Anton Corbijn , in the world of photography, there are certain individuals who transcend the boundaries of their craft, creating a lasting impact through their unique vision and artistic prowess. One such luminary is Anton Corbijn, a Dutch photographer and filmmaker renowned for his exceptional ability to capture the essence of his subjects. With a portfolio that spans several decades and encompasses a diverse range of genres, Corbijn has firmly established himself as one of the world's most influential photographers.
Born on 20 May 1955, in Strijen, the Netherlands, Corbijn initially pursued a career in music journalism before realizing his true passion lay behind the camera. He gained recognition in the late 1970s and early 1980s for his distinctive black-and-white portraits of iconic musicians, particularly those within the burgeoning punk and new wave movements. Corbijn's ability to connect with his subjects on a personal level allowed him to capture their essence in a way that resonated with both the artists themselves and their fans.
One of Corbijn's most significant early collaborations was with the influential British band Joy Division. His iconic photograph of lead singer Ian Curtis, taken shortly before Curtis's tragic death in 1980, has become an enduring symbol of the band's legacy. Corbijn's ability to convey vulnerability and emotion through his images added a new dimension to music photography, elevating it from mere documentation to a form of art in its own right.
Corbijn's work extends far beyond the realm of music, with his evocative portraits of actors, directors, and other cultural figures capturing their innermost thoughts and emotions. His unique visual style, characterized by a careful use of light and shadow, often in monochromatic tones, adds a depth and intensity to his photographs, creating a sense of intimacy between the viewer and the subject.
Throughout his career, Corbijn has collaborated with some of the most influential figures in popular culture. His long-standing association with Irish rock band U2 has resulted in a series of iconic album covers and music videos that have helped shape the band's visual identity. Corbijn's ability to capture the raw energy and charisma of performers such as David Bowie, Tom Waits, and Patti Smith has made him a sought-after photographer in the world of music.
In addition to his photography, Corbijn has also made a name for himself as a filmmaker. He directed a number of critically acclaimed music videos, including Nirvana's "Heart-Shaped Box" and Depeche Mode's "Enjoy the Silence". In 2007, he made his feature film debut with "Control", a biographical film about Ian Curtis and Joy Division that received widespread acclaim for its artistry and emotional depth.
Corbijn's contributions to the world of photography have not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, including the prestigious Prince Bernhard Culture Fund Award for his outstanding achievements in the field of photography. His photographs have been exhibited in galleries and museums around the world, solidifying his status as a true master of the medium.
Beyond his artistic endeavors, Corbijn is known for his humility and down-to-earth nature. Despite his success, he remains dedicated to his craft, constantly seeking new ways to challenge himself and push the boundaries of his creativity. Whether photographing world-famous musicians or ordinary individuals, Corbijn has an uncanny ability to capture the humanity that resides within each subject, revealing their inner complexities and vulnerabilities.
| Label & Catalogno | Band/Performers - Album Title |
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ZTT (Zang Tuum Tumb) Records, 1984, 2060492
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ART OF NOISE Who's Afraid of the Art of Noise The Art of Noise!, consolidated the future shock of the earlier EPs and singles in one entertaining and often frightening and screwed-up package. Rarely has something aiming for modern pop status also sought to destroy and disturb so effectively. |
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Illegal records ILP 009
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CRAMPS - Psychedelic Jungle ( 1981 Netherlands / Belgium ) This album "CRAMPS - Psychedelic Jungle" is the second LP by the American garage punk band The Cramps. It was released on IRS Records. It was engineered by Paul McKenna and recorded at in January 1981 at A&M Studios. It was self-produced by The Cramps. The back photo on the cover of the album was taken by noted photographer and director Anton Corbijn. |
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Metronome 828 004
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FINE YOUNG CANIBALS- S/T Self-Titled Fine Young Cannibals' self-titled 12" LP vinyl album marked the debut of this British New Wave Rock band. The album, featuring photography by Anton Corbijn, includes a custom inner sleeve with |
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The Load album marked the METALLICA's return to the musical landscape, approximately five years after the release of their international smash success METALLICA (commonly referred to as The Black Album). Load saw the band embrace a collective sound and identity far removed from their thrash metal roots |
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ZTT Zang Tumb Tuum 107 606 Perfect Songs Ltd
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PROPAGANDA - Machinery / Frozen Faces ZTT ( 1985 ) "p:Machinery" is the third single by German New Wave/synthpop band Propaganda, released in 1985. The song is taken from their debut album "A Secret Wish". |
Island 208 219
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"The Joshua Tree" is the fifth studio album by rock band U2. Produced by Daniel Lanois and Brian Eno, it was released on 9 March 1987 by Island Records. |
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"The Unforgettable Fire" is the 1984 studio album released by the Irish Rock band "U2". This album was produced by Brian Eno and Daniel Lanois. Artwork and photography Anton Corbijn. |
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War is the third studio album by Irish rock band U2. It was produced by Steve Lillywhite, and was released on 28 February 1983 on Island Records. The album is regarded as U2's first overtly political album. |
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Grey Label Island 108 922
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U2 - With or Without You / Lumionous Times (Hold on to Love) / Walk to the Water ( 1987 ) "With or Without You" is the song by Irish rock band U2. It is the third track from their 1987 album, The Joshua Tree, and was released as the album's first single on 21 March 1987. The song was the group's most successful single at the time, becoming their first number-one hit in the both the United States and Canada |
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YELLO - 1980-1985 The new Mix in One Go (double lp) "1980–1985 The New Mix in One Go" is the compilation album released in 1986 with remixed songs by the Swiss band "YELLO". |
