Rick James the Conqueror: Revisiting the Style of 1982′s Throwin’ Down

Though perhaps most well known to the Millennial Generation from Dave Chappelle’s hysterically funny series of skits from 2003, Rick James in his prime was a musical and creative tour de force. Most famous for hits such as “Give It to Me, Baby,” “You and I” and “Mary Jane,” James was a pioneer in the fusion of rock and funk styles.

To commemorate the 30th anniversary of Rick James’ 1982 album, Throwin’ Down, Creative Allies has teamed up with the musician’s estate (Rick James passed away in 2004) to give artists, designers and fans a chance to create an official commemorative T-shirt for Throwin’ Down.

To give tee designers some background and inspiration, we took a look at the style of the self-proclaimed “King of Punk Funk.”

Hedonistic and larger than life, Rick James became a superstar after the release of his LP Come and Get It in 1978. Onstage James was known for huge productions replete with elaborate light shows, shoulder pads, lots of sequins and a healthy dose of glitter. For reference, check out James’ Throwin’ Down music video.

Rick James’ previous album covers leading up to the 1982 release of Throwin’ Down all showcase a love of anything leather and outlandish, but the Conan the Barbarian theme of the 1982 release was an adventurous departure even for James.

The album cover pictures the frontman in animal skins and leather boots, clutching a shield and an axe-shaped Kramer bass. He’s got treasure, skulls, bubbling cauldrons and fire to complete the image. The influence here is clear: Conan the Barbarian was also released in 1982 and was the movie that earned Arnold Schwarzenegger international recognition. His previous albums do have some stylized art, such as 1979′s Bustin’ out of L Seven and 1980′s Garden of Love, but Throwin’ Down was the first time James had been photographed in such a bold, fantastical way.

Music critics were delighted with the album, naming it R&B Album of The Year. The album artwork has attained cult status, even being named as one of the 25 Most Badass Fantasy Album Covers. Designers interested in entering a T-shirt in the Creative Allies design contest might want to keep in mind some of the overall themes in Rick James’ style: long, braided hair, colorful leather, lots of sequins, high-heeled boots, etc. To commemorate Throwin’ Down in particular, how about incorporating some battle-axe instruments? Shields and skulls? A couple of quarts of oil for that glistening abs effect?

Just remember, you’re not required to picture the man himself. If you think your design is an outrageous image Rick James would have approved of, go for it!

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Submit your larger-than-life tee design for the Rick James T-Shirt Design Contest on Creative Allies. One winner will score $500 and a Rick James prize pack.