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.

The album also features rendition of Marvin Gaye's "Inner City Blues", a Motown legend's classic lament to urban decay.

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.