Uncovered: Lean Into It

Back when artists were too cool to stand, and opted to just chill for the camera.

I’m one of six people on Earth who has never owned a copy of this record.

Welcome to a new occasional feature of The Mixtape called “Uncovered,” wherein I investigate the similarities of album covers across genres and decades. We’ll start with the guaranteed never-to-fail and seductive “elbow lean.”

Leaning on one’s elbow became a time-honored tradition in the world of album (and some 7” single) covers from the 1960s through its golden age, the 1980s.

Look deep into his eyes; you can tell he’s going to Carolina…at least in his mind.

No genre was spared, as the pose spread from pop and country to R&B and rock.

Yellow shirts were certainly a stylistic choice.

Chachi lacked Luther’s swagger by a tad.

Either elbow could be utilized.

Gold jewelry with fresh floor polish for maximum effect.

Adding props enhanced the experience…

The hit opening track on this album really is titled “She Left Love All Over Me.”

Ol' Mac got a leg up on his competitors.

…and poppin’ that collar never hurts.

That’s what elbows are for.

Some gave us the one-elbow-up, one-elbow-down maneuver complete with a full-lean pose…

He just wants to be your everything.

…while others didn’t even bother to remove their hat…

Watch out, ladies; he’s untied his bolo.

…or boots.

“You keep lyin’ when you oughta be truthin’.”

The tummy hold here is particularly inspired:

Has there ever been a better ad for IZOD?

There was also the occasional forward double-elbow lean…

“Rebel Rebel” indeed.

And finally, for those who didn’t want to go full elbow, we mustn’t forget the palm-lean subset of this album cover phenomenon. Mainly used by artists formerly in popular bands (below, Spirit and Humble Pie, respectively) but found a whole new audience with their solo work…

Nice footwear, Jay.

Beg pardon?

The palm-lean was also occasionally put into action by ‘70s and ‘80s country artists, such as Dottie West and Charly McClain.

Not really much of a lean, but the outfit slaps, so we’ll allow it.

McClain thought the palm-lean was so nice, she used it twice…

…and paired it with an elbow lean on the back cover. Game, set, match.

Until next time, here’s to leaning into your dreams and goals. If anything tries to block you, elbow it out of the way.