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To mark the 50th anniversary of the release of The Beatles' Sgt Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band album, which was released on 1 June 1967, we examine the cultural impact of the album regarded by many social historians as the most important and influential LP ever released.

The album was the spark that ignited the most creative period in modern music when artistes fueled by psychedelic drugs produced music that had a seismic impact on art, fashion, dance, theatre, literature, film, architecture and design. It inspired changes in prevailing political, social and religious attitudes - borne from the ideology of peace, love and true respect for one another.

Music has always been a potent force for social change; it serves as both catalyst and sound track for social justice movements throughout time and in 1967, Sgt Pepper’s provided one of the most powerful musical cornerstones to the now legendary `Summer of Love’. It became an inspiration for a new generation of free thinking activists to oppose the social and political norms at the time, triggering dramatic cultural changes. And 50 years after its release, the album is still providing inspiration for a new generation of artists.

(Photo: The Beatles (clockwise from top left: Ringo Starr, George Harrison (1943 - 2001), John Lennon (1940 - 1980) and Paul McCartney) pose for a photocall to promote Sergeant Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band. Credit: John Pratt/Keystone/Getty Images)