- Unveiling the Secrets of Scorpions' Iconic 'Blackout' Album! From Vocal Cord Drama to Studio Triumphs
"Blackout" the 1982 masterpiece by Scorpions, remains a pivotal moment in rock history. Faced with challenges, the band crafted an album that blended hard rock and heavy metal, producing anthems like "No One Like You." The iconic cover art and European release's unique inner sleeve added to its allure, making "Blackout" a timeless classic.This web page has photos of album covers, inner sleeves, record labels together with production details, musicians and track-listing.
The year was 1982, a time when rock music was reaching new heights globally. In the heart of Germany, the iconic rock band Scorpions embarked on a journey that would lead to the creation of one of their most celebrated albums - "Blackout."
Historical Prelude:
"Blackout" marked a significant chapter in Scorpions' discography, known for its powerful sound and memorable tracks. Released on March 29, 1982, the album showcased the band's evolution, blending hard rock with a touch of heavy metal. The title track, "Blackout," became an anthem of the era, with its electrifying guitar riffs and Klaus Meine's distinctive vocals.
Studio Chronicles:
The recording process was not without challenges. During the sessions, Klaus Meine faced vocal cord issues, leading to a temporary halt in recording. Despite this setback, the band persevered, and Meine's recovery marked a triumphant return to the studio.
Musical Alchemy:
"Blackout" comprised a dynamic mix of tracks, including the anthemic "No One Like You" and the adrenaline-pumping "Dynamite." Rudolf Schenker's guitar work and the tight rhythm section provided a sonic foundation that resonated with fans worldwide.
Legacy and Impact:
"Blackout" solidified Scorpions' status as a powerhouse in the rock genre. Its timeless appeal continues to influence generations of rock enthusiasts, cementing its place as a classic in the rock music pantheon.
Trivia: After losing his voice during the writing of the album, lead vocalist Klaus Meine had to undergo surgery on his vocal cords and it was uncertain whether he would be able to record it. Rudolf Schenker could not choose between his guitar solos on "China White", so the US and European releases differed in this small detail. A self-portrait of artist Gottfried Helnwein is featured on the cover of the album. Rudolf Schenker portrays this character in the "No One Like You" music video. . |
Music Genre: German hard Rock, Heavy Metal |
Album Production information: The album: "SCORPIONS - Blackout incl custom Inner Sleeve (DE)" was produced by: Dieter Dierks for Breeze Music Dieter Dierks is a German record producer and sound engineer, best known for his work in the music industry. He was born on 19 June 1944, in Stollberg, Germany. Dierks is a highly regarded figure in the German music scene, and has been involved in the production and engineering of many successful albums and songs. He has worked with a wide range of artists and genres, including rock, pop, folk, and electronic music. One of his most famous collaborations was with the hard rock band Scorpions, for whom he produced and engineered several albums in the 1970s and 1980s, including "Taken by Force," "Lovedrive," and "Animal Magnetism." These albums helped establish Scorpions as one of the leading hard rock bands of the era, and are widely regarded as classic examples of the genre. In addition to his work as a producer and engineer, Dierks is also known for his contributions to the field of recording technology. He has been involved in the development of several new recording techniques and technologies, and has been recognized for his contributions to the industry. Overall, Dieter Dierks is a talented and influential figure in the world of music production and engineering, who has made a significant impact on the German and international music scenes. Sound/Recording Engineer(s): Gerd Rautenbach This album was recorded at: Dierks recording Mobile Album cover design: Gottfried Heinwein Album cover photography: Robert Ellis Robert Ellis is a highly accomplished British photographer renowned for his exceptional work in the field of music photography. With a career spanning several decades, Ellis has captured iconic moments and personalities in the music industry, leaving an indelible mark on the visual representation of music culture. His work has been prominently featured in esteemed publications such as NME (New Musical Express), Melody Maker, Kerrang, and Sounds, earning him widespread recognition and acclaim. Born and raised in the United Kingdom, Robert Ellis developed an early passion for photography and music. In the 1970s, he embarked on his professional journey as a photographer, immersing himself in the vibrant music scene of the era. Ellis quickly established himself as a talented and versatile photographer, capturing the energy, spirit, and raw emotion of live performances. Ellis's keen eye and ability to capture the essence of musicians in their element soon caught the attention of leading music-related publications. His work became highly sought after, and he started receiving assignments from prestigious magazines, including NME, Melody Maker, Kerrang, and Sounds. These publications were instrumental in shaping the music culture and disseminating information about emerging and established artists, making Ellis's photographs an integral part of the narrative. Throughout his career, Robert Ellis had the opportunity to photograph numerous influential musicians, bands, and artists. From capturing intimate portraits of legendary figures such as David Bowie, Freddie Mercury, and Mick Jagger to documenting the explosive energy of performances by bands like Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, and The Clash, Ellis consistently delivered stunning images that resonated with audiences worldwide. One of Ellis's notable strengths as a photographer was his ability to establish a rapport with his subjects, putting them at ease and capturing their authentic selves. His photographs often reflected the deep connection he formed with the artists, revealing the vulnerability and passion behind their public personas. Whether in the chaos of a live concert or the stillness of a backstage moment, Ellis's images told stories that transcended the music itself, creating a visual legacy that would endure for years to come. |
Record Label Information: Harvest 1C 064-64 686 |
Packaging: This album "SCORPIONS - Blackout incl custom Inner Sleeve (DE)" includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by and artwork/photos |
Media Format: 12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram |
Year & Country: 1982 Made in Germany |
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: SCORPIONS - Blackout incl custom Inner Sleeve (DE) |
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Complete Track-listing of the album "SCORPIONS - Blackout incl custom Inner Sleeve (DE)" |
The detailed tracklist of this record "SCORPIONS - Blackout incl custom Inner Sleeve (DE)" is:
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High Quality Photo of Album Front Cover "SCORPIONS - Blackout incl custom Inner Sleeve (DE)" |
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Photo of "SCORPIONS - Blackout incl custom Inner Sleeve (DE)" Album's Inner Sleeve |
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Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. |