Japanese 7" discography [142 official releases + 146 variations]
Japanese pressings are much sought-after for the exclusiveness and designs of their picture sleeves - and sometimes couplings. The sound of Japanese pressings is also renowned to be the best although this is not always true. The nippon production was ponctual - short runs - but intensive, and much of it was exported in the past.
From 1964 to 1990, many colourful and unique designs were made, whether for originals or reissues, some in deluxe packagings.
All 7"s come with either 'insert' or regular PS, with lyrics in Japanese and English (English lyrics seem to have been locally transcribed!).
The London years [1964-1971]
- EPs - 17M series - originals 1965
- EPs - LS series - originals 1966-1970
- EPs - OH series - deluxe gatefold compilations 1972-1973
- EPs - SAC series - compilations 1976
- HIT series - earliest original singles - 1964-1965 and their reissues
- TOP series - original singles - 1966-1978
- FMS series - from the movie soundtrack 'Coming Home' - 1978
- CM series - 1979-1980 reissues
- 'Single Stones' collection - 1982 box set of 15 singles
- S07P series - reissues - 1983
- Special issues - very late issues and freebies w/ LPs
The RSR / Pioneer years [1971-1977]
The RSR / EMI years [1978-1984]
The CBS / SONY years [1986-1992]
The Universal / Polydor years [2023+]
Note that retail prices are printed on covers (front or rear) in Japan [eg: ¥330 in 1964, ¥370 in 1965, ¥400 in 1968, ¥500 in 1972, or ¥600 in 1976 for singles].
Because of their scarcity, their repute of originality, beautifulness and quality, Japanese pressings have been in constant demand over the years among collectors and their prices greatly rose up.
Note: the book The Rolling Stones Japanese singles & EPs discography is available here.
