Barbara Kruger, whose work was really getting a lot of exposure at the time, was someone we thought could really bring power to a difficult cover subject. I think she nailed it.

Steven Meisel took this photo of Madonna. He did the shoot, and just sent us this photo. I agree with him totally. It's perfect.

Ross Perot was really in the news, and the late Julian Allen did a great job of conveying the complexity and mystery of the man.

This s a wonderful hand-tinted photo of Elvis. I can't remember the photographer or the artist who hand-colored it, but it's always been one of my favorite covers.

Another instance where strong typography and a gripping image really pop on the newsstand. Which at the time was an important consideration. But even now, as a thumbnail, it is a powerful cover.

This was a tough one. But illustrator Terry Allen gave us this beautiful solution.

A heartbreaking photo and a simple line of text. That's all you need.

Again, strong typography is always the answer for me.