Chris Rush Atlantic Records Promotional Poster Mickey Pickles

Description

Chris Rush (1946–2016) was one of America’s most successful stand-up comedians during the late 1970s and early 1980s, blending rapid-fire storytelling with rock-and-roll energy. A regular on television, concert stages, and comedy clubs, Rush cultivated a devoted following before releasing comedy albums for Atlantic Records. His performances were known for their sharp observational humor, animated delivery, and larger-than-life stage presence, making him one of the era’s most recognizable comedians.

This original Atlantic Records promotional poster celebrates Rush in the form of a full-page comic illustrated by underground cartoonist Mickey Pickles. Rather than a conventional publicity piece, it unfolds into an inventive comic strip chronicling one of Rush’s routines, culminating with the punchline, “First… WACKO… and I’m on Atlantic Records.” Promotional pieces like this were produced in far smaller numbers than commercial posters and were intended for record stores, radio stations, and industry promotion. Surviving examples remain surprisingly elusive today, particularly in such attractive condition.

A terrific piece of comedy and music ephemera that bridges stand-up, underground comics, and the golden age of record-store promotion. And if you’ve already got Chris Rush’s Atlantic LP sitting on your shelf, here’s the original promotional poster that belongs beside it.