From the
1950s the 12" LP record and the 45 rpm record became the major formats for
the distribution of rock and pop music. Album covers are the first impression
of the content of the music or the persona of the musicians and singers
themselves. In a world where online sales did not exist, the cover was a key
selling tool.
Once Peter
Blake and Jann Haworth had designed the Sgt Pepper’s album for The Beatles, it
was clear that the cover could be a work of art in its own right. They became
as collectable and desirable as a painting on a wall and at a fraction of the
price.
Below are albums, prints and photographs from iconic album and single covers. If you're not looking to buy, but want to learn more about pop and punk art, click here to read the biographies of the artists and influencers of these great movements.
