The 20th century witnessed the birth of the LP, and with it the phenomenon of the record sleeve—the canvas for many of the most inspired and loved images ever created. Millions of people buy albums and CDs not just for the songs, but also for the artwork, which stands as a visual representation of everything the music means to the listener. Written by record cover designer and art historian Professor Nicholas de Ville, this unique volume, dedicated to the most unforgettable album art ever created, is unparalleled in its detail and scope. It provides the first visual history of the album cover and of the designers, recording artists, and record companies associated with the greatest graphics of all time.