The 45 RPM Revolution: The 1960s EP
The 1960s were a decade of social upheaval, a musical revolution, and a whole lot of vinyl. While albums were gaining momentum, the EP (Extended Play) record remained a vital force, especially in the realm of popular music. These 45 RPM discs, typically featuring 4-6 tracks, offered a unique window into the creative landscape of the era. Indeed, the 1960s EP played its part.
What is an EP?
An EP, or “extended play” record, was a means of delivering extra songs to the buying public. The old 7-inch single records usually had an A-side featuring the main song. You could turn this over and play the other side of the disc.
The B-side was usually insignificant and nearly always forgotten about. However, there are cases where the B-side became the hit instead of the intended song! For example, Rod Stewart’s “Maggie May“, which was the B-side to “Reason To Believe” in 1971! We will not give the usual Beatles example because all Beatles songs are perfect, as we know!
Of course, there are many cases where you had an official double A side. For example, The Beatles “We Can Work It Out” / “Day Tripper.”
The 1960s EP could manage four songs per record. It wasn’t quite the half-way point between singles and albums, but EPs served a purpose. For example, in the case of The Beatles, you can view their EPs from the 1960s as a means of getting their music out between their 12 classic studio albums.
Beyond the Singles:
The 1960s EP wasn’t just a small version of an album. They served a distinct purpose:
- Introducing New Artists: Labels often use EPs to showcase emerging talents, giving them a platform to build a fanbase before releasing a full album.
- Exploring Different Sounds: Artists experimented with B-sides, showcasing alternative takes, live recordings, or even entirely different genres, providing a glimpse into their versatility and creativity.
- Expanding on Popular Themes: Some EPs delved deeper into a specific theme or musical style, offering a more focused experience compared to the sprawling nature of a full album.
- Building Hype for Upcoming Albums: EPs served as teasers, offering snippets of upcoming material to build anticipation for an upcoming LP.
The 1960s also saw the emergence of the concept EP, where the songs told a story or explored a single idea. This format allowed artists to craft a cohesive narrative within the limitations of a shorter release.
The 1960s EP: A Beatles example
The image shows Side A of The Beatles (No. 1) (EP). You can clearly see the dividing line between the two songs. The first song is “I Saw Her Standing There,” and the second song is “Misery.” Of course, the other side had Anna (Go to Him) and Chains.
On LP records (long play), you should see a similar thing but with a lot more dividing lines. Those dividing lines represent the silence between songs. LPs typically play at 33 1/3 RPM, while in the 1960s EP example below, it spins at 45 RPM.
We have a list of all the Beatles EPs (check out the link above), and we review each one separately.
The Legacy of The 1960s EP:
While the dominance of the LP eventually overshadowed the EP, the legacy of these 45 RPM EP releases remains strong.
- A Collector’s Paradise: EPs became sought-after collectibles, offering rare tracks and alternative versions not found on full-length albums.
- A Testament to Creativity: They reflected the experimentation and innovation of the era, showcasing the diverse sounds and artistic visions of the time.
- A Window into Music History: EPs offer a unique perspective on the evolution of music, providing a glimpse into the creative process and artistic development of some of the most influential acts in history.
The 1960s EP: Conclusion
The next time you unearth a dusty 45 RPM 1960s EP, don’t dismiss it as a mere record. It might be an overlooked treasure, a forgotten gem, offering a unique glimpse into the rich musical landscape of that era.
