Uncovered: Something Wicker This Way Comes

The second installment of “Uncovered,” an occasional feature that investigates the similarities of album covers across genres and decades. This time, we take a seat and get laid back.

The 1970s were a time of experimentation in music. There was funk, progressive rock, progressive country, jazz fusion—even hip-hop was in its infancy. Everyone wanted to try something new. Much of this creativity spilled over into album art, as designers such as Hipgnosis were designing album covers that were bold, surreal, captivating, and just plain weird.

However, others settled for comfort while relaxing in a nice wicker chair. I mean, is that so wrong? What follows are a few who chose relaxation over experimentation, yet still found creative avenues while presenting their wicker ways.

The look of a guy who can direct you to all the gold in California.

By the late ‘70s, even country artists jumped into the wicker game…

Working with that inimitable 1970s soft filter.

…while others brought a little more soul.

A funky bluesman ain’t above a little wicker love.

Open collared shirts enhanced the experience.

Don’t bet against Al. He just won these guitars with the previous hand.

Some opted for a more formal look, but even they couldn’t resist a nice fern.

For some, a wicker chair was so comfortable that they fell asleep during the shoot…

He’s dirty and sweet, oh yeah.

…and looked quite grumpy if awakened.

Fresh out of the Chicken Shack

Who needs ferns when you’ve got funk?

One nation, seated, under a groove

…and style…

To all the chairs he’s loved before…

Multicolored arrangements could sometimes threaten to take over the shoot…

…but mostly, everything in the ‘70s were just so darn-tootin’ brown and brown-adjacent. (Caused by the overwhelming amounts of nicotine in the air, no doubt.)

The lapels. The gown. The fern. The name:

There seems to be an air of regret here…for both parties.

Your furniture should always complement your space.

When your chair is so swanky, there’s room for two.

Do you think they drew straws as to who’d be the third wheel?

There’s also no reason why you can’t accessorize your wicker…

The shag is a nice touch.

…and Lady Gaga even wickered out for this year’s Grammy Awards.

Wicker chair challenge: Final Boss.

’Til next time, stay positive, practice radical empathy, and if anyone tries to steal your joy, tell ‘em to take a seat. You got this.

See also:

Uncovered: Lean Into It

Country Musings: Cringe Country