Acclaimed rock album cover artist and designer Ioannis Vasilopoulos, who was simply known as Ioannis, has died. His family released a statement which said: "We announce with heavy hearts the passing of Ioannis, our beloved artist, husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle, and friend. He has left us for the great beyond. We find comfort in knowing he is reunited with his father, mother, family, and friends. The outpouring of love for Ioannis and his work is a great comfort. Ioannis wanted to do so many new things, and as a family, we have been tasked with continuing his work. His energy will live on through his incredible art. His bright smile and child-like excitement live on in his works. Ioannis will undoubtedly be remembered as one of rock's all-time great artists."

During his career Ioannis designed over 350 record covers and merchandise for iconic groups such as Deep Purple, Allman Brothers, Bon Jovi, Uriah Heap, Styx, Blue Oyster Cult, Dream Theater, King Crimson, Starship, Yngwie Malmsteen, Lynard Skynard, Quiet Riot, Extreme Michael Bolton and many more.

He created the artwork for several Uriah Heep albums such as 2008's Wake the Sleeper and 2011's Into the Wild

He also created the visual for band member Trevor Bolder’s solo album Sail the Rivers in 2020.

Ionnis had may shows of his work in the US and continued selling his artwork worldwide until his death. The cause of death has not been revealed.

He is survived by his wife Lisa, daughter Maria, son-in-law Conor, grandchildren Henry and Jack, brother George, sister-in-law Gaylene, niece Sophia, and sister Elizabeth.

Born in Athens, Greece he arrived in the US in 1967. He grew up influenced by comic books, animation, fantasy art, and music.

It was his love of music inspired his admiration of album cover art and he created his first record cover while he was in college for the group Art in America, an MTV video breakout in 1983.

The cover would later be featured in the book 1000 Record Covers written by Michael Ochs.

His work was also featured in the books Fade To Black with Martin Popoff and Get the Led Out written by Denny Somach.