Janis Joplin - I Got 'em old Kozmic Blues again Mama 12" Vinyl LP Album

- CBS Records with Red Record Labe

The vinyl LP album "I Got Dem Ol' Kozmic Blues Again Mama!" by Janis Joplin is an iconic piece of music history, capturing the raw energy and soulful voice of one of rock and blues' most unforgettable performers. Released in September 1969, this album marked a significant departure for Joplin from her previous work with Big Brother and the Holding Company, showcasing her evolving musical style and expanding her artistic horizons.

Commercial Success:

"I Got Dem Ol' Kozmic Blues Again Mama!" enjoyed considerable commercial success upon its release, reaching number five on the Billboard 200 chart in the United States. The album's lead single, "Try (Just a Little Bit Harder)," became a top 20 hit, further solidifying Joplin's status as a powerhouse vocalist and a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. With its blend of blues, soul, and rock influences, the album resonated with audiences around the world and continues to be celebrated by music lovers of all generations.

Musical Contribution:

This album is a testament to Janis Joplin's remarkable talent and uncompromising spirit. From the gritty intensity of tracks like "Kozmic Blues" to the soul-stirring emotion of "Little Girl Blue," Joplin delivers each song with unparalleled conviction and authenticity. Her distinctive voice, characterized by its raspy texture and raw emotional power, cuts straight to the heart of the listener, leaving an indelible impression that lingers long after the music has ended.

What Sets It Apart:

What sets "I Got Dem Ol' Kozmic Blues Again Mama!" apart from other albums of its time is its fearless experimentation and willingness to push musical boundaries. Joplin fearlessly embraces a variety of musical styles and influences, from the bluesy swagger of "One Good Man" to the psychedelic funk of "Move Over." The album's bold eclecticism reflects Joplin's own eclectic tastes and restless creative spirit, showcasing her ability to transcend genre conventions and forge a sound that is uniquely her own.

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.