The Beatles’ Hits EP
The Beatles release their second British EP, less than two months after their first, “Twist And Shout.” Having the title of a song that is the same as the EP can be confusing. However, there is no confusion here because this EP is called The Beatles’ Hits EP.
In Detail
- Released: September 6, 1963
- Recorded: September 11, 1962–March 13, 1963, EMI Studios, London
- Format: 7-inch vinyl EP (45 RPM) (Mono only)
- Genre: Merseybeat, pop and rock
- Length: 8:22
- Label: Parlophone (GEP 8880)
- Producer: George Martin
Performers
- John Lennon: lead vocal, double-tracked vocal, rhythm guitar and harmonica,
- Paul McCartney: lead vocal, harmony vocal, double-tracked lead vocals and bass guitar
- George Harrison: lead guitar, acoustic guitar, as well as backing vocals
- Ringo Starr: drums
- Pete Best: drums (Love Me Do)
Tracks on The Beatles’ Hits EP
- A1: From Me to You
- A2: Thank You Girl
- B1: Please Please Me
- B2: Love Me Do
The Beatles’ Hits EP: Chart Success
All the songs on this EP were on hit singles, hence the title. However, while the single version of Love Me Do had Ringo Starr on drums, the version on this EP had Pete Best.
The hit single “From Me To You” had “Thank You Girl” as the B-Side. Meanwhile, “Please Please Me” and “Love Me Do” were A-sides of singles.
The Beatles’ Hits EP entered the UK charts on September 21, 1963. Furthermore, it stayed in the charts for 43 weeks, reaching the top for 3 weeks.
It was also released in Australia and New Zealand. Although, in Australia, it only peaked at 52. Perhaps they had too much of their music. Of course, the Australians were caught up in Beatlemania like the rest of us.
In Conclusion
Finally, you can look at this EP as an early attempt at a “greatest hits” release. Moreover, with Pete Best appearing on drums, it was sort of unique. So, do you still have this record? Let us know in the comments below or in the massive Beatles Forum (link at the top of every article).
