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Lot #8017
Beatles Rare Parlophone ‘A-Label’ 45 RPM Single Record for ‘Paperback Writer’ (Demo Record)

Estimate: $2000+

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Description

Rare Parlophone ‘A-label’ 45 RPM demonstration record for the Beatles single ‘Paperback Writer / Rain,’ which was released with the catalogue number “R 5452” on June 10, 1966. Both sides feature bold text to the label: “Demonstration Record, Not for Sale.” Record label matrix numbers on side A (7XCE 18380 - 2) and B (7XCE 18381 - 2), with EMI stamper codes “1, G" and “2, P,” and a “KT” tax code. Includes the original green Parlophone/EMI sleeve. The consignor notes that the record has been extremely conservatively graded under a very bright light and the condition is near mint. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Tracks.

The April 1966 sessions that produced ‘Paperback Writer’ and ‘Rain,’ recorded at EMI Studios during work on Revolver, marked a departure from the studio’s established engineering practices. Newly assigned engineer Geoff Emerick captured Paul McCartney’s Rickenbacker bass by placing a loudspeaker directly in front of the bass amplifier and using it in reverse as a microphone, routing the resulting signal through compressors and filters. Emerick later recalled that ‘Paperback Writer’ was the first Beatles recording on which the bass could be heard ‘in all its excitement.’ According to accounts of the session, the search for a more powerful bass sound was partly prompted by John Lennon questioning why a Wilson Pickett record had greater low-end presence than the Beatles’ records. ‘Paperback Writer’ was recorded on April 13th and 14th, while work on ‘Rain’ began on April 14th and continued through April 16th.

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