Print Details
About this photograph
Amy Winehouse was scheduled to perform at Nelson Mandela’s 90th birthday celebration in Hyde Park, London in 2008.
“I was there, photographing everything. Amy Winehouse was scheduled to appear and I was hoping she was going to be there. I had never taken a photo of her before and she was one of the few modern performers I really wanted to capture. She had this great look about her, a big beehive, the likes of which I haven’t seen since the 1950s, with a bunch of sailor-type tattoos—she looked like she had raw attitude and a lot of sass. How she looked aside, I thought she had a real, genuine talent.
“Apparently, she came out of the London clinic to do the concert then went back. She was in the middle of rehab. I only had a few minutes with her at best—so I just asked her to stand still for a second and I got a few shots in before she had to dash off somewhere.
“She was really gifted. Another one, like Brian Jones, Keith Moon, Janis Joplin—the list is too long—it’s a real shame what drugs and alcohol can do. Who knows what she could have gone on to do, to record. I loved her voice—still do. I don’t really go for the modern singers; they are too produced and manufactured. Amy was special.” – Terry O’Neill
Print sizes and editions
16” x 20” - Open edition
20” x 24” - Open edition
30” x 40” - Open edition
48” x 72” - Open edition
Print type
Silver gelatin print
Paper type
HARMAN GDS Fibre-based Baryta paper
Signature
Estate stamped by Terry O’Neill / Iconic Images Archive
About the photographer
Terry O'Neill was a renowned British photographer celebrated for capturing iconic images of the 1960s fashion, style, and celebrities. His work spanned over six decades, featuring presidents, prime ministers, rock stars, Oscar winners, and the British Royal Family. O'Neill's photography graced the covers of prominent magazines such as Time, Newsweek, and Vanity Fair. He is especially noted for his candid shots of legends like David Bowie, Elton John, The Beatles, and The Rolling Stones.
© Terry O’Neill / Iconic Images Archive. All rights reserved. Not to be reproduced without permission.