JANIS JOPLIN - I GOT 'EM OLD KOZMIC BLUES AGAIN MAMA 12" Vinyl LP Album

- CBS Records with Orange Record Label with "Walking Eye"

Janis Joplin's "I Got Dem Ol' Kozmic Blues Again Mama!" stands as a testament to the raw power and soulful depth of one of the most iconic voices in rock history. Released on September 11, 1969, this album marked a pivotal moment in Joplin's career, being her first solo studio endeavor following her departure from Big Brother and the Holding Company.

Drenched in bluesy fervor and fueled by Joplin's unmistakable vocal prowess, "I Got Dem Ol' Kozmic Blues Again Mama!" is a tour de force of emotion and musicality. From the gritty, heart-wrenching rendition of "Try (Just a Little Bit Harder)" to the electrifying energy of "Piece of My Heart," each track on the album showcases Joplin's ability to captivate listeners with her soulful delivery and impassioned performances.

Commercial success quickly followed the album's release, with "I Got Dem Ol' Kozmic Blues Again Mama!" achieving gold record status within a mere two months. This rapid ascent to acclaim is a testament not only to Joplin's undeniable talent but also to the resonance of her music with audiences around the world.

What sets this album apart is not only its commercial success but also its fearless exploration of themes of love, loss, and longing. Joplin bares her soul with every note, infusing each song with a palpable sense of vulnerability and authenticity that continues to resonate with listeners decades later.

Furthermore, the album's departure from Joplin's previous work with Big Brother and the Holding Company highlights her versatility as an artist. Embracing a more polished and diverse sound, "I Got Dem Ol' Kozmic Blues Again Mama!" showcases Joplin's willingness to push musical boundaries and explore new creative horizons.

Janis Joplin’s I Got Dem Ol’ Kozmic Blues Again Mama! has been issued in multiple pressings over the years, but one of the most noticeable differences between versions lies in the color of the CBS record label. Vinyl collectors and audiophiles often debate the significance of these variations, with the orange label representing the original 1969 pressing and the red label indicating a later reissue. But what exactly changed between these two editions? Let’s break it down.

1. Color Scheme & Era

• Orange Label: The original 1969 European pressing featured the burnt-orange CBS label, a signature design of CBS Records during the late 1960s and early 1970s.
• Red Label: In the mid-to-late 1970s, CBS transitioned to a deeper red label, which became the standard for many of their reissues.

2. Typography & Layout

• Orange Label: Uses a more spaced-out font, with thinner text for track listings and album details. It often includes the CBS “Walking Eye” logo surrounding the spindle hole.
• Red Label: The typography is bolder and more compact, with the CBS logo centered at the top without a surrounding box.

3. Catalog Number & Matrix Codes

• Orange Label: Displays the original catalog number (CBS 63546) in a smaller font, usually positioned near the spindle hole.
• Red Label: Features an updated catalog number (CBS 32063), sometimes with additional reissue markings or matrix codes.

4. Copyright & Legal Markings

• Orange Label: Mentions BIEM, the rights management society that handled music licensing in Europe at the time.
• Red Label: Displays BIEM/STEMRA, reflecting a later change in copyright handling for Dutch and broader European pressings.

5. Print Finish & Label Texture

• Orange Label: Has a matte finish with softer ink contrast. Some early pressings also have deeper grooves around the label edges.
• Red Label: Features a glossier print, reflecting updated CBS manufacturing techniques from the late 1970s onward.

Conclusion: Which One Should You Get?

For collectors, the orange label pressing is the most sought-after, as it represents the first European release of I Got Dem Ol’ Kozmic Blues Again Mama!. Its historical value and authenticity make it a prized addition to any vinyl collection. However, the red label reissue offers a more affordable way to enjoy the album on vinyl while still retaining its vintage charm.

Whether you’re a dedicated collector chasing the original 1969 pressing or just looking for a great-sounding copy of Janis Joplin’s soulful, blues-drenched classic, understanding these label differences will help you make an informed decision.