The Exclusive Record Labels that Signed The Beatles: Parlophone and Beyond
The Beatles are one of the most iconic bands in the history of music, but did you know that they were primarily signed to only two record labels during their career? This article delves into the details of the exclusive record labels that signed The Beatles.
Primarily Signed to Two Record Labels: Parlophone and Apple Records
Throughout their career, The Beatles were mainly associated with two record labels, Parlophone and Apple Records. Here is a closer look at each label:
Parlophone Records: In 1962, The Beatles signed with Parlophone, which is part of EMI Records. This label released most of their albums and singles during their active years. Apple Records: In 1968, The Beatles founded their own record label, Apple Records. Under this imprint, they released their later albums and projects.Although The Beatles were associated with other labels for specific releases or compilations, such as Capitol Records in the U.S., Parlophone and Apple Records are the two main labels they were signed to during their career.
EMI and Parlophone: The Exclusive Roots of The Beatles
EMI, the parent company of Parlophone Records, was the exclusive label that The Beatles were associated with. Parlophone Records was EMI’s specialty and comedy label, and it served as the imprint for The Beatles' records.
However, The Beatles' association with Parlophone was not the only significant label relationship. Here are some additional details:
Capitol Records (U.S.): From 1964 onward, Capitol Records manufactured, marketed, and distributed The Beatles' music in North America. Before 1964, Capitol initially refused to work with The Beatles, so they were represented in North America by VeeJay Records and Tollie Records. United Artists: The Beatles also signed a three-film deal with United Artists, which gave UA the privilege of releasing soundtrack albums for these movies in North America. However, only the soundtrack to A Hard Day's Night was released in North America on the UA imprint. Apple Records (Official Imprint): Technically, The Beatles signed themselves to Apple Records, which became their official imprint starting in 1968. Polydor Records (One-Off Recording): In 1961, The Beatles' supporting efforts with Tony Sheridan were represented on Polydor Records for a one-off recording session. It's possible that they may have signed with Polydor for this session as well.Summary of Record Label Associations
In England, The Beatles were signed to EMI/Parlophone and then Apple Records. Their distribution in the U.S. was handled by Vee Jay and Capitol Records.
This summary highlights the exclusive and non-exclusive record labels that were associated with The Beatles throughout their remarkable career. While Parlophone and Apple Records are clearly mentioned, understanding these additional labels provides a more comprehensive view of The Beatles' relationships with record labels.