Elvis Presley was in high demand and RCA wanted to capitalize in on this sensation. RCA released EPA-747 as Elvis’ first Extended Play record. The preview paper sleeve was used in the earliest releases of EPA-747 until the standard cardboard EP covers became available. These early release sleeves were accompanied by the earliest variation records. These early pressings have credited the song Just Because with P.D. (Public Domain), however, the song is not. Subsequent releases contained proper credits.
The record itself is not too difficult to obtain, the real value is in this sleeve. Although it is a rare sleeve, it is available from time to time.
Artist: Elvis Presley
Mfg: RCA Victor Records
Catalog: EPA-747
Release: 3/1956
Side 1
Blue Suede Shoes ***
Tutti Frutti ****
Side 2
I Got A Woman **
Just Because *
F2WB 8118 * Recorded: Sun Studios, Memphis, September 11, 1954
G2WB 0208-08 ** Recorded: RCA Studios, Nashville, January 10, 1956
G2WB 1230-10 *** Recorded: RCA Studios, New York City, January 30, 1956
G2WB 1255-10 **** Recorded: RCA Studios, New York City, January 31, 1956
Book Value: $2,000
This record was on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart on March 28, 1956, in the number 24 position and remained on the chart for twelve weeks.
DISC 1: Black label, dog on top, without horizontal silver line. The disc originally shipped in the temporary paper sleeve (cover 1) was on a label without a horizontal line.
Matrix: G2 WH1854-5S & G2 WH1855-5S / G2 WH1854-7S & G2 WH1855-7S
COVER 1: Temporary paper envelope/sleeve. Used until standard EP covers were available. Paper stock is white, with dark blue print.
INSERT 1: Typed note of explanation to retailers regarding the use of temporary sleeves.
Sources
Paul Lichter, The Boy Who Dared to Rock: The Definite Elvis (New York: Dolphin Books, 1978)
Jerry Osborne & Robert Alaniz, Presleyana V (Washington: Osborne Enterprises, 2002), p. 78
Elvis Discography 1956, http://www.sergent.com.au/elvis/1956.html
Elvis Presley – The New York Sessions 1956, http://www.elvispresleymusic.com.au/elvis_presley_new_york_sessions.html
Elvis Presley 1956: The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, http://www.elvispresleymusic.com.au/elvis_presley_1956.html