’s a playful way to push back at the rumors that the 1969 work helped to proliferate.
4. Sesame Road (Sesame Street)
Abbey Road…Sesame Street…They both have a name recognition that not many of their fellow roadways can boast. Because of this, it made sense when Elmo and gang decided to play off the Beatles’ album.
The Sesame Road album sees Elmo, Oscar the Grouch, Cookie Monster, and Big Bird play our Fab Four. Arguably just as iconic as the original foursome.
Leave a Reply