Why Did Iron Maiden Stop Using Derek Riggs for Their Artwork?
Iron Maiden, one of the most iconic bands in heavy metal, made a significant shift in their album artwork when they stopped using Derek Riggs' distinctive style. This decision was driven by a desire for fresh artistic directions and part of a broader trend in the music industry. Let's delve into the reasons behind this change and explore how it impacted the band's visual legacy.
Seeking Fresh Artistic Directions
The primary reason Iron Maiden chose to move away from Derek Riggs' artwork was their aspiration for a new, fresh artistic direction. Riggs had been the band's main illustrator for many years, creating iconic covers for albums like British Steel, No Prayer for the Dying, and Number of the Beast. However, with artists like Melvyn Grant and Tim Bradstreet, the band sought to infuse a new perspective into their visual identity.
Broad Industry Trends and Legacy
Beyond the desire for innovation, Iron Maiden's decision to explore different artists reflects a broader trend observed in the music industry. Other bands were also experimenting with various illustrators to keep their images evolving. Fans and critics alike appreciate the band's commitment to artistic growth, understanding that creative stagnation is often the enemy of vitality and innovation.
Despite this shift, the impact and significance of Riggs' work on Iron Maiden's legacy remain undeniable. His designs are still celebrated and cherished. Eddie, the iconic face of Iron Maiden, was created by Riggs himself. When the band first started using a face, it was just a mask with eyes, before Riggs brought Eddie to life. Riggs' contributions are a fundamental part of the band's identity, even as they embraced new artistic visions.
Manager's Input and Artistic Constraints
It's important to note that Iron Maiden’s manager, Rod Smallwood, also played a significant role in this decision. Smallwood believed that the grave digger's face on the No Prayer for the Dying cover looked too cartoonish and was too childlike for the band's image. This concern may have stemmed from the similarity of the grave digger's face to Smallwood, but the reason for his dissatisfaction likely had more to do with the overall aesthetic they were seeking.
Single Covers Since 1992: Riggs has indeed created some single covers and even worked on some solo albums for Bruce Dickinson after his main run with Iron Maiden ended following the Fear of the Dark album. However, subsequent collaborations were limited. No Prayer for the Dying Re-release: The 1998 re-release of No Prayer for the Dying featured a cover without the grave digger, reflecting the artistic direction they were pursuing.Artistic Evolution and the Darker Edge
The transition from Riggs to other artists like Melvyn Grant (for Fear of the Dark) marked not just a stylistic change but an artistic evolution reflecting the band's general trend towards a more darker and sinister sound. The Fear of the Dark cover was more sinister and menacing, aligning with the band's new sound. This shift was carried through the following two albums as well.
It's worth noting that while the band was evolving artistically, their relationship with Riggs remained friendly. The band's long-standing support for Riggs, as well as other longtime members, shows that while there may have been changes in the artwork, the family atmosphere of Iron Maiden remained intact. The band's artistic director, Steve Harris, has always appreciated Riggs' work, and the legacy of Riggs' contributions to the band's visual identity is undeniably significant.