Electric Light Orchestra - The USA Singles
Comments and Observations
From May 1972 to April 1986, the Electric Light Orchestra released 31 standard singles on the US market. 26 of these charted on the Billboard Top 100 charts, yielding an amassed total of 341 weeks on the charts. Currently, ELO holds the record for having the most Billboard Top 40 hits of any band in US history, without ever hitting the #1 spot. Quite an accomplishment considering that all the songs, other than Roll Over Beethoven were written by bandleader Jeff Lynne. They have 20 Top 40 hits.All standard ELO singles were only ever released in 7" format. By the time that CD singles and other formats had come on the market, ELO had disbanded. Several singles had promo only 12" vinyl releases as well and the 2001 singles (Alright and Moment In Paradise) were released as promo only CD singles, not having commercial releases at all.
A-sides and B-sides: All A-side songs were taken from the current-at-the-time LPs, including two issues of Showdown. The first 1973 issue of Showdown was taken from the On The Third Day LP and the second 1976 issue was taken from the Olé ELO LP. Many of the songs were uniquely edited, especially those issued before 1979. Most common of the edits were removed intros or early fades, but some had more interesting cuts including whole verses and choruses. This was done presumably to keep the songs short and interesting for radio broadcasts. The B-side songs were mostly taken from the album tracks of the current-at-the-time album or earlier. Two singles had tracks taken from the European only The Night The Light Went On In Long Beach LP. And six singles had unique B-sides. As with the A-sides, often the B-sides were uniquely edited. This was presumably done in case the records were flipped by radio stations (which happened in the case of Daybreaker) and to shorten the longer tracks for the 7" single format. It is known that ELO recorded several non-LP songs especially for the B-sides from the On The Third Day to Face The Music albums, with titles such as Give Me Fever and Like A Rat Up A Drain, but these songs were not used and have never been released. The 2001 singles, released as CD singles, technically have no B-side.
Labels: All singles from May 1972 to April 1975 (10538 Overture to Boy Blue) were issued on the United Artists label. Beginning with Evil Woman in October 1975, the Jet Records label was created and the first single under that label was released. From October 1975 to March 1978 (Evil Woman to Sweet Talkin' Woman), all singles were issued under the Jet Records label while still being distributed by United Artists. During this period, the infamous yellow and blue Jet Records label was first used on the Turn To Stone single. Interestingly, during the middle of the promotion for the Out Of The Blue album, Jet Records changed distributors from United Artists to CBS, which meant that the next single, Mr. Blue Sky issued in June of 1978, was the beginning of ELO's records being issued on the Jet Records label and distributed by CBS. (It also meant that all copies of the United Artists versions of Out Of The Blue had to be recalled and the record was redistributed by CBS.) All remaining singles were issued with this arrangement and featured the infamous Jet Records logo with the exception of the Xanadu songs (issued by MCA because of contract requirements) and the two singles taken from Balance Of Power (issued on the CBS Associated label because Jet Records was out of business). The two Zoom singles were issued long after Jet Records was out of business and were issued by Epic Records.
Zoom singles: Both Alright and Moment In Paradise from the 2001 Zoom album did not have official singles released for sale to the public. Only promo CD singles were made available. By this time, actual physical singles were becoming less important to single promotion and many record companies were not issuing them for songs they were promoting. This is probably the case with these songs, although they could probably be considered ELO's 32nd and 33rd singles. It's unclear if it they will actually go down in history as official ELO singles. In any case, they failed to crack the Billboard Top 100 at all.
Digital singles: Curiously, ELO has had very few digital/download singles in the US market. A digital single is a song (or collection of songs) that are marketed on download sites as a single, with unique artwork (sometimes), promotion, and sometimes bundled with bonus songs (an equivalent of B-sides). Certainly, with the growth of the digital single market in the early 2000s and the music industry embrace of the concept, download singles came a little after the last of the ELO new releases. Note: there were Surrender and Latitude 88 North download singles in the UK and possibly other markets, but these songs were never singles in the US despite the claims on some sites. The first digital single was When I Was A Boy, the lead single from Alone In The Universe in 2015.
Promos: All 31 original singles also had promotional singles released. These promotional singles (commonly known as "promos") are often referred to as white label promos because at least one side has a completely white background. These promos were designed for use by radio stations, thus many had slight variations in the edits or versions compared to the commercial single. All 7" promos have the same song on both sides of the single, but a few there are slight variations in the two versions. All promos up to Shine A Little Love with the exception of It's Over had a stereo version of the A-side on one side and a mono version of the A-side on the other. The mono side was used by AM stations because for most of the 1970s, AM radio could only broadcast in mono. Roll Over Beethoven had two promo singles, both with the same stock number. Of these two promos, the first contains the standard single version (both stereo and mono) and the other contains and even shorter version that is cut to only 3:45 (both mono and stereo). It's Over and Hold On Tight both had the regular stereo A-side on one side and a slightly edited intro of the same song (in stereo) on the other side. All promo singles from Don't Bring Me Down and later (including the MCA singles) have the same stereo song on both sides of the record with the exclusion of the aforementioned Hold On Tight promo.
12" singles: In addition to the standard 7" single promos, some songs also featured some interesting 12" promo singles. In 1977, Livin' Thing was released as a blue vinyl one-sided 12" promo that was packaged in a plain white sleeve with a blue stamp of "New ELO" only. 1978 saw a 12" promo of Mr. Blue Sky (with the full album version of the song). In 1980, a very rare 10" picture disc of Xanadu was released. Beginning in 1981 with Hold On Tight, most (although not all) ELO singles were also released as 12" promos.
Label variations: Of interest to collectors are the various 7" label variations. In the 1970s and 1980s, the pressing of singles was farmed out to various record pressing plants across the country that serviced the record stores in the local areas. Often the artwork was provided as well as any label information, but often it was up to the plant themselves to put it all together. As a result of this and repressings, a lot of label variations resulted, with small bits of information included or excluded and arrangement of information in different locations or fonts on the label. An example of this is shown here with three known variations from the 1977 Telephone Line single (United Artists UA-XW 1000). The exact extent of all these variations is extremely difficult to identify and verify, therefore it is not fully examined on this page.
The One Summer Dream variations: In regards to the singles being pressed in different pressing plants, a strange curiousity resulted in the Mr. Blue Sky single's B-side, One Summer Dream. Typically, when a plant was hired to press a single, they were provided a master or a tape of the recordings so they could make their own masters. In this way, the versions of the songs were always the same, no matter who pressed the singles. However, One Summer Dream is known to have as many as six different fade-outs, depending on which plant pressed the single. It is unclear why this is, but it is a guess that the song was deemed too long for a single. Therefore when the tapes were provided to the plants, either each tape was individually faded on One Summer Dream before being shipped out or the plants were provided the full song and instructed to add their own fade. It is interesting to consider how this phenomena may be somehow related to Jet Records change of distribution from United Artists to CBS.
The Xanadu picture sleeves: There has been a great deal of confusion over the picture sleeves for the USA single. The known facts are that in the collectors market are three USA singles found in picture sleeves: one with a black and white image of Olivia from the film; another with a yellow background and black writing; and another with a yellow background and red writing. The true origins of these sleeves is rather mysterious, but it is now believed that they are actually from Belgium bootleggers and not the US. Although the vinyl records themselves are the standard USA release on MCA records (MCA-41285), the picture sleeves have no identifiable markings that indicate their origin. Some claim that they are USA issues (including OnlyOlivia.com) while others claim they are legitimate Belgium covers. By this time, as Europe opened up, many nation's singles were being pressed in increasingly one country, then being sold in other countries (e.g. pressing plants in Holland and Germany were pressing vinyl for most of Europe at this time). Perhaps to build their own sales, some retailers bought "foreign" singles and made their own covers, especially for hit singles, as a way to increase their sales. Thus, some retailers in (at least) Belgium imported the USA single and made professional-appearing record sleeves, and caused years of confusion. Although these sleevesa are an interesting, anachronistic collector's item, they are in fact, bootleg covers with USA singles inserted in them.
