Stax Does the Beatles: Vinyl Reissue Celebrating Soulful Interpretations
Stax Records and Craft Recordings have announced the upcoming release of the vinyl reissue of the compilation album "Stax Does the Beatles." This album, originally released in 2007, features iconic artists from the Stax label putting their unique spin on Beatles classics. The reissue is set to be released on June 26, 2026, and includes tracks like Otis Redding's "Day Tripper," Isaac Hayes' rendition of "Something," Carla Thomas' live performance of "Yesterday," and Steve Cropper's version of "With a Little Help from My Friends."
The album is now available for pre-order in the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. The reissue of "Stax Does the Beatles" marks the first time the album will be available on vinyl since its limited Record Store Day 2019 exclusive pressing. This new edition of the album features highlights from the original CD release by Stax artists, offering a focused listening experience. The standard pressing of the album is on black vinyl, with exclusive variant drops including Translucent Ruby, Eggdrop Yellow, and Silver Smoke.
Stax artists began covering Beatles tracks in the mid-1960s, with a peak in the late 1960s and early 1970s. The eight-track LP includes vocal and instrumental performances from legendary Stax Records artists, infusing the Beatles' catalog with soul, funk, and R&B influences. The album also features a funk-soul rendition of "Eleanor Rigby" by Booker T. and the M.G.'s, showcasing the diverse interpretations of the Beatles' music by Stax artists.
The mutual appreciation between the Beatles and Stax is well-documented, with the Beatles expressing interest in recording at Stax Studios. Stax Records, founded in 1957 in Memphis, Tennessee, became one