UK Album Release: 1962–1966 (Red Album)

Thursday 19 April 1973 | Release, The Beatles

On 19 April 1973, The Beatles released the compilation album 1962–1966 in the United Kingdom, a collection that became widely known as the “Red Album” due to its distinctive cover design.

Issued alongside its companion volume 1967–1970 (the “Blue Album”), the release provided a curated retrospective of the group’s career, spanning their early years through to the close of 1966. Both albums had already been released in the United States on 2 April 1973.

The Red Album reached number three on the UK Albums Chart, reaffirming the enduring commercial appeal of The Beatles’ catalogue even after the group’s official split.

The compilation featured key recordings from the band’s formative and mid-period years, offering listeners a concise overview of their evolution from Merseybeat beginnings to studio innovators.

💿 Release Details

• Title: 1962–1966 (Red Album)
• Release Date (UK): 19 April 1973
• Companion Album: 1967–1970 (Blue Album)
• US Release Date: 2 April 1973
• UK Chart Peak: No. 3

📀 Legacy & Reissues

Remastered editions of both the Red and Blue albums were released on 18 October 2010 (19 October in North America) as expanded two-CD sets. These editions included updated booklets featuring new essays by Bill Flanagan and previously unpublished photographs of The Beatles.

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FAQ

What is the Red Album?

It is a Beatles compilation album covering the years 1962 to 1966.

When was it released in the UK?

It was released on 19 April 1973.

What is its companion release?

The companion album is 1967–1970, commonly known as the Blue Album.

Was it reissued later?

Yes, remastered editions were released in 2010 with expanded content.