Scorpions - Virgin Killer ITaly 12" Vinyl LP Album

  Virgin Killer is the fourth studio album by the German heavy metal band Scorpions. It was released in 1976 and was the first album of the band to attract attention outside Europe. The title is described as being a reference to time as the killer of innocence. The original cover featured a nude prepubescent girl, which stirred controversy in the U.K., U.S. and elsewhere. As a result, the album was re-issued with a different cover in some countries.

 

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"Virgin Killer" Album Description:

The year was 1976, and the German heavy metal band Scorpions embarked on a musical journey that would not only shape their career but also stir a maelstrom of controversy. Their fourth studio album, "Virgin Killer," marked a pivotal moment for the band as it catapulted them into international recognition.

Historical Prelude:

"Virgin Killer" not only showcased the band's musical prowess but also delved into thematic elements that sparked debates and raised eyebrows. The album's title itself, a poignant reference to time as the assailant of innocence, hinted at a deeper narrative that would soon captivate listeners worldwide.

Artistic Boldness and Backlash:

However, it was the original album cover that thrust "Virgin Killer" into the eye of a storm. Featuring a provocative image of a nude prepubescent girl, the cover sparked immediate controversy, particularly in the U.K., U.S., and various other regions. The band's artistic boldness collided with societal norms, leading to widespread debates on the fine line between artistic expression and societal sensibilities.

Global Response and Repercussions:

The controversial cover prompted swift action, with some countries opting to reissue the album with an alternative cover to quell the rising storm of public outcry. Despite the controversy, or perhaps fueled by it, "Virgin Killer" managed to resonate with audiences beyond Europe, marking a significant turning point in Scorpions' global trajectory.

Music Genre:

  Teutonic Hard Rock, Heavy Metal Music 

Record Label Information:

  RCA Victor PPL1 4225  

Media Format:

  12" Vinyl LP  Gramophone Record
Album weight: 230 gram  

Year & Country:

  1977 Made in Italy  
Band Members and Musicians on: Scorpions Virgin Killer
    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.

  • Ulrich Roth guitar, vocals

    Ulrich Roth ( also known as Uli Jon Roth ) a German guitar player and best known as the Lead Guitarist of the German Hard Rock / Heavy Metal band "Scorpions". He started his career in a band called "Dawn Road" around 1973. The band-members Uli Jon Roth, Achim Kirschning, Francis Buchholz, Jürgen Rosenthal joined Rudolf Schenker and Klaus Meine to form "Scorpions". Roth was guitarist with "Scorpions" from 1974 until 1977 and formed is proper band "Electric Sun".

  • Rudolf Schenker guitar, vocals

    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.

  • 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.

  • Achim Kirschning synthesizer, keyboards
  • Rudy Lenners percussion, drums

    Rudy Lenners - Drums, Producer, Illustrator is from Belgium and was born in 1952. Lenners has been performing with "Scorpions" from 1975 until 1977. He replaced Jürgen Rosenthal and appeared on two Scorpions albums: "In Trance" and "Virgin Killer", he was replaced by Herman Rarebell in 1977. in 1983 Lenners performed with the Belgian band "Key West" and recorded te album "First Invasion". Later during 1985 he played drums with the "Steelover" band.

Track Listing of: "Virgin Killer"

The Song/tracks on "Virgin Killer" are

  • Pictured Life (Meine, Roth, Schenker) 3:21
  • Catch Your Train (Meine, Schenker) 3:32
  • In Your Park (Meine, Schenker) 3:39
  • Backstage Queen (Meine, Schenker) 3:10
  • Virgin Killer (Roth) 3:41
  • Hell Cat (Roth) 2:54
  • Crying Days (Meine, Schenker) 4:36
  • Polar Nights (Roth) 5:04
  • Yellow Raven (Roth) 4:58
Album cover photos of : Scorpions Virgin Killer
High Resolution Photos of scorpions virgin killer italy    
Photo of "Virgin Killer" Album's Back Cover  

High Resolution Photos of scorpions virgin killer italy  

 

High Resolution Photos of scorpions virgin killer italy    

Note: the above pictures are actual photos of the album and allow you to judge the quality of cover. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash.

Index of SCORPIONS - Vinyl Discography & Album Cover Gallery