Releases
Issue Date Singles Comments 10538 Overture 1972 May 10538 Overture Running Time: 3:56
10538 Overture The Battle Of Marston Moor (July, 2nd 1644) 
7" single -- United Artists 50914 (standard issue) 10538 Overture 10538 Overture (Mono) 
7" single -- United Artists 50914 (promo issue) This song (both mono and stereo) is edited from the No Answer album version and fades immediately following the last chorus.
The Battle Of Marston Moor (July, 2nd 1644) Running Time: 6:05This song is the same as the No Answer version.
These edits of 10538 Overture, both stereo and mono, have never been issued on CD. * Show/Hide release information for 10538 Overture and The Battle Of Marston Moor (July, 2nd 1644)... Roll Over Beethoven 1973 February Roll Over Beethoven Running Time: 4:33
Roll Over Beethoven Queen Of The Hours 
7" single -- United Artists UA-XW 173-W (standard issue) 
7" single -- United Artists UA-XW 173-W (first promo issue) Roll Over Beethoven Roll Over Beethoven (Mono) 
7" single -- United Artists UA-XW 173-W (second promo issue) 
7" single -- United Artists UA-XW 173-W (third promo issue) This song (both mono and stereo) is edited from the full 7:03 ELO 2 album version, where the mellotron intro and the second Beethoven's Fifth sequences are cut from the intro; one of the keyboard sequences, the guitar solo and the following keyboard/cello part are cut from the first instrumental bridge; the entire second chorus is cut; and the second instrumental bridge except the guitar solo is cut.
Queen Of The Hours Running Time: 3:26This song is the same as the No Answer version.
Roll Over Beethoven (Promo Edit) Running Time: 3:45This song (both mono and stereo) is the same as the 4:33 single version, but with even more cuts. It cuts the fourth verse and second chorus as well as the guitar solo from the second instrumental bridge.
These mono single edit and both mono and stereo promo edits of Roll Over Beethoven, have never been issued on CD.
The promo edit was created for radio to make the song even shorter than the single edit.
* Show/Hide release information for Roll Over Beethoven and Queen Of The Hours... Showdown 1973 October Showdown Running Time: 3:54
Showdown In Old England Town (Instrumental) 
7" single -- United Artists UA-XW 337-W (standard issue) Showdown Showdown (Mono) 
7" single -- United Artists UA-XW 337-W (promo issue) This song (both mono and stereo) is edited from the On The Third Day album version and fades about eighteen seconds earlier.
In Old England Town (Instrumental) Running Time: 2:44This is an original B-side, adapted from the original Electric Light Orchestra II version of In Old England Town (Boogie No. 2).
The mono version of Showdown has never been issued on CD. The B-side misprints the title as In An Old England Town. * Show/Hide release information for Showdown and In Old England Town (Instrumental)... Ma-Ma-Ma Belle 1974 February Ma-Ma-Ma Belle Running Time: 3:25
Ma-Ma-Ma Belle Daybreaker 
7" single -- United Artists UA-XW 405-W (standard issue) Ma-Ma-Ma Belle Ma-Ma-Ma Belle (Mono) 
7" single -- United Artists UA-XW 405-W (promo issue) This song (both mono and stereo) is edited from the On The Third Day album version and fades during the last half of the third chorus.
Daybreaker Running Time: 3:33This song is the same as the On The Third Day version, excluding the 19 second On The Third Day interlude that is attached to the end of the album version.
This edit of Ma-Ma-Ma Belle, both mono and stereo, has never been issued on CD. * Show/Hide release information for Ma-Ma-Ma Belle and Daybreaker... Can't Get It Out Of My Head 1974 November Can't Get It Out Of My Head Running Time: 3:11
Can't Get It Out Of My Head Illusions In G Major 
7" single -- United Artists UA-XW 573-W (standard issue) Can't Get It Out Of My Head Can't Get It Out Of My Head (Mono) 
7" single -- United Artists UA-XW 573-W (promo issue) This song (both mono and stereo) is edited from the Eldorado album version. It cuts the second verse, the second chorus and two parts of the moog synthesizer from the instrumental bridge.
Illusions In G Major Running Time: 3:38This song is the same as the Eldorado version.
The mono edit of Can't Get It Out Of My Head has never been issued on CD. * Show/Hide release information for Can't Get It Out Of My Head and Illusions In G Major... Boy Blue April 1975 Boy Blue Running Time: 2:54
Boy Blue Eldorado 
7" single -- United Artists UA-XW 634-W (standard issue) Boy Blue Boy Blue (Mono) 
7" single -- United Artists UA-XW 634-W (promo issue) This song (both mono and stereo) is edited from the Eldorado album version. The orchestra intro is completely cut, and begins with the second guitar intro riff. The first chorus and a piece of the bridge is cut leading into the string theme prior to the spoken part. Everything from the third verse to the sixth verse is cut, as well as the instrumentation between the sixth verse and the fourth chorus.
Eldorado Running Time: 4:50This song is edited from the Eldorado album version and fades shortly following the final chorus thus cutting the instrumental ending.
These edits of Boy Blue (both mono and stereo) and Eldorado have never been issued on CD. * Show/Hide release information for Boy Blue and Eldorado... Evil Woman October 1975 Evil Woman Running Time: 3:16
Evil Woman 10538 Overture (Live) 
7" single -- United Artists UA-XW 729-Y (standard issue) Evil Woman Evil Woman (Mono) 
7" single -- United Artists UA-XW 729-Y (promo issue) This song (both mono and stereo) is edited from the Face The Music album version. It cuts the orchestral intro, the "You made a fool of me..." intro, a small portion of the piano on the intro, two lines from the first verse, a very large portion of the instrumental bridge, and one line from the third verse. It also fades early.
10538 Overture (Live) Running Time: 5:23This song is the same as the European The Night The Light Went On In Long Beach album version.
These edits of Evil Woman (both mono and stereo) and 10538 Overture (Live) have never been issued on CD. * Show/Hide release information for Evil Woman and 10538 Overture (Live)... Strange Magic February 1976 Strange Magic Running Time: 3:25
Strange Magic New World Rising 
7" single -- United Artists UA-XW 770-Y (standard issue) Strange Magic Strange Magic (Mono) 
7" single -- United Artists UA-XW 770-Y (promo issue) This song (both mono and stereo) is edited from the Face The Music album version. It cuts the orchestral intro, a small portion of the guitar on the intro, and the next to last two choruses.
New World Rising Running Time: 4:07This song is the same as the On The Third Day album version, including the Ocean Breakup Reprise part.
The mono edit of Strange Magic has never been issued on CD. * Show/Hide release information for Strange Magic and New World Rising... Showdown July 1976 Showdown Running Time: 3:54
Showdown Daybreaker (Live) 
7" single -- United Artists UA-XW 842-Y (standard issue) Showdown Showdown (Mono) 
7" single -- United Artists UA-XW 842-Y (promo issue) This song (both mono and stereo) is edited from the On The Third Day album version and fades about eighteen seconds earlier.
Daybreaker (Live) Running Time: 3:33This song is edited from the European The Night The Light Went On In Long Beach album version. It cuts the spoken intro and part of the instrumentation, beginning with the main melody. It also fades early, cutting the final keyboard notes and drums.
