Friday, October 5, 1962: 'Love Me Do'

The Beatles' first single is released in England, with "P.S. I Love You" as the B-side. Written by John Lennon and Paul McCartney, it was recorded at three different sessions with three different drummers: Pete Best on June 6, Ringo Starr on September 4 (pictured), and Andy White on September 11. The version with Ringo on drums was used for the initial release on EMI's Parlophone label (which would reach No. 17 on the British music charts); later, the version with White on drums and Ringo on tambourine was used for the 45 and the band's first album.

* June 6 recording session (from www.beatlesbible.com): @ 
* September 4 session (beatlesbible.com): @ 
* September 11 session (beatlesbible.com): @ 
* Song entry from beatlesbible.com: @ 
* Entry from www.thebeatlesonline.com: @ 
* Entry from www.thebeatlesrarity.com: @ 
* Entry from thebeatles-collection.com: @ 
* Song analysis by Alan W. Pollack (from Soundscapes: Journal on Media Culture): @ 

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