I think this LP cover is just some lame attempt by the folks at UA,to make him "fit in" with the current youth culture of the late 1960's.
It's so obvious! :D
It's not a bad coverfor it's time but it's also kind of a risky move. His fans could just as easily thought it was silly. As well as younger folk finding it patronizing. At least he didn't try looking like a hippie! LOL :D