12/27/2025
Tell Me 2:52
In June 1964, The Rolling Stones released their first self titled LP in the UK on Decca records. It was issued in Mono on a red label with white lettering.
By mistake,an early shorter take, 2:52, with a different mix was released with LP matrix numbers XARL -6272-1-A in the run off on both sides 1 and 2. Tell Me was the third band on side 2.
Strangely, the second issue of the LP to correct the mistake was issued with matrix numbers XARL-6272-1A on side 1, and XARL-6272-2A on side 2, but also included the 2:52 Tell Me.
Subsequent releases with matrix numbers XARL-6272-3A(4A) and higher in the side 2 runoff contained the common correct version of Tell Me at 4 minutes and change.
To determine if you have the early mispressed version without playing the record, there are other clues besides looking at the runoff matrix. You can’t tell by the front or back cover; all versions are the same.
First, the top of the red Decca label will say Made In England The Decca Record Company, as opposed to just Made In England. However, third pressings will have the Decca wording as well.
Visually measuring the width of band 3 on side 2 will also determine the length of the song. The width of Tell Me 2:52 is about half an inch, while the 4 minute correct version measures about three quarters of an inch.
It’s not known exactly how many mispresses got out, probably a few hundred, but could be less.
The value ranges from 1-2 thousand dollars depending on condition.
I’ll play the 2:52 version audio in the comments.
Let me know if you have one, or good luck finding your rare copy!