The edit of Showdown on this single is the same edit used for the 1973 single. This edit of Daybreaker has never been issued on CD. The mono version of Showdown has never been issued on CD. * Show/Hide release information for Showdown and Daybreaker (Live)... Livin' Thing October 1976 Livin' Thing Running Time: 3:32
Livin' Thing Ma-Ma-Ma Belle 
7" single -- United Artists UA-XW 888-Y (standard issue) Livin' Thing Livin' Thing (Mono) 
7" single -- United Artists UA-XW 888-Y (promo issue) Livin' Thing The B-side has no groove 
12" single -- United Artists SP-137 (promo only) This song is the same as the A New World Record album version.
Ma-Ma-Ma Belle Running Time: 3:25This song is edited from the On The Third Day album version and fades during the last half of the third chorus.
The edit of Ma-Ma-Ma Belle on this single is the same edit used for the 1974 single and has never been issued on CD. The mono version of Livin' Thing has never been issued on CD. The 12" promo single is a one-sided record on translucent blue vinyl. It is packaged in a plain white sleeve with "New ELO" rubber-stamped on the front cover and a completely blank back cover. The record itself is a one-sided record, with the A-side having the song and printed label and the B-side having no groove in the record and a blank label. * Show/Hide release information for Livin' Thing and Ma-Ma-Ma Belle... Do Ya February 1977 Do Ya Running Time: 3:46
Do Ya Nightrider 
7" single -- United Artists UA-XW 939-Y (standard issue) Do Ya Do Ya (Mono) 
7" single -- United Artists UA-XW 939-Y (promo issue) This song (both mono and stereo) is the same as the A New World Record album version.
Nightrider Running Time: 4:26This song is the same as the Face The Music album version.
The mono edit of Do Ya has never been issued on CD. * Show/Hide release information for Do Ya and Nightrider... Telephone Line May 1977 Telephone Line Running Time: 4:03
Telephone Line Poor Boy (The Greenwood) 
7" single -- United Artists UA-XW 1000 (standard green vinyl issue) 
7" single -- United Artists UA-XW 1000 (standard black vinyl issue) Telephone Line Telephone Line (Mono) 
7" single -- United Artists UA-XW 1000 (promo green vinyl issue) This song (both mono and stereo) is edited from the A New World Record album version. It cuts the dialing sound on the intro and it fades early, missing a portion of the second chorus.
Poor Boy (The Greenwood) Running Time: 2:58This song is the same as the Eldorado album version.
The edits of Telephone Line (both mono and stereo) have never been issued on CD. The promo issue was only ever issued on green vinyl. * Show/Hide release information for Telephone Line and Poor Boy (The Greenwood)... Turn To Stone November 1977 Turn To Stone Running Time: 3:48
Turn To Stone Mister Kingdom 
7" single -- Jet / United Artists JT-XW 1099 (standard issue) Turn To Stone Turn To Stone (Mono) 
7" single -- Jet / United Artists JT-XW 1099 (promo issue) This song (both mono and stereo) is the same as the Out Of The Blue album version.
Mister Kingdom Running Time: 5:03This song is edited from the Eldorado album version, cutting the string intro and fading early.
This mono edit of Turn To Stone and this edit of Mister Kingdom have never been issued on CD. * Show/Hide release information for Turn To Stone and Mister Kingdom... Sweet Talkin' Woman March 1978 Sweet Talkin' Woman Running Time: 3:41
Sweet Talkin' Woman Fire On High 
7" single -- Jet / United Artists JT-XW 1145 (standard purple vinyl issue) 
7" single -- Jet / United Artists JT-XW 1145 (standard red vinyl issue) 
7" single -- Jet / United Artists JT-XW 1145 (standard black vinyl issue) Sweet Talkin' Woman Sweet Talkin' Woman (Mono) 
7" single -- Jet / United Artists JT-XW 1145 (promo purple vinyl issue) 
7" single -- Jet / United Artists JT-XW 1145 (promo black vinyl issue) This song (both mono and stereo) is the basically the same as the Out Of The Blue album version except it actually runs at a slightly faster speed causing it to be ten seconds shorter than the album version.
Fire On High Running Time: 4:02This song is edited from the Face The Music album version, cutting the intro.
These faster versions of Sweet Talkin' Woman (both mono and stereo) have never been issued on CD. The red vinyl edition is extremely rare and it's origins are unclear.
* Show/Hide release information for Sweet Talkin' Woman and Fire On High... Mr. Blue Sky June 1978 Mr. Blue Sky Running Time: 3:48
Mr. Blue Sky One Summer Dream 
7" single -- Jet / CBS ZS8 5050 (standard issue) Mr. Blue Sky Mr. Blue Sky (Mono) 
7" single -- Jet / CBS ZS8 5050 (advance promo issue) 
7" single -- Jet / CBS ZS8 5050 (standard promo issue) Mr. Blue Sky (Promo Version) Mr. Blue Sky (Promo Version) 
12" single -- Jet/CBS AS 474 (promo only) This song is edited from the Out Of The Blue album version. It cuts the rain and radio tuning at the song's beginning and cuts the entire Concerto coda part at the song’s end.
One Summer Dream Running Time: VariableThis song is edited from the Face The Music album version, fading early. It is also reverse stereo, with the right channel in the left and vice versa.
Mr. Blue Sky (Promo Version) Running Time: 5:05This song is the same as the full Out Of The Blue album version.
The mono version of Mr. Blue Sky has never been issued on CD. The actual point of fade on One Summer Dream varies. There appears to be at least six different fades on this single and it's unclear why there is such wide variation. Speculation is that the singles were pressed in different plants or at different times, thus each one had its own "at the plant" fade made. These edits of One Summer Dream have never been issued on CD.
The 12" promo single has the same song and the same version on both sides.
* Show/Hide release information for Mr. Blue Sky (all versions) and One Summer Dream... It's Over October 1978 It's Over / It's Over (Long Version) Running Time: 3:56
It's Over The Whale 
7" single -- Jet / CBS ZS8 5052 (standard issue) It's Over (Long Version) It's Over (Short Version) 
7" single -- Jet / CBS ZS8 5052 (promo issue) This song is edited from the Out Of The Blue album version, cutting the orchestral intro.
The Whale Running Time: 4:58This song is edited from the Out Of The Blue album version, fading six seconds early.
It's Over (Short Version) Running Time: 3:36This song is edited from the Out Of The Blue album version, cutting the orchestral intro and next to last chorus.
These edits of It's Over have never been issued on CD. This is the first promo single for ELO that does not have a stereo and mono side. Instead, both sides are stereo, but they are slightly different edits with one side described on the label as the "Long Version" and the other described on the label as the "Short Version". The version described as the "Long Version" is the same version as the regular It's Over single A-side.
This slight edit of The Whale from the singles B-side was mistakenly put onto the first CD issues of Out Of The Blue and was on all subsequent releases until the 2007 remaster.
* Show/Hide release information for It's Over (all versions) and The Whale... Shine A Little Love May 1979 Shine A Little Love Running Time: 4:10
Shine A Little Love Jungle 
7" single -- Jet / CBS ZS8 5057 (standard issue) Shine A Little Love Shine A Little Love (Mono) 
7" single -- Jet / CBS ZS8 5057 (promo issue) This song (both mono and stereo) is edited from the Discovery album version, cutting the choral intro.
Jungle Running Time: 3:52This song is the same as the Out Of The Blue album version.
This mono edit of Shine A Little Love has never been issued on CD. * Show/Hide release information for Shine A Little Love and Jungle... Don't Bring Me Down July 1979 Don't Bring Me Down Running Time: 4:07
Don't Bring Me Down Dreaming Of 4000 
7" single -- Jet / CBS ZS9 5060 (standard issue) Don't Bring Me Down Don't Bring Me Down 
7" single -- Jet / CBS ZS9 5060 (promo issue) This song is the same as the Discovery album version.
Dreaming Of 4000 Running Time: 5:04This song is the same as the On The Third Day album version.
