After my first album was released on Passport Records, I gave thought to all the people that inspired me. I thought of all the musicians but then remembered how much Roger Dean had spurred my imagination. I had both of his books and his artwork hung all over my room as a kid and into my 20s. The Yes show designs of '74-76 were enough to make him an icon alone in my eyes. What a grand design inside of his mind! I wanted to thank him for his vision and inspiration so I sent him a copy of my CD with a letter of thanks and praise. A pleasant surprise to receive this hand written note from the wizard maker himself saying that he enjoyed my music as well and offering to do a cover too!. Very cool and gracious. A couple of years later I met with my manager about talking with Mr. Dean about doing an album cover for me. I searched his number out and nervously rang him up. To my total surprise, he answered the phone. He apologized for his voice as he said he had a cold. A very pleasant conversation ensued. I came to ask him of the price of a custom album cover for my next release and ....hold the phone ..it was as much as my whole recording budget! Wow! But it was awesome to speak with him in any regard. I had the chance to thank him for his vision and great work. I have now started to do my own album covers in Photoshop and maybe it's just me, but I think I like 'em! And ...they're free! But someday....
