I thought you meant that the Federal version attached and the Mercury version released later, could be the same recording, but as you can see if you listen to them, they are not.

However, were you really asking if the Federal version attached, was a re-make of the Federal single that was issued in 1954?

I doubt if it was a re-make, as they had left Federal for Mercury even before Federal issued the single for the first time anyway.

Could it be an alternate take?

I do not know. I only have the Federal Platters stuff on a vinyl album, but (as far as I know), the version of "Only You" on that album, was the single version also, and it is that version which you have attached.

The problem here is that some studios kept alternate takes in the 1950's, but most erased them to save tape, once the producer had decided on the best version.

I remember being assured by Coral Records that absolutely no alternate takes existed of any Buddy Holly material, only to be subsequently informed by Norman Petty that he had kept most of Holly's alternate takes and still had them. Apparently he had not bothered to inform Coral of the fact, and of course, they are now coming out in bits and pieces.

Sorry John if I misunderstood the question - I really should read the message before letting my mouth run away with itself.

• RE: I Need Help! The Platters - Only You - John 05/05/2008 08:27:31 EDT (1)