Brian Cannon is a name that may not be familiar to everyone, but his work has been seen and admired by millions. As a designer and art director, Cannon has been a key figure in the music industry for the past 30 years, working with some of the biggest names in British rock and roll. From Oasis to The Verve to Cast, Cannon’s creative vision has helped shape the iconic images of these bands and many more.
Cannon’s journey in the world of music began in the late 1980s when he joined the graphic design team at Creation Records, a label that would go on to become synonymous with the Britpop movement. It was here that he first worked with Oasis, designing the cover for their debut album “Definitely Maybe”. The striking image of a young girl smoking a cigarette became an instant classic and set the tone for the band’s rebellious and edgy image.
From there, Cannon’s career took off and he became one of the most sought-after designers in the music industry. His work with Oasis continued, with him creating the iconic “What’s the Story) Morning Glory?” album cover, which featured the band’s name in bold letters against a simple white background. This cover became one of the most recognizable and imitated album covers of all time.
But it wasn’t just Oasis that Cannon worked with. He also collaborated with other big names in the Britpop scene, such as The Verve and Cast. For The Verve’s album “Urban Hymns”, Cannon designed a simple yet powerful cover featuring a photograph of a man walking down a street, which perfectly captured the mood and themes of the album. And for Cast’s album “All Change”, he created a vibrant and colorful cover that perfectly reflected the band’s upbeat and energetic sound.
Cannon’s work goes beyond just album covers. He has also designed merchandise, tour posters, and stage sets for various bands, always bringing his unique and creative touch to each project. His designs have become an integral part of the music industry, with many fans collecting and cherishing his work as much as the music itself.
What sets Cannon apart from other designers is his ability to capture the essence of a band and translate it into a visual form. He understands the importance of creating a strong and memorable image for a band, one that will resonate with their fans and stand the test of time. His designs are not just aesthetically pleasing, but they also tell a story and evoke emotions, making them an integral part of the overall music experience.
Cannon’s impact on the music industry goes beyond just his designs. He has also been a mentor and inspiration to many young designers, encouraging them to think outside the box and push the boundaries of creativity. His passion for music and design is infectious, and he continues to inspire and influence the next generation of designers.
As he celebrates 30 years in the industry, Cannon’s legacy is undeniable. His work has become a part of British music history, and his designs continue to be celebrated and admired by fans and artists alike. He has left an indelible mark on the music industry, and his contributions will be remembered for years to come.
In a world where music and art are constantly evolving, Brian Cannon’s work remains timeless. His designs have stood the test of time and continue to inspire new generations. As he continues to work with new and emerging artists, we can only imagine what other iconic designs he has in store for us. One thing is for sure, Brian Cannon’s name will forever be synonymous with great music and great design.
