Renowned album cover designer Ioannis, celebrated for his unforgettable contributions to the visual identity of rock music, has passed away at the age of 66.
Famous for creating iconic artwork for legendary bands including Bon Jovi and Deep Purple, Ioannis died on April 7, 2025.
His family announced the heartbreaking news in a tribute posted on an online memorial, honoring his life and legacy.
“With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Ioannis — our beloved artist, husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle, and friend — who has journeyed to the great beyond,” the message read.
The obituary conveyed both grief and appreciation, acknowledging the deep admiration for his work: “The outpouring of love for his art brings us great comfort.”
Reflecting on his unrelenting passion and creative spirit, his family wrote: “There were so many projects Ioannis was excited about and so many ideas he was eager to bring to life.”
They also shared their intention to preserve and continue his artistic vision: “As a family, we have been entrusted with his legacy — and that is what we will honor. His energy lives on through his extraordinary art.”
Born in Athens, Greece, Ioannis Vasilopoulos moved to the United States in 1967.
His early exposure to both music and animation during childhood laid the foundation for a career that would merge the two into striking visual art.
While still in college, he began designing album covers and soon found himself directing his first MTV music video for Art In America.
Over his prolific career, Ioannis created more than 350 album covers, collaborating with major acts such as Bon Jovi, Deep Purple, Skid Row, Starship, Blue Öyster Cult, and others.
His influence extended beyond cover art – he worked on major projects with industry giants like Sony Music, Universal, and Virgin Records.
He even contributed to the book Get the Led Out about Led Zeppelin, co-written by Martin Popoff and Denny Somach.
His art was showcased in numerous exhibitions across the U.S., and he remained active in the scene, selling his work globally up until his passing.
Born in Athens, Greece, Ioannis Vasilopoulos moved to the United States in 1967.
His early exposure to both music and animation during childhood laid the foundation for a career that would merge the two into striking visual art.
While still in college, he began designing album covers and soon found himself directing his first MTV music video for Art In America.
Over his prolific career, Ioannis created more than 350 album covers, collaborating with major acts such as Bon Jovi, Deep Purple, Skid Row, Starship, Blue Öyster Cult, and others.
His influence extended beyond cover art – he worked on major projects with industry giants like Sony Music, Universal, and Virgin Records.
He even contributed to the book Get the Led Out about Led Zeppelin, co-written by Martin Popoff and Denny Somach.
His art was showcased in numerous exhibitions across the U.S., and he remained active in the scene, selling his work globally up until his passing.
Friends, colleagues, and fans alike mourned his loss.
Patrick Prince, editor of Goldmine Magazine, remarked: “Ioannis was a wonderfully generous person and a dear friend. His talent as an artist was limitless…
“He gave 100 per cent dedication to the project, representing that specific artist.”
Ioannis is survived by his wife Lisa, daughter Maria, son-in-law Conor, grandchildren Henry and Jack, his brother George, and other close family members.
