Cocker is the tenth studio album by Joe Cocker, released in April 1986, his second on Capitol label. It features hit singles "You Can Leave Your Hat On" and "Don't You Love Me Anymore", the first made popular after its use in the famous striptease scene in the film 9½ Weeks. Released as a single, Cocker's version of the song peaked at No. 35 on Billboard Hot Mainstream Rock Tracks. The album also features rendition of Marvin Gaye's "Inner City Blues", a Motown legend's classic lament to urban decay.
Where Civilized Man, Cocker's previous album, had two producers, Cocker had five. Also, the recording sessions took place in several studios in London, Memphis, Los Angeles and New York. The reason for this was Capitol trying out on Joe Cocker a formula that had brought success for Tina Turner. The album also featured, for the first time since 1976's Stingray, Cocker's touring band, who played on five tracks.
The release of Cocker was preceded by a single "Shelter Me", a powerful opener from the album, featuring rousing performances from guitarist Cliff Goodwin and saxophonist Mel Collins.
The album is dedicated to Joe Cocker's mother, Marjorie (Madge) Cocker, who died during the time period of the recording sessions.
Producers – Terry Manning (Tracks 1, 2, 8, 9 & 10, and "Tell Me There's a Way"); Albert Hammond and Diane Warren (Track 3); Ron Nevison (Tracks 4 & 7); Bernard Edwards (Track 5); Richie Zito (Track 6).
Engineers – Terry Manning (Tracks 1, 2, 8, 9 & 10); Guy Roche (Track 3); Ron Nevison (Tracks 4 & 7); Josh Abbey and Jason Corsaro (Track 5); Brian Reeves (Track 6).
Assistant Engineers – Stuart Barry, Kim Jenkins, Paul Mortimer and Patrick Stanley (Tracks 1, 2, 8, 9 & 10); Mike Clink and Matt Howe (Tracks 4 & 7); Jon Goldberger (Track 5).
Mixing – Terry Manning (Tracks 1, 2, 8, 9 & 10); Bob Ezrin and Paul Lani (Track 3);
Tracks 1, 2 & 8–10 recorded at Ardent Studios (Memphis, TN), Abbey Road Studios and The Workhouse (London, UK); Track 3 recorded at Criterion Studios (Hollywood, CA); Tracks 4 & 7 recorded at AIR Studios (London, UK) and Record Plant (Los Angeles, CA); Track 5 recorded at The Power Station (New York, NY); Track 6 recorded at Oasis Recording Studios (Universal City, CA) and Ocean Way Recording (Hollywood, CA).
