“The Cover of ‘Rolling Stone’,” released in 1972 by Dr. Hook & The Medicine Show, is a satirical and undeniably catchy anthem about the pursuit of fame and notoriety. Dr. Hook, fronted by the distinctive vocals of Dennis Locorriere and sporting the memorable eye patch of Ray Sawyer (later removed), was a novelty rock band known for their humorous lyrics and eclectic blend of genres including country, rock, and pop. While they didn’t rack up a plethora of prestigious awards, Dr. Hook consistently charted throughout the 70s and early 80s, finding considerable success with songs like “Sylvia’s Mother,” “When You’re in Love with a Beautiful Woman,” and “Sharing the Night Together.” “The Cover of ‘Rolling Stone’,” however, stands out for its witty social commentary and its almost meta-narrative.
The song chronicles the band’s desperate desire to grace the cover of the iconic magazine, believing it to be the ultimate symbol of rock and roll success and acceptance. The lyrics playfully suggest that achieving this goal will instantly grant them access to lavish parties, groupies, and general rock star indulgence. While humorous on the surface, the song subtly critiques the superficiality of fame and the lengths artists might go to for recognition.
Upon its release, “The Cover of ‘Rolling Stone'” became an immediate hit, reaching number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100. It resonated with audiences who understood the tongue-in-cheek portrayal of the music industry. Interestingly, *Rolling Stone* magazine itself initially hesitated to feature Dr. Hook on their cover, fearing that doing so would be too on-the-nose. However, in 1973, they finally relented, putting the band on the cover in cartoon form, subtly acknowledging the song’s cultural impact and its commentary on the magazine’s own influence. The song remains a beloved classic, a testament to Dr. Hook’s quirky brilliance and its enduring message about the allure and absurdity of fame.