The promo single has the exact same song on both sides. * Show/Hide release information for Don't Bring Me Down and Dreaming Of 4000... Confusion October 1979 Confusion Running Time: 3:43
Confusion Poker 
7" single -- Jet / CBS ZS9 5064 (standard issue) Confusion Confusion 
7" single -- Jet / CBS ZS9 5064 (promo issue) This song is the same as the Discovery album version.
Poker Running Time: 3:29This song is edited from the Face The Music album version, fading two seconds early.
The promo single has the exact same song on both sides. * Show/Hide release information for Confusion and Poker... Last Train To London November 1979 Last Train To London Running Time: 4:32
Last Train To London Down Home Town 
7" single -- Jet / CBS ZS9 5067 (standard issue) Last Train To London Last Train To London 
7" single -- Jet / CBS ZS9 5067 (promo issue) This song is the same as the Discovery album version.
Down Home Town Running Time: 3:52This song is edited from the Face The Music album version, with a fade in so that only about half of the backwards Waterfall intro is included.
The promo single has the exact same song on both sides. * Show/Hide release information for Last Train To London and Down Home Town... I'm Alive May 1980 I'm Alive Running Time: 3:45
I'm Alive Drum Dreams 
7" single -- MCA MCA-41246 (standard issue) I'm Alive I'm Alive 
7" single -- MCA MCA-41246 (promo issue) This song is the same as the Xanadu album version.
Drum Dreams Running Time: 3:08This is an original B-side.
Drum Dreams has never been issued on CD. The promo single has the exact same song on both sides.
The promo single included a small, one-side paper insert advertising the film and instructing DJs and promoters on the proper pronunciation of "Xanadu."
* Show/Hide release information for I'm Alive and Drum Dreams... Xanadu
with Olivia Newton-JohnJune 1980 Xanadu Running Time: 3:29
Xanadu Whenever You're Away From Me 
7" single -- MCA MCA-41285 (standard issue) Xanadu Xanadu 
7" single -- MCA MCA-41285 (promo issue) 
10" picture disc single -- MCA MCA-10384 This song is the same as the Xanadu album version.
Whenever You're Away From Me Running Time: 4:15This song is performed by Olivia Newton-John and Gene Kelly and has no Jeff Lynne involvement.
The picture sleeves appearing with some USA singles are actually Belgian single picture sleeves, with the USA single imported to Belgium, rather than producing it themselves. The 10" picture disc is an extremely rare promotional item.
The promo 7" single has the exact same song on both sides.
* Show/Hide release information for Xanadu and Drum Dreams... All Over The World July 1980 All Over The World Running Time: 4:03
All Over The World Drum Dreams 
7" single -- MCA MCA-41289 (standard issue) All Over The World All Over The World 
7" single -- MCA MCA-41289 (promo issue) This song is the same as the Xanadu album version.
Drum Dreams Running Time: 3:08This is an original B-side.
Drum Dreams has never been issued on CD. The promo single has the exact same song on both sides.
* Show/Hide release information for All Over The World and Drum Dreams... Hold On Tight July 1981 Hold On Tight Running Time: 3:07
Hold On Tight When Time Stood Still 
7" single -- Jet / CBS ZS5 02408 (standard issue) Hold On Tight Hold On Tight (Short Version) 
7" single -- Jet / CBS ZS5 02408 (promo issue) Hold On Tight Time Pre-Release Montage 
12" single -- CBS / Jet AS 1252 (promo only) This song is edited from the Time album, fading very quickly on the last note as it would lead into Epilogue.
When Time Stood Still Running Time: 3:35This is an original B-side.
Hold On Tight (Short Version) Running Time: 3:00This song is edited from the Time album, cutting the guitar intro (starting directly with the piano) and fading very quickly on the last note as it would lead into Epilogue.
Time Pre-Release Montage Running Time: 13:26This is a montage of approximately a minute of each song from the Time album (excluding Prologue and Epilogue) in the order that they appear on the album. Each song is faded in and faded out, back to back to each other.
These versions of Hold On Tight and the Time Pre-Release Montage have never been issued on CD. The A-side of all singles (regular, 7" promo and 12" promo) are all the same edit.
* Show/Hide release information for Hold On Tight (all versions), When Time Stood Still and Time Pre-Release Montage... Twilight November 1981 Twilight Running Time: 3:28
Twilight Julie Don't Live Here 
7" single -- Jet / CBS ZS5 02559 (standard issue) Twilight Twilight 
7" single -- Jet / CBS ZS5 02559 (promo issue) Twilight Julie Don't Live Here 
12" single -- CBS / Jet AS 1319 (promo only) This song is edited from the Time album, fading in and including a small part of Prologue. It also fades just as the song ends and does not include the between song part heard on the Time album.
Julie Don't Live Here Running Time: 3:44This is an original B-side.
The 7" promo single has the exact same song on both sides. * Show/Hide release information for Twilight and Julie Don't Live Here... Rain Is Falling January 1982 Rain Is Falling Running Time: 3:57
Rain Is Falling Another Heart Breaks 
7" single -- Jet / CBS ZS5 02693 (standard issue) Rain Is Falling Rain Is Falling 
7" single -- Jet / CBS ZS5 02693 (promo issue) This song is edited from the Time album, fading shortly before the merge with From The End Of The World.
Another Heart Breaks Running Time: 3:50This song is the same as the Time album version.
The 7" promo single has the exact same song on both sides. * Show/Hide release information for Rain Is Falling and Another Heart Breaks... Rock 'N' Roll Is King June 1983 Rock 'N' Roll Is King Running Time: 3:08
Rock 'N' Roll Is King After All 
7" single -- Jet / CBS ZS4 03964 (standard yellow label issue) 
7" single -- Jet / CBS ZS4 03964 (standard blue label issue) Rock 'N' Roll Is King Rock 'N' Roll Is King 
7" single -- Jet / CBS ZS4 03964 (promo issue) Rock 'N' Roll Is King Cum On Feel The Noize 
12" single -- CBS / Jet AS 1724 (promo only) This song is Unique. It is basically the same as the Secret Messages album version but it cuts the between song segment attached to the beginning of the track. Unlike the album version, the final guitar note rings for about six seconds before the final fade and does not include the cross fade into the Secret Messages Outro. Presumably, this is how the song would have normally ended on side three of the original double Secret Messages LP.
After All Running Time: 2:26This is an original B-side.
Cum On Feel The Noize Running Time: 4:49This song is performed by Quiet Riot and has no Jeff Lynne involvement.
The 7" promo single has the exact same song on both sides. The 12" promo single an interesting cross-promotion, with ELO and Quiet Riot (both CBS artists) on the same promo record.
This version of After All is an extended version of the version that was supposed to appear on the original double Secret Messages album.
* Show/Hide release information for Rock 'N' Roll Is King and After All... Four Little Diamonds September 1983 Four Little Diamonds Running Time: 3:58
Four Little Diamonds Letter From Spain 
7" single -- Jet / CBS ZS4 04130 (standard issue) Four Little Diamonds Four Little Diamonds 
7" single -- Jet / CBS ZS4 04130 (promo issue) Four Little Diamonds (Album Version) Secret Messages Intro / Secret Messages 
12" single -- CBS / Jet AS 1736 (promo only) This song is edited from the Secret Messages album, cutting the count in intro.
Letter From Spain Running Time: 2:52This song is the same as on the Secret Messages album.
Four Little Diamonds (Album Version) Running Time: 4:05This song is the same as on the Secret Messages album.
Secret Messages Intro / Secret Messages Running Time: 4:43These songs are edited from the Secret Messages album, fading very quickly on the closing vocals and cutting the morse code ending.
This edit of Four Little Diamonds has never been issued on CD. The 7" promo single has the exact same song on both sides.
The 12" single is a promo only item. It's interesting to note that this contains the full album version of Four Little Diamonds rather than the single version and both the Secret Messages Intro and Secret Messages. The Secret Messages Intro is not credited on the single.
