Whitesnake's Lovehunter: A Deep Dive into the Band's Second Album and Controversial Artwork
Whitesnake achieved success with their 1979 album Lovehunter, the band's second full-length release. Formed in 1978 by David Coverdale after leaving Deep Purple, Whitesnake included members like Bernie Marsden, Micky Moody, Neil Murray, and David ‘Duck’ Dowle. Lovehunter was recorded at Clearwell Castle with producer Martin Birch, known for his work with Deep Purple. The album showcased a more cohesive set of songs and marked a significant step forward for the band.
Working at Clearwell Castle, Whitesnake crafted songs like "Walking In The Shadow Of The Blues," a blend of blues, hard rock, and melody that became a staple in their live performances. The album also featured tracks like "Medicine Man" and "You And Me," which were either rehearsed or composed on the spot during the recording process. The album concluded with the heartfelt track "We Wish You Well," leaving a lasting impression on listeners.
Lovehunter's controversial title track and album cover stirred up controversy due to its provocative imagery. The album's front cover, illustrated by Chris Achilleos, depicted a naked woman with a giant serpent, causing a stir among critics and fans alike. Coverdale's lyrics and the album's artwork sparked debates about sexism and rock 'n' roll imagery, with the band defending their artistic choices.
Despite the controversy surrounding Lovehunter, the album was a commercial success, reaching the Top 30 in the UK. Whitesnake's lineup changes, including the addition of drummer Ian Paice, led to speculation about a Deep Purple reunion. The band's evolution and success with albums like Ready An’ Willing and Come An’ Get It showcased their growth and musical prowess.
Looking back on Lovehunter, Bernie Marsden reflected on the band's collaborative spirit and the creative process behind the album. While Coverdale's comments about the album being condensed into an EP raised eyebrows, Marsden emphasized the importance of the band's collective effort in creating memorable music. Despite any criticisms, Lovehunter and Whitesnake's early albums laid the foundation for their future success and enduring legacy in the rock music scene.