The Beatles' U.K. singles were
released as individual records with their own A- and
B-side pairings, rather than simply as selections from
the group's albums. The series began on 5th October 1962
with “Love Me Do” / “P.S. I Love You” (45-R 4949),
released on the Parlophone label. Non-album tracks such
as “Rain” and “The Inner Light” appeared on B-sides,
while singles such as “We Can Work It Out” / “Day
Tripper” and “Strawberry Fields Forever” / “Penny Lane”
were released as double A-sides, with both songs given
equal status.
Beyond the music itself, British singles provide a
valuable record of changes in label design and pressing
characteristics. The earliest releases featured the red
Parlophone label, which was later replaced by the black
Parlophone design. In August 1968, “Hey Jude” /
“Revolution” (R 5722) became the first Beatles single
released on the Apple label in the U.K. Variations in
label typography, publisher credits, push-out and solid
centers, matrix numbers, and company sleeves provide
important clues for distinguishing original pressings
from later issues.
This index covers original U.K. singles, the 1976
reissue campaign, promotional releases, anniversary
editions, picture discs, 12-inch singles, export
editions, and other releases. Singles issued on non-EMI
labels are also listed in separate categories. |
