Photographer Gered Mankowitz Shares Stories Behind Iconic Music Portraits

Photographer Gered Mankowitz, a prominent figure in music photography for six decades, is celebrating his 80th birthday by sharing the intimate stories behind his most iconic portraits of 20th-century artists. His extensive body of work, which captures the essence of musical legends, has become deeply ingrained in pop culture history. These images are featured in his new book, "Gered Mankowitz: Photographs," published by ACC Art Books, and are also exhibited at the Iconic Images Gallery in London.

Mankowitz is renowned for his ability to foster trusting relationships with his subjects, allowing him to capture candid and powerful moments. Among the artists he has photographed are Elton John, Jimi Hendrix, Annie Lennox, and members of bands like The Rolling Stones and Wham!. His portrait of a young Sade, taken during the period of her debut album "Diamond Life," is particularly notable, with Mankowitz recalling that the singer "wasn't particularly friendly" during the session, a detail that adds a layer of complexity to the seemingly serene image. Similarly, his work with Eurythmics, especially Annie Lennox, highlights his skill in capturing the artist's persona and the era's aesthetic.

The photographer's career began in the early 1960s, and he quickly established himself by working with some of the most influential musicians of the time. His early assignments included documenting The Rolling Stones during their formative years, providing a visual record of their rise to fame. He also captured the electrifying presence of Jimi Hendrix, whose image became synonymous with the psychedelic rock era. Mankowitz's approach was not just about documenting appearances but about understanding and conveying the artist's spirit and the cultural context of their music. His long-standing relationships with artists allowed him to create a visual archive that transcends simple celebrity photography, offering insights into the creative process and the personalities behind the music.

His collaboration with Elton John resulted in some of the singer's most enduring images, capturing his flamboyant stage presence and evolving style. Mankowitz's lens also focused on the raw energy of bands like Wham!, documenting the vibrant pop culture of the 1980s. The book "Gered Mankowitz: Photographs" serves as a comprehensive retrospective of his career, showcasing a diverse range of subjects and styles, from the gritty authenticity of rock and roll to the polished glamour of pop. The collection underscores his significant contribution to music history, immortalizing artists who shaped global music trends and visual culture. The exhibition at Iconic Images Gallery further solidifies his legacy, offering the public an opportunity to engage with these seminal works of art.