The 1970 release of Guess Who's "American Woman" is an iconic gatefold Dynagroove 12" vinyl LP album. This record catapulted the Canadian rock band to international success. Led by the powerful vocals of Burton Cummings, the title track "American Woman" became a timeless rock anthem. This web page has photos of album covers, inner sleeves, record labels together with production details, musicians and track-listing.
Album Description: The Guess Who's "American Woman" gatefold Dynagroove 12" vinyl LP album is a legendary piece of music history. Released in 1970, this record marked a significant milestone for the Canadian rock band, propelling them to global recognition and solidifying their place in the world of rock music. With the dynamic vocals of Burton Cummings at the helm, the album's title track, "American Woman", became an enduring rock anthem that resonates to this day.The gatefold design of the album cover was a testament to the artistic attention given to this release. Opening up the gatefold revealed a visually striking and thought-provoking collage of images that captured the essence of the era. The album cover featured the band members, dressed in their signature 1970s attire, exuding a sense of coolness and rebellious spirit. This cover art added another layer to the album's appeal, creating a visual representation that mirrored the raw energy and attitude found within the music itself. The term "Dynagroove" referred to a sound enhancement technology developed by RCA Records during that time. This technique aimed to improve the fidelity and dynamic range of vinyl records, providing a more immersive listening experience. The Dynagroove process involved using advanced mastering techniques and equipment to optimize the audio quality of the record. As a result, the Guess Who's "American Woman" album benefited from this technology, delivering a rich and vibrant sound that elevated the impact of the band's performances. However, it was the music contained within the grooves of this LP that truly captivated audiences around the world. The title track, "American Woman", emerged as the album's standout hit and remains one of the most recognizable songs in rock history. The song's gritty guitar riffs, pulsating rhythm section, and Cummings' powerful vocals coalesced into an irresistible force of rock 'n' roll. "American Woman" exuded a rebellious energy and social commentary that struck a chord with listeners, capturing the spirit of a generation and reflecting the sociopolitical climate of the time. Beyond the iconic title track, the album showcased the Guess Who's musical versatility and songwriting prowess. Tracks like "No Time" and "No Sugar Tonight/New Mother Nature" displayed the band's ability to craft catchy hooks and memorable melodies while exploring diverse musical styles. The album seamlessly blended elements of rock, blues, and pop, forging a distinct sound that became synonymous with the Guess Who's brand. The success of "American Woman" propelled the Guess Who to new heights, both critically and commercially. The album reached the top of the charts in the United States, solidifying the band's presence in the American music scene. It also earned them a Juno Award for "Best Selling Album" and paved the way for their subsequent achievements. The song "American Woman" has been covered by several notable artists over the years. One of the most famous cover versions was recorded by the American rock band Lenny Kravitz in 1999. Kravitz's rendition achieved significant commercial success and brought the song back into the mainstream consciousness. Other artists who have covered "American Woman" include Krokus, Butthole Surfers, and Bon Jovi, among others. The song's timeless appeal and powerful message have made it a popular choice for musicians looking to pay tribute to its iconic status.
The original album "American Woman" by the Guess Who has the best version of the song "American Woman" |
Music Genre: Classic Rock |
Producers: Produced by Nimbus 9 & Jack Richardson, recorded at RCA's Mid-America Recording Center |
Packaging: Gatefold cover design, inner gatefold contains complete lyrics of all songs on "American Woman" |
Record Label Information: RCA LSP-4266 , Dynagroove |
Vinyl Record Format: 12" Vinyl LP Gramophone Record |
Year and Country: 1970, Made in the USA |
Track Listing of: GUESS WHO AMERICAN WOMAN, GATEFOLD DYNAGROOVE |
Note: The photos on this page are taken from albums in my personal collection. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ).
"American Woman" Record Label Details: RCA Victor LSP-4266 (XPRS-6641)