“The Cover of ‘Rolling Stone’,” a comedic country rock gem released in 1972, is a quintessential Dr. Hook and the Medicine Show anthem. Dr. Hook, as they were later known, was a band formed in Union City, New Jersey, fronted by the charismatic Dennis Locorriere and the eye-patched guitarist Ray Sawyer. Known for their blend of quirky humor, catchy melodies, and a distinct stage presence, they achieved mainstream success throughout the 70s with hits like “Sylvia’s Mother,” “A Little Bit More,” and “When You’re in Love with a Beautiful Woman.” While “The Cover of ‘Rolling Stone'” didn’t top the charts initially, reaching number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100, it became their signature song and a cultural touchstone.
The song itself is a satirical commentary on the pursuit of fame and the perceived validation offered by appearing on the cover of *Rolling Stone* magazine. The lyrics detail the band’s desperate attempts to become famous enough to grace the coveted cover, promising outrageous behavior to garner attention. They humorously propose drug use, promiscuity, and general outlandishness, all in the name of achieving rock ‘n’ roll notoriety.
“The Cover of ‘Rolling Stone'” resonated deeply with audiences, who saw the song as a lighthearted yet insightful critique of the music industry and the allure of celebrity. Its self-deprecating humor and infectious chorus made it an instant favorite. Interestingly, the irony wasn’t lost on *Rolling Stone* itself, who initially refused to put Dr. Hook on the cover until 1973, albeit with a caricature version due to the band’s “unphotogenic” nature at the time. This further solidified the song’s legendary status and cemented its place in pop culture history as a witty observation on the absurdity of fame.