* Show/Hide release information for Four Little Diamonds (all versions), Letter From Spain, Secret Messages Intro and Secret Messages... Stranger October 1983 Stranger Running Time: 4:18
Stranger Train Of Gold 
7" single -- Jet / CBS ZS4 04208 (standard issue) Stranger Stranger 
7" single -- Jet / CBS ZS4 04208 (promo issue) This song is edited from the Secret Messages album, cutting the keyboard and laughter effects from the song's intro.
Train Of Gold Running Time: 4:06This song is edited from the Secret Messages album, cutting most of the "cheep, cheep" intro, fading in so that only three seconds worth is heard before the guitar part begins the song.
These edits of Stranger and Train Of Gold have never been issued on CD. The 7" promo single has the exact same song on both sides.
* Show/Hide release information for Stranger and Train Of Gold... Calling America February 1986 Calling America Running Time: 3:27
Calling America Caught In A Trap 
7" single -- CBS Associated ZS4 05766 (standard issue) Calling America Calling America 
7" single -- CBS Associated ZS4 05766 (promo issue) Calling America Calling America 
12" single -- CBS Associated ZAS 2254 (promo only) This song is the same as on the Balance Of Power album.
Caught In A Trap Running Time: 3:45This is an original B-side.
The 7" and 12" promo singles have the exact same song on both sides. The 12" single is a promo only item.
* Show/Hide release information for Calling America and Caught In A Trap... So Serious April 1986 So Serious Running Time: 2:44
So Serious Endless Lies 
7" single -- CBS Associated ZS4 05892 (standard issue) So Serious So Serious 
7" single -- CBS Associated ZS4 05892 (promo issue) So Serious So Serious 
12" single -- CBS Associated ZAS 2321 (promo only) This song is the same as on the Balance Of Power album.
Endless Lies Running Time: 3:00This song is the same as on the Balance Of Power album.
The picture sleeve for the 7" single is actually quite rare, only known to have been distributed in limited quantities on the eastern coast. Most commercial singles were issued in the plain white sleeve only. The 7" and 12" promo singles have the exact same song on both sides.
The 12" single is a promo only item.
* Show/Hide release information for So Serious and Endless Lies... Alright April 2001 Alright Running Time: 3:12
Alright 
CD single -- Epic ESK 16520 (promo issue) This song is different from the Zoom album in that it is missing Richard Tandy's backing keyboard.
No standard release of this single was done. Only the CD single promo, featuring the title song only, was released. The CD single is in a standard jewel case and the front insert is single sided, being blank on the back side. * Show/Hide release information for Alright... Moment In Paradise Summer 2001 Alright Running Time: 3:35
Moment In Paradise
Alright (PBS 2001 Version)
Mr. Blue Sky (PBS 2001 Version)
Livin' Thing (PBS 2001 Version)
CD single -- Epic ESK 54838 (promo issue) This song the same as the Zoom album version.
Alright (PBS 2001 Version) Running Time: 3:19This song the same as the Zoom Tour Live DVD.
Mr. Blue Sky (PBS 2001 Version) Running Time: 3:39This song the same as the Zoom Tour Live DVD.
Livin' Thing (PBS 2001 Version) Running Time: 4:12This song the same as the Zoom Tour Live DVD.
No standard release of this single was done. Only the CD single promo, featuring the same tracks as one of the standard European CD singles, was released. The CD single is in a standard jewel case with no front insert. * Show/Hide release information for Moment In Paraside, Mr. Blue Sky (PBS 2001 Version), Alright (PBS 2001 Version) and Livin' Thing (PBS 2001 Version)... When I Was A Boy 2015 September 25 When I Was A Boy Running Time: 3:13
When I Was A Boy 
Digital single -- Columbia ISRC USSM11506458 
CD single -- Columbia ? (promo issue only) This song the same as the Alone In The Universe album version.
This single was only commercially released as a digital single, available nearly three weeks before the Alone In The Universe album from which it was taken. * Show/Hide release information for When I Was A Boy... From Out Of Nowhere 2016 September 26 From Out Of Nowhere Running Time: 3:14
From Out Of Nowhere Digital single -- Columbia ISRC USSM11904866 This song the same as the From Out Of Nowhere album version.
This song was released commercially only as a digital single. * Show/Hide release information for From Out Of Nowhere... Reissues
There were 14 single reissues for the oldies music market. The first series, issued under the Silver Spotlight label for United Artists, included six singles. The last four in this series were issued in 1978, just before the distribution deal changed from United Artists to CBS. It's uncertain if these singles had very limited pressings or were recalled, but they are very rare and difficult to obtain in the current collector market. Starting in 1980, CBS issued the second series of five more singles under the Golden Oldies label. In 1991, CBS issued the third series of three (not five) singles under the Collectibles label. Interestingly, the Collectibles singles and the Golden Oldies singles had the same songs and stock numbers with only the label and sleeve changing. For unknown reasons, the Collectibles reissues of Turn To Stone/Sweet Talkin' Woman and Roll Over Beethoven/Showdown were never pressed or released. This was probably because there were plenty of the 1980s era Golden Oldies stock still available at the time. Note also that there are faked images of these singles on some discography sites, but they are not real singles.
Then, when singles seemed to be a thing of the past (especially reissue singles), a collectable box set called The UK Singles Volume One 1972-1978 was released in September 2018 that reissued the first fifteeen UK 7" singles as well as the first and only EP record, in reproduction sleeves and labels. This set was sold worldwide and was not just a UK exclusive (although marketed in the UK and USA only). All sleeves, although reproductions, were a thicker cardboard material rather than the original thin paper material. All single labels were descreetly marked as copyright 2018 and by Epic Records.
The producers of the set did a remarkable job in reproducing all the unique edits from the original singles. By careful listening, it is clear that in many instances, they used actual recordings of the original singles, cleaned them and remastered them; this was noticable on the live B-side tracks from the Polydor singles and the unique version of One Summer Dream. In other instances, they reproduced the original edits from digital album material, with this likely being done for songs such as Nightrider and Mister Kingdom. The one exception is 10538 Overture, which was a reproduced edit (just an early fade), that is very close to the original UK single edit, but it still not quite right.
There has been no digital release of songs from the The UK Singles Volume One 1972-1978 box set, leaving many of these very rare and unique edits still unavailable digitally in any form.
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Issue Date Singles Comments Roll Over Beethoven / Showdown August 1974 Roll Over Beethoven Running Time: 4:32
Roll Over Beethoven Showdown 
7" single -- Silver Spotlight Series, United Artists XW-513-W This song is edited from the full 7:03 ELO 2 album version, where the mellotron intro and the second Beethoven's Fifth sequences are cut from the intro; one of the keyboard sequences, the guitar solo and the following keyboard/cello part are cut from the first instrumental bridge; the entire second chorus is cut; and the second instrumental bridge except the guitar solo is cut.
Showdown Running Time: 3:47This song is edited from the On The Third Day album version and fades about eighteen seconds earlier.
These songs are the same edits as the original issues of Roll Over Beethoven (United Artists UA-XW 173-W) and Showdown (United Artists UA-XW 337-W). * Show/Hide release information for Roll Over Beethoven and Showdown... Can't Get It Out Of My Head / Strange Magic 1978 Can't Get It Out Of My Head Running Time: 3:07
Can't Get It Out Of My Head Strange Magic 
7" single -- Silver Spotlight Series, United Artists US X 1176-Y This version differs from the Eldorado version is that it's missing the whole first chorus, the second verse and a large portion of the intstrumental bridge.
Strange Magic Running Time: 3:20This version differs from the Face The Music in that it's missing the orchestral, instrumental intro and a shortened guitar intro. The next to last two choruses are also cut.
