The Myth of Beatles Leaving EMI for Capitol: A Comprehensive Look
Many music enthusiasts and historians often ask whether the Beatles ever left their original record label, EMI, to sign with Capitol Records. This article aims to clear up the myth and provide a detailed exploration of the relationship between the two iconic music labels.
The Relationship Dynamics
The Beatles were originally signed to EMI's Parlophone label in the UK. Parlophone was a subsidiary of EMI, a British multinational entertainment and media conglomerate. Despite being part of the EMI group, Capitol Records, which was owned by EMI, became the de facto US label for The Beatles by virtue of their parent company's distribution deals. This relationship was not exclusive, meaning the Beatles did not sign any comprehensive worldwide exclusive deal with Capitol Records.
Capitol Records and the Early Days
Initially, when Capitol Records had the opportunity to release The Beatles' records in the U.S., they declined. However, after Decca Records (a subsidiary of EMI) recommended that Capitol release the albums, Capitol finally gave in and started distributing The Beatles records. Prior to this, a few early Beatles records were released by two small American companies, Swan and Vee-Jay, which did not succeed in the market.
Changes in Distribution and Relationship
Once Capitol recognized the potential of The Beatles, they began distributing the albums they already owned the rights to, without the Beatles needing to sign a new deal with them. This distribution agreement allowed Capitol to promote the band in North America effectively. However, the Beatles themselves were not entirely satisfied with Capitol's practices. They believed that their albums were 'butchered' into shorter versions for the sake of sales, a process known as 'butchering' or 'chopping.' Nevertheless, Capitol played a crucial role in making The Beatles popular in the U.S.
The Impact on Album Versions
The distribution and subsidiary agreements between EMI and Capitol led to slight differences in the album versions released in the UK and the US. Old record stores often sold the US versions for a higher price. This was a significant factor in the Beatles' record sales strategy, as they managed to market their albums in different ways across the two markets.
The Role of Apple Records and McCartney's Works
By 1968, the Beatles formed their own record label, Apple Records, which was initially distributed by EMI. Capitol continued to distribute the Beatles' records, even in the US, with album covers still carrying the Capitol logo. Paul McCartney released his solo albums under Capitol Records starting in 1975, though he switched to rival Columbia Records for about ten years in 1978 before returning to Capitol.
Legal Battles and Resolutions
In 1979, ten years after the Beatles secretly split, legal battles over royalties began. The members of The Beatles sued Capitol Records for more royalties, which were not fully resolved until 1989. New waves of legal actions were filed and resolved in 1988-1989, ensuring that the Beatles and their surviving members would receive their rightful earnings.
This article aims to clarify the often misunderstood relationship between The Beatles, EMI, and Capitol Records, emphasizing the intricate distribution and legal agreements that governed their relationship during a transformative period in music history.