SCORPIONS - LOVE AT FIRST STING - France BANNED COVER 12" Vinyl LP

  "Love at First Sting" album. This banned cover, which was only released in France, features a photograph of a couple embracing on a beach, with the woman's breasts partially exposed. The album was later reissued with a different covers for other markets. This is the original album cover, an alternate cover showing a photo of the band members is used in several department store chains since they refused to carry the original album cover art.

 

High Resolution Photos of scorpions love at first sting france

Album Description:

The iconic rock band Scorpions left an indelible mark on the music industry with their chart-topping albums and electrifying performances. Among their most notable releases is "Love at First Sting", an album that captivated audiences worldwide. However, a distinct aspect of this album emerged in several countries, where the original cover art was altered due to its explicit nature.

Released in 1984, the album's original cover featured a captivating photograph of a couple embraced in a passionate moment on a picturesque beach. The image depicted intimacy, with the woman's partially exposed breasts. While artistic expression often invites subjective interpretations, regulatory bodies in multiple countries deemed the album cover as crossing the boundaries of acceptability.

Concerned about potential controversies and the perceived impact on public morality, authorities in several countries requested an alteration of the album's cover art. Consequently, alternative covers were created for these markets, each conforming to the respective cultural sensitivities and regulations.

In France, where the album cover alteration is often erroneously attributed, the original cover art featuring the couple on the beach was not explicitly banned. Instead, it was in numerous other countries that the altered versions of the cover art were introduced to ensure compliance with local standards. The decision to modify the cover art was driven by a desire to prevent any potential objections from conservative groups and regulatory bodies.

Scorpions, renowned for their energetic rock anthems and poignant ballads, did not set out to court controversy with their album art. Nevertheless, they respected the decisions made by authorities and record labels, promptly working on alternative cover designs that would allow the album to be distributed without any legal or cultural issues.

For fans in those specific countries, the altered cover art became the representation of "Love at First Sting". These revised designs maintained the album's overall aesthetic while removing any explicit elements that had been deemed inappropriate. The new covers still captured the essence of the album's themes, ensuring that its spirit remained intact.

Despite the alterations, "Love at First Sting" continued to resonate with fans worldwide. The album's memorable melodies and powerful guitar riffs garnered immense popularity, solidifying its place as a classic in the rock genre. The revised cover art did not overshadow the quality of the music and the band's ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level.

The altered versions of the album cover inadvertently added a layer of intrigue and collectability. These unique designs became sought-after items among collectors and fans who appreciated the album's cultural significance. The diversity in cover art across different countries highlighted the global impact of Scorpions' music and further enhanced the album's appeal.

"Love at First Sting" achieved remarkable commercial success worldwide, selling millions of copies and earning platinum certifications in multiple countries. The album's enduring legacy rests on Scorpions' musical prowess and their ability to create timeless rock music that transcends borders and resonates with diverse audiences.

While the alterations to the album cover may have sparked discussions about artistic expression and cultural sensitivities, they did not diminish the album's lasting impact. "Love at First Sting" stands as a testament to Scorpions' talent and their ability to craft music that transcends boundaries, captivating fans around the world with its raw energy and emotional depth.

Music Genre:

  German Heavy Metal 

Album Production information:

 The album: "Love at First Sting" was produced by: Dieter Dierks for Breeze Music Switzerland.

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.

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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.

Photos by Helmut Newton

Record Label Information:

  Harvest 2400071  

Packaging:

This album "Love at First Sting" includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by and photos of Scorpions.

Media Format:

  12" Vinyl Stereo Full-Length Long-Play  Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+LP) weight: 230 gram  

Year & Country:

  1984 Made in France
Band Members and Musicians on: Scorpions Love at First Sting
    Band-members, Musicians and Performers
  • Klaus Meine - Vocals

    Klaus Meine is a renowned German vocalist and songwriter, best known as the lead singer of the legendary rock band, Scorpions. Born on 25 May 1948, in Hannover, Germany, Meine's powerful and distinctive voice has become synonymous with the band's iconic sound.

    Meine's love for music blossomed at a young age. Inspired by his father's love for jazz and swing, he started singing and playing the guitar during his teenage years. His early influences included vocalists like Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley, who played a significant role in shaping his vocal style.

    In 1965, Klaus Meine joined a local band called Copernicus, where he honed his singing skills and gained valuable experience as a performer. However, his breakthrough came in 1969 when he received an invitation to audition for a band called Scorpions. At that time, Scorpions were a relatively unknown band, but Meine's remarkable vocal range and stage presence impressed the other members, and he became the lead vocalist of the band.

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    Under Meine's leadership, Scorpions went on to achieve international success. Their hard rock sound, infused with melodic ballads and powerful anthems, captivated audiences worldwide. Meine's dynamic voice, with its soaring highs and emotional depth, became a trademark of the band's music.

    Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Scorpions released a series of critically acclaimed albums, including "Lovedrive" (1979), "Blackout" (1982), and "Love at First Sting" (1984). These albums featured hit songs such as "Rock You Like a Hurricane", "No One Like You", and "Still Loving You", which solidified the band's reputation as one of the most influential rock acts of the era.

    Meine's songwriting contributions played a significant role in Scorpions' success. He penned lyrics that resonated with listeners, tackling themes of love, relationships, and societal issues. His heartfelt ballads, such as "Wind of Change" and "Send Me an Angel", became anthems of hope and unity, reaching the top of charts worldwide.

    Despite numerous lineup changes and shifts in the music industry, Meine remained the driving force behind Scorpions. The band continued to release albums and tour extensively, showcasing Meine's remarkable vocal prowess and enduring passion for music.

    In addition to his work with Scorpions, Klaus Meine has also collaborated with other artists. He provided guest vocals for various songs and appeared on projects such as the Michael Schenker Group's album "Written in the Sand" (1996) and the Avantasia rock opera albums.

    Klaus Meine's contributions to music have been widely recognized. He has received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, including the World Music Award for "Legend of Live Music" in 2010. His influence as a vocalist and songwriter extends far beyond Scorpions' dedicated fanbase, and his voice continues to resonate with rock enthusiasts around the world.

    Today, Klaus Meine remains an iconic figure in the rock music scene. His distinctive voice, charismatic stage presence, and enduring talent have cemented his legacy as one of the greatest rock vocalists of all time. As Scorpions continue to captivate audiences and perform live, Meine's contributions to the band and the world of music will always be cherished and remembered.

  • Rudolf Schenker

    Rudolf Schenker is a legendary figure in the world of hard rock and heavy metal. Born on 31 August 1948, in Hildesheim, Germany, he would go on to become the founder, guitarist, and driving force behind the internationally acclaimed band Scorpions. With his distinctive guitar style, songwriting prowess, and occasional vocal contributions, Schenker has left an indelible mark on the music industry.

    Rudolf Schenker's musical journey began in the mid-1960s when he formed Scorpions. As the band's founder, he assembled a group of talented musicians who shared his vision for creating powerful and memorable rock music. Initially drawing influences from bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones, Schenker and his bandmates embarked on a journey to carve out their unique sound.

    Schenker's guitar playing became the centerpiece of Scorpions' music. His style blended elements of hard rock, heavy metal, and classical music, resulting in a distinct and captivating sound. His powerful riffs, melodic solos, and energetic stage presence helped define the band's identity and captivate audiences around the world.

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    As a songwriter, Rudolf Schenker played a crucial role in shaping Scorpions' sound. His contributions to the band's catalog include some of their most iconic hits, such as "Rock You Like a Hurricane," "Wind of Change," and "Still Loving You." These songs, among many others, have become timeless classics and continue to resonate with fans across generations.

    While primarily known as a guitarist, Schenker also showcased his vocal abilities on various occasions. His raw and passionate voice added an extra layer of intensity to the band's performances. His vocals can be heard on songs like "Catch Your Train" and "As Soon as the Good Times Roll," where he delivered memorable performances.

    Throughout his career, Rudolf Schenker has been an influential figure in the German hard rock and heavy metal scene. His contributions to the genre have helped shape its evolution and inspired countless musicians. In recognition of his exceptional talent and influence, Schenker was inducted into the Guitar World Hall of Fame in 2014, a testament to his enduring legacy.

    Beyond his musical endeavors, Schenker shares a familial bond with his brother, Michael Schenker, who is also a renowned guitarist, and his sister, Barbara Schenker. The Schenker siblings have all made significant contributions to the world of rock music, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.

    Notably, Rudolf Schenker has developed a close association with the German guitar maker Dommenget. He uses guitars crafted by the renowned manufacturer, which have become synonymous with his distinctive sound and playing style.

    With a career spanning several decades, Rudolf Schenker's impact on rock music cannot be overstated. As a founding member of Scorpions, he has played an instrumental role in the band's success and enduring popularity. His virtuosic guitar playing, songwriting abilities, and charismatic stage presence have cemented his status as one of the most important figures in the history of German hard rock and heavy metal.

    - Guitars
  • Matthias Jabs - Guitars

      Matthias Jabs guitarist, and a member of the hard rock band Scorpions. He was born on 25 October 1955, in Hannover, Germany.

     Jabs joined Scorpions in 1978, and quickly established himself as one of the band's signature guitarists. Over the years, he has contributed to many of Scorpions' most famous songs, including "Rock You Like a Hurricane," "Still Loving You," and "Wind of Change." With his distinctive playing style, Jabs has helped Scorpions become one of the biggest and most influential hard rock bands of all time.