* Show/Hide release information for Can't Get It Out Of My Head and Strange Magic... Livin' Thing / Evil Woman 1978 Livin' Thing Running Time: 3:32
Livin' Thing Evil Woman 
7" single -- Silver Spotlight Series, United Artists US X 1177-Y This song is the same as the A New World Record album version.
Evil Woman Running Time: 3:16This song is edited from the Face The Music album version. It cuts the orchestral intro, the "You made a fool of me..." intro, a small portion of the piano on the intro, two lines from the first verse, a very large portion of the instrumental bridge, and one line from the third verse. It also fades early.
These songs are the same edits as the original issues of Livin' Thing (United Artists UA-XW 888-Y) and Evil Woman (United Artists UA-XW 729-Y). * Show/Hide release information for Livin' Thing and Evil Woman... Do Ya / Nightrider 1978 Do Ya Running Time: 3:46
Do Ya Nightrider 
7" single -- Silver Spotlight Series, United Artists US X 1178-Y This song is the same as the A New World Record album version.
Nightrider Running Time: 4:26This song is the same as the Face The Music album version.
These songs are the same edits as the original issue of Do Ya (United Artists UA-XW 939-Y). * Show/Hide release information for Do Ya and Nightrider... Telephone Line / Boy Blue 1978 Telephone Line Running Time: 4:03
Telephone Line Boy Blue 
7" single -- Silver Spotlight Series, United Artists US X 1179-Y This song is edited from the A New World Record album version. It cuts the dialing sound on the intro and it fades early, missing a portion of the second chorus.
Boy Blue Running Time: 2:54This song is edited from the Eldorado album version. The orchestra intro is completely cut, and begins with the second guitar intro riff. The first chorus and a piece of the bridge is cut leading into the string theme prior to the spoken part. Everything from the third verse to the sixth verse is cut, as well as the instrumentation between the sixth verse and the fourth chorus.
These songs are the same edits as the original issues of Telephone Line (United Artists UA-XW 1000) and Boy Blue (United Artists UA-XW 634-W). * Show/Hide release information for Telephone Line and Boy Blue... Ma-Ma-Ma Belle / 10538 Overture 1978 Ma-Ma-Ma Belle Running Time: 3:21
Ma-Ma-Ma Belle 10538 Overture 
7" single -- Silver Spotlight Series, United Artists US X 1180-Y This song is edited from the On The Third Day album version and fades during the last half of the third chorus.
10538 Overture Running Time: 5:22This song is edited from the No Answer album version, fading about 15 seconds early.
Ma-Ma-Ma Belle is the same edit as the original issue of Ma-Ma-Ma Belle (United Artists UA-XW 405-W). 10538 Overture does not use the original single edit. * Show/Hide release information for Ma-Ma-Ma Belle and 10538 Overture... Turn To Stone / Sweet Talkin' Woman December 1980 Turn To Stone Running Time: 3:48
Turn To Stone Sweet Talkin' Woman 
7" single -- Golden Oldies Jet / CBS ZS8 5150 This song is the same as the Out Of The Blue album version.
Sweet Talkin' Woman Running Time: 3:50This song is the same as the Out Of The Blue album version.
Sweet Talkin' Woman does not use the fast single version. * Show/Hide release information for Turn To Stone and Sweet Talkin' Woman... Telephone Line / Evil Woman December 1980 Telephone Line Running Time: 4:38
Telephone Line Evil Woman 
7" single -- Golden Oldies Jet / CBS ZS8 5151 
7" single -- Golden Oldies Jet / CBS ZS8 5151 (alternate label) This song is the same as the A New World Record album version.
Evil Woman Running Time: 4:15This song is edited from the Face The Music album version, cutting the intro and fading about six seconds early.
The edits of these songs are not the same edits as the original issues on the United Artists label. The edit of Evil Woman is unique for a USA issued single, however this edit is the same as the UK single and is common on many ELO compilations. There exists an alternate label with the stock number and copyright information in a white rectangle. The meaning of this is uncertain, but it is presumed that this is a repressing of the single and the white rectangle was designed for a barcode label (as seen on later singles), but for whatever reason the barcode was not used.
* Show/Hide release information for Telephone Line and Evil Woman... Roll Over Beethoven / Showdown December 1980 Roll Over Beethoven Running Time: 4:32
Roll Over Beethoven Showdown 
7" single -- Golden Oldies Jet / CBS ZS8 5152 
7" single -- Golden Oldies Jet / CBS ZS8 5152 (alternate label) This song is edited from the full 7:03 ELO 2 album version, where the mellotron intro and the second Beethoven's Fifth sequences are cut from the intro; one of the keyboard sequences, the guitar solo and the following keyboard/cello part are cut from the first instrumental bridge; the entire second chorus is cut; and the second instrumental bridge except the guitar solo is cut.
Showdown Running Time: 4:11This song is the same as the On The Third Day album version.
The edit of Roll Over Beethoven is the same as the original single (United Artists UA-XW 173-W), however the version of Showdown is not an edit and is not the same as the original single. There exists an alternate label with the stock number and copyright information in a white rectangle. The meaning of this is uncertain, but it is presumed that this is a repressing of the single and the white rectangle was designed for a barcode label (as seen on later singles), but for whatever reason the barcode was not used.
* Show/Hide release information for Roll Over Beethoven and Showdown... Don't Bring Me Down / Shine A Little Love December 1980 Don't Bring Me Down Running Time: 4:06
Don't Bring Me Down Shine A Little Love 
7" single -- Golden Oldies Jet / CBS ZS8 5153 
7" single -- Golden Oldies Jet / CBS ZS8 5153 (alternate label) This song is the same as the Discovery album version.
Shine A Little Love Running Time: 4:11This song is edited from the Discovery album version, cutting the choral intro.
Shine A Little Love is the same edit as the original issue (Jet / CBS ZS8 5057). There exists an alternate label with the stock number and copyright information in a white rectangle. The meaning of this is uncertain, but it is presumed that this is a repressing of the single and the white rectangle was designed for a barcode label (as seen on later singles), but for whatever reason the barcode was not used.
* Show/Hide release information for Don't Bring Me Down and Shine A Little Love... Hold On Tight / Mr. Blue Sky August 1982 Hold On Tight Running Time: 3:07
Hold On Tight Mr. Blue Sky 
7" single -- Golden Oldies Jet / CBS ZS8 03086 This song is edited from the Time album, fading very quickly on the last note as it would lead into Epilogue.
Mr. Blue Sky Running Time: 3:47This song is edited from the Out Of The Blue album version. It cuts the rain and radio tuning at the song's beginning and cuts the entire Concerto part at the song’s end.
These songs are the same edits as the original issues of Hold On Tight (Jet / CBS ZS5 02408) and Mr. Blue Sky (Jet / CBS ZS8 5050). * Show/Hide release information for Hold On Tight and Mr. Blue Sky... Telephone Line / Evil Woman 1991 Telephone Line Running Time: 4:38
Telephone Line Evil Woman 
7" single -- Collectables Jet / CBS ZS8 5151 This song is the same as the A New World Record album version.
Evil Woman Running Time: 4:15This song is edited from the Face The Music album version, cutting the intro and fading about six seconds early.
The edits of these songs are not the same edits as the original issues on the United Artists label, however, they are the same as the Golden Oldies reissue single. * Show/Hide release information for Telephone Line and Evil Woman... Don't Bring Me Down / Shine A Little Love 1991 Don't Bring Me Down Running Time: 4:06
Don't Bring Me Down Shine A Little Love 
7" single -- Collectables Jet / CBS ZS8 5153 This song is the same as the Discovery album version.
Shine A Little Love Running Time: 4:11This song is edited from the Discovery album version, cutting the choral intro.
