In This Article
Here are 10 of the most iconic album covers of the 21st century that have defined their genres and captured the zeitgeist. Each cover tells a story that goes far beyond the music itself.
Radiohead - Kid A (2000)
The dawn of experimental electronic rock
The abstract and unsettling artwork for "Kid A", created by Stanley Donwood and Thom Yorke, perfectly mirrored the album's experimental and electronic sound—a departure from their previous work.
The dystopian, computer-generated landscapes captured the anxieties of a new millennium, while the fragmented imagery reflected the band's move away from traditional rock structures into uncharted sonic territory.
The Strokes - Is This It (2001)
The controversial cover that defined indie rock cool
The original "glove on buttocks" cover, shot by Colin Lane, was deemed too controversial for the US market but became an instant classic elsewhere. It's a perfect example of effortless, provocative cool that matched the band's sound and aesthetic.
"The cover perfectly captured the raw, unapologetic energy of early 2000s New York rock scene."
Kendrick Lamar - To Pimp a Butterfly (2015)
A powerful statement on race and politics
The black-and-white photo of a group of black men and children celebrating on the White House lawn is a powerful statement on race, politics, and power in America. It's a triumphant and defiant image that perfectly encapsulates the album's themes of identity, struggle, and hope.
The Power of Visual Storytelling
These iconic covers prove that great album art is more than decoration—it's a gateway to understanding the music and the cultural moment it represents.