     In addition to his work with Scorpions, Jabs has also collaborated with other musicians and released several solo albums. He has been recognized for his musical skills with several awards and honors, including being ranked among the top 100 greatest guitarists of all time by various music magazines and websites.

     Outside of music, Jabs is known for his passion for aviation, and he holds a private pilot's license. He is also a trained helicopter pilot, and has used his skills to support various charitable causes.

     Overall, Matthias Jabs is a highly regarded musician and guitarist, who has left a lasting impact on the world of hard rock and heavy metal.

  • Francis Buchholz - Bass

    Francis Buchholz - Bass guitar player from Hannover, Germany and was born in 1954. Buchholz started his musical career , together with Ulrich Roth and Hans-Jurgen Rosenthal, during 1972 in a band called "Dawn Road". "Dawn Road" dismantled around 1974 and members joined "Scorpions". Buchholz performed with the Scorpions from 1973 until 1992. Playing on many of their most popular albums, including "Lovedrive" (1979), "Blackout" (1982), and "Love at First Sting" (1984). Buchholz is regarded as one of the best bass guitarists in heavy metal and his playing style, characterized by its melodic phrasing and rhythmic drive, has been a major influence on many other musicians in the genre.

  • Herman Rarebell - Drums

      Herman Rarebell (Real-name: Hermann Josef Erbel) a German drummer, ands a member of the hard rock band Scorpions. He was born on November 11, 1949, in Frankfurt, Germany.

      Rarebell joined Scorpions in 1977, and played with the band until 1995. During his time with Scorpions, he contributed to several of the band's most famous albums, including "Taken by Force," "Lovedrive," and "Animal Magnetism." With his powerful drumming style, Rarebell helped define Scorpions' sound and establish them as one of the leading hard rock bands of the 1970s and 1980s.

      In addition to his work with Scorpions, Rarebell has also collaborated with other musicians and released several solo albums. He is also known for his contributions to the world of drumming, and has been recognized for his musical skills with several awards and honors.

      After leaving Scorpions, Rarebell continued to perform and record music, and remains active in the music industry to this day. He is widely regarded as one of the best drummers in the history of hard rock and heavy metal, and is admired by fans and fellow musicians alike.

      Overall, Herman Rarebell is a talented musician and drummer, who has left a lasting impact on the world of hard rock and heavy metal.

Track Listing of: "Love at First Sting"
    Tracks:
  1. Bad Boys Running Wild (Meine/Rarebell/Schenker) 3:54
  2. Rock You Like a Hurricane (Meine/Rarebell/Schenker) 4:11
  3. I'm Leaving You (Meine/Schenker) 4:16
  4. Coming Home (Meine/Schenker) 4:58
  5. Same Thrill (Meine/Schenker) 3:30
  6. Big City Nights (Meine/Schenker) 4:08
  7. As Soon as the Good Times Roll (Meine/Schenker) 5:01
  8. Crossfire (Meine/Schenker) 4:31
  9. Still Loving You (Meine/Schenker) 6:26
Album cover photos of : Scorpions Love at First Sting
High Resolution Photos of scorpions love at first sting france    
Back Cover  Photo of "Love at First Sting" Album
High Resolution Photos of scorpions love at first sting france  
Photo of Scorpions on the Inner Cover   of "Love at First Sting" Album

High Resolution Photos of scorpions love at first sting france  

High Resolution Photos of scorpions love at first sting france  

High Resolution Photos of scorpions love at first sting france    

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.

Index of SCORPIONS - Vinyl Discography & Album Cover Gallery

  Scorpions is a German rock band that was formed in 1965 in Hanover, Germany. The band's original lineup consisted of Klaus Meine (vocals), Rudolf Schenker (guitar), Matthias Jabs (guitar), Francis Buchholz (bass), and Herman Rarebell (drums). The band's early years were spent playing in clubs and bars in Germany, and they released their first album, "Lonesome Crow," in 1972.

 In the following years, Scorpions released several successful albums, including "Fly to the Rainbow" (1974), "In Trance" (1975), and "Taken by Force" (1977). The band gained international fame in the 1980s with the release of the albums "Animal" (1982) and "Blackout" (1982). These albums produced several hit songs, including "No One Like You," "Rock You Like a Hurricane," and "Still Loving You."

 In the 1990s, Scorpions released several more successful albums, including "Crazy World" (1990) and "Face the Heat" (1993). The band also gained a new generation of fans with the release of their power ballad "Wind of Change," which became a hit in many countries and was written by Scorpions lead singer Klaus Meine.

 In 2015 Scorpions announced that their 17th studio album "Return to Forever" would be their last one, and that they would retire from touring after the album's release. However, in 2018 the band announced a new album, "Born to Touch Your Feelings - Best of Rock Ballads" and a world tour.

 Throughout their career, Scorpions has sold over 100 million records worldwide and has received numerous awards and accolades for their contributions to the music industry. They are considered one of the most successful German rock bands of all time.


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