These edits are the same as the Golden Oldies reissue single. * Show/Hide release information for Don't Bring Me Down and Shine A Little Love... Hold On Tight / Mr. Blue Sky 1991 Hold On Tight Running Time: 3:07
Hold On Tight Mr. Blue Sky 
7" single -- Collectables Jet / CBS ZS8 03086 This song is edited from the Time album, fading very quickly on the last note as it would lead into Epilogue.
Mr. Blue Sky Running Time: 3:47This song is edited from the Out Of The Blue album version. It cuts the rain and radio tuning at the song's beginning and cuts the entire Concerto part at the song’s end.
These edits are the same as the Golden Oldies reissue single. * Show/Hide release information for Hold On Tight and Mr. Blue Sky... 10538 Overture 2018 September 21 10538 Overture Running Time: 4:04
10538 Overture First Movement (Jumping Biz) 
7" single -- Harvest HAR 5053 This song is edited from the Electric Light Orchestra album version and fades about 10 seconds after the last chorus with the fade starting immediately after the final lyric.
First Movement (Jumping Biz) Running Time: 3:03This song is the same as the Electric Light Orchestra version.
* Show/Hide release information for 10538 Overture and First Movement (Jumping Biz)... Roll Over Beethoven 2018 September 21 Roll Over Beethoven Running Time: 4:33
Roll Over Beethoven Queen Of The Hours 
7" single -- Harvest HAR 5063 This song is edited from the full 7:03 ELO 2 album version, where the mellotron intro and the second Beethoven's Fifth sequences are cut from the intro; one of the keyboard sequences, the guitar solo and the following keyboard/cello part are cut from the first instrumental bridge; the entire second chorus is cut; and the second instrumental bridge except the guitar solo is cut.
Queen Of The Hours Running Time: 3:26This song is the same as the Electric Light Orchestra version.
* Show/Hide release information for Roll Over Beethoven and Queen Of The Hours... Showdown 2018 September 21 Showdown Running Time: 4:11
Showdown In Old England Town (Instrumental) 
7" single -- Harvest HAR 5077 This is an original A-side in England, although it appeared in many other countries on the On The Third Day album using the same version.
In Old England Town (Instrumental) Running Time: 2:44This is an original B-side, adapted from the original ELO 2 version of In Old England Town (Boogie No. 2).
* Show/Hide release information for Showdown and In Old England Town (Instrumental)... Ma-Ma-Ma Belle 2018 September 21 Ma-Ma-Ma Belle Running Time: 3:21
Ma-Ma-Ma Belle Oh No Not Susan 
7" single -- Warner Brothers K 16349 This song is a unique mix of the song. It is similar to the On The Third Day album version except it cuts half the guitar/cello riff following the first chorus and two lines from the second and third choruses. In addition, it adds a distinctive phased string interlude following the second chorus and fades a few seconds early.
Oh No Not Susan Running Time: 2:50This song is edited from the On The Third Day album version, fading in past the intro and fading out early.
* Show/Hide release information for Ma-Ma-Ma Belle and Daybreaker... Can't Get It Out Of My Head 2018 September 21 Can't Get It Out Of My Head Running Time: 3:11
Can't Get It Out Of My Head Illusions In G Major 
7" single -- Warner Brothers K 16510 This song is edited from the Eldorado album version. It cuts the second verse, the second chorus and two parts of the moog synthesizer from the instrumental bridge.
Illusions In G Major Running Time: 2:38This song is the same as the Eldorado version.
* Show/Hide release information for Can't Get It Out Of My Head and Illusions In G Major... Evil Woman 2018 September 21 Evil Woman Running Time: 4:15
Evil Woman 10538 Overture (Live) 
7" single -- Jet JET 764 This song is edited from the Face The Music album version. It cuts the orchestral intro and fades early.
10538 Overture (Live) Running Time: 5:23This song is the same as the European The Night The Light Went On In Long Beach album version. It includes a portion of the Do Ya guitar riff midway through the song.
* Show/Hide release information for Evil Woman and 10538 Overture (Live)... Nightrider 2018 September 21 Nightrider Running Time: 3:44
Nightrider Daybreaker (Live) 
7" single -- Jet JET 769 This song is edited from the Face The Music album version. It cuts part of the instrumental intro and fades early.
Daybreaker (Live) Running Time: 5:03This song is edited from the European The Night The Light Went On In Long Beach album version. It fades in at the start of the spooky, discordant keyboard, string and drum intro, then plays the full song. It fades on the audience cheering after the end of the song.
* Show/Hide release information for Nightrider and Daybreaker (Live)... Strange Magic 2018 September 21 Strange Magic Running Time: 3:25
Strange Magic Showdown (Live) 
7" single -- Jet JET 779 This song is edited from the Face The Music album version. It cuts the orchestral intro, a small portion of the guitar on the intro, and the next to last two choruses.
Showdown (Live) Running Time: 5:01This song edited from the The Night The Light Went On In Long Beach album, fading early.
* Show/Hide release information for Strange Magic and Showdown (Live)... Livin' Thing 2018 September 21 Livin' Thing Running Time: 3:32
Livin' Thing Fire On High 
7" single -- United Artists JET UP 36184 This song is the same as the A New World Record album version.
Fire On High Running Time: 5:30This song is the same as the Face The Music album version, including the long intro.
This was issued on blue vinyl only.
* Show/Hide release information for Livin' Thing and Fire On High... 2018 September 21 Rockaria! Running Time: 3:10
Rockaria! Poker 
7" single -- Jet JET UP 36209 This song is edited from the A New World Record album version, cutting the misstart by opera singer Mary Thomas at the song's beginning.
Poker Running Time: 3:31This song is the same as the Face The Music album version.
* Show/Hide release information for Rockaria! and Poker... Telephone Line 2018 September 21 Telephone Line Running Time: 4:38
Telephone Line Poor Boy (The Greenwood)
King Of The Universe
7" single -- Jet JET UP 36254 This song is the same as the A New World Record album version.
Poor Boy (The Greenwood) Running Time: 2:57This song is the same as the Eldorado album version.
King Of The Universe Running Time: 2:51This song is edited from the On The Third Day album version, cutting the Ocean Breakup part of the song from the song's beginning.
* Show/Hide release information for Telephone Line, Poor Boy (The Greenwood), and King Of The Universe... Turn To Stone 2018 September 21 Turn To Stone Running Time: 3:48
Turn To Stone Mister Kingdom 
7" single -- Jet JET UP 36313 This song is the same as the Out Of The Blue album version.
Mister Kingdom Running Time: 5:32This song is edited from the Eldorado album version, adding a slow fade to the song's end, so that it doesn't have the abrupt end as on the album.
* Show/Hide release information for Turn To Stone and Mister Kingdom... Mr. Blue Sky 2018 September 21 Mr. Blue Sky Running Time: 5:01
Mr. Blue Sky One Summer Dream 
7" single -- Jet JET UP 36342 This song is edited from the Out Of The Blue album version, cutting the rain and radio tuning at the song's beginning.
One Summer Dream Running Time: 4:25This song is a unique mix of the song. It is basically the same as the Face The Music album version, however all the female backing vocals are missing from the mix. Also it cuts half the orchestra intro that contains the vocal part and also fades early.
This was issued on blue vinyl only.
* Show/Hide release information for Mr. Blue Sky and One Summer Dream... Wild West Hero 2018 September 21 Wild West Hero Running Time: 4:41
Wild West Hero Eldorado 
7" single -- Jet JET 109 This song is the same as the Out Of The Blue album version.
Eldorado Running Time: 5:13This song is edited from the Eldorado album version, fading at the song's end, just before the start of Eldorado Finale.
* Show/Hide release information for Wild West Hero and Eldorado... Sweet Talkin' Woman 2018 September 21 Sweet Talkin' Woman Running Time: 3:50
Sweet Talkin' Woman Bluebird Is Dead 
7" single -- Jet JET 121 This song is the same as the Out Of The Blue album version.
Bluebird Is Dead Running Time: 4:22This song is the same as the On The Third Day album version.
* Show/Hide release information for Sweet Talkin' Woman and Bluebird Is Dead... The ELO EP 2018 September 21 Can't Get It Out Of My Head Running Time: 4:21
Can't Get It Out Of My Head
Strange MagicMa-Ma-Ma Belle
Evil Woman
7" EP -- Jet JET ELO 1 This song the same as the Eldorado album version.
Strange Magic Running Time: 4:02This song edited from the Face The Music album version, cutting the orchestral intro.
Ma-Ma-Ma Belle Running Time: 3:52This song edited from the On The Third Day album version, fading during the merge with Dreaming Of 4000.
Evil Woman Running Time: 4:21This song is edited from the Face The Music album version, cutting the orchestral intro.
* Show/Hide release information for Can't Get It Out Of My Head, Strange Magic, Ma-Ma-Ma Belle and Evil Woman...
Premium Releases
In late November of 2018, Genesis Publications released the lavish Wembley Or Bust book. The book included a bonus 7" picture disc single, containing songs from the June 24, 2017 concert at Wembley Stadium (as well as a specially designed ELO spaceship cutout only available in the deluxe edition). This was a worldwide release and not exclusive to the USA.
No other such premium edition singles were released in the USA.
Issue Date Singles Comments Xanadu/Don't Bring Me Down 2018 November Xanadu
Xanadu Don't Bring Me Down 
7" picture disc single -- USSM11708573/USSM11708584
Released with Wembley Or Bust
book set -- Genesis Publications ISBN 9781905662524
(Jeff Lynne)Running Time: 3:22
This is the same version as the Wembley Or Bust audio album releases, including the fade-in and fade-out.
Don't Bring Me Down
(Jeff Lynne)Running Time: 4:13
This is the same version as the Wembley Or Bust audio album releases, including the fade-in and fade-out.The single was available in a special pocket in the back page of the book.
The single is actually misprinted, with the label stating Xanadu is on the A-side and Don't Bring Me Down on the B-side. However, the songs that play are reversed with Don't Bring Me Down on the A-side.
The images on the disc show the band performing Roll Over Beethoven at Wembley
* Show/Hide release information for Xanadu and Don't Bring Me Down... Sales Figures
The RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America) has certified three ELO singles as gold singles, having sold at least half a million each. These singles are Telephone Line (certified on September 23, 1977), Don't Bring Me Down (certified on November 20, 1979) and I'm Alive (certified on July 15, 1980). This certification is based upon the number of singles shipped to retailers, not necessarily how many customers bought the single.Music Charts
The primary measure of the success of a single is by the music chart rating. In turn, these ratings are based upon a combination of sales and radio airplay. The exact formula used to calculate these ratings (using sales and airplay) will vary from year to year and from chart company to chart company.
In the US, the music industry trade magazine Billboard has dominated with the most popular and widely used chart statistics. During ELO's run in the 1970s and 1980s, Billboard rivals Cash Box and Record World did experience some success and dominance in some markets. Cash Box ceased publication in the mid-1990s (and returned in the early 2000s). Record World ceased publication in 1982, thus there are no record charts for them after 1982. Today, when speaking of the Top 100 singles charts, the Billboard music charts is the chart of reference.
ELO spent a total of 341 weeks in the Billboard Top 100 charts and holds the record for having the most Top 40 hits without ever hitting the #1 spot.
Billboard Hot 100 Week 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 10538 Overture
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Entry Date: Did not chartRoll Over Beethoven
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Entry Date: April 28, 197390 85 78 74 66 65 100 79 59 54 52 50 44 42
(July 28, 1973)57 65 Showdown
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Entry Date: December 1, 197390 87 84 76 67 61 57 56 55 53
(February 2, 1974)65 Ma-Ma-Ma Belle
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Entry Date: Did not chartDaybreaker
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Entry Date: May 4, 197495 93 91 87
(May 25, 1974)89 Can't Get It Out Of My Head
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Entry Date: December 21, 197487 76 65 52 41 33 29 23 19 15 11 10 9
(March 15, 1975)18 36 57 Boy Blue
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Entry Date: Did not chartEvil Woman
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Entry Date: November 15, 197587 77 60 49 40 28 24 20 18 16 15 14 13 10
(February 14, 1976)10
(February 21, 1976)26 44 Strange Magic
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Entry Date: March 13, 197671 55 46 41 35 27 22 19 16 15 14
(May 22, 1976)18 25 44 Showdown
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Entry Date: August 7, 197684 74 63 59
(August 28, 1976)68 99 96 Livin' Thing
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Entry Date: October 23, 197688 60 46 40 32 28 26 21 19 15 Chart not published 13
(January 8, 1977)13
(January 15, 1977)17 28 34 38 53 Do Ya
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Entry Date: February 5, 197784 72 57 46 38 33 28 25 24
(April 2, 1977)29 57 100 Telephone Line
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Entry Date: June 11, 197781 65 54 45 39 33 29 26 22 20 16 13 10 9 8 7
(September 24, 1977)7
(October 1, 1977)14 18 31 63 63 97 Turn To Stone
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Entry Date: November 19, 197781 63 46 36 32 27 27 20 18 16 14 13
(February 4, 1978)23 45 69 Sweet Talkin' Woman
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Entry Date: February 17, 197878 61 46 32 29 25 23 22 20 19 17
(April 28, 1978)17
(May 5, 1978)25 29 34 91 Mr. Blue Sky
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Entry Date: June 24, 197879 69 59 49 44 39 36 35
(August 12, 1978)59 97 95 95 It's Over
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Entry Date: October 28, 197890 80 76 75
(November 18, 1978)Shine A Little Love
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Entry Date: May 19, 197957 41 32 25 20 17 15 13 9 8
(July 21, 1979)8
(July 28, 1979)15 17 45 93 Don't Bring Me Down
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Entry Date: August 4, 197941 18 14 6 5 4
(September 8, 1979)4
(September 15, 1979)10 10 11 13 39 41 73 97 Confusion
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Entry Date: October 20, 197975 55 47 42 37
(November 17, 1979)37
(November 24, 1979)57 78 Last Train To London
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Entry Date: December 8, 197983 72 63 63 53 50 44 40 39
(February 2, 1980)66 98 I'm Alive
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Entry Date: May 25, 198071 62 49 40 28 21 18 16
(July 12, 1980)16
(July 20, 1980)29 37 44 58 91 97 Xanadu
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Entry Date: August 10, 198079 63 43 31 26 17 12 11 10 8
(October 12, 1980)8
(October 19, 1980)17 27 51 58 73 94 All Over The World
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Entry Date: August 3, 198061 43 34 27 23 21 18 16 15 13
(October 5, 1980)13
(October 12, 1980)45 57 74 91 100 Hold On Tight
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Entry Date: July 25, 198167 46 39 33 28 21 18 14 12 11 10
(October 3, 1981)10
(October 10, 1981)13 28 33 52 58 73 88 Twilight
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Entry Date: October 24, 198179 67 55 48 43 38
(November 28, 1981)38
(December 5, 1981)69 89 99 Rain Is Falling
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Entry Date: Did not chartRock 'N' Roll Is King
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Entry Date: June 25, 198357 44 39 30 26 24 24 21 19
(August 20, 1983)19
(August 27, 1983)31 57 78 Four Little Diamonds
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Entry Date: October 1, 198389 86
(October 8, 1983)Stranger
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Entry Date: Did not chartCalling America
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Entry Date: February 1, 198691 69 55 50 40 36 33 24 21 18
(April 5, 1986)25 45 58 80 99 So Serious
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Entry Date: Did not chartAlright
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Entry Date: Did not chartWhen I Was A Boy
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Entry Date: Did not chartFrom Out Of Nowhere
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Entry Date: Did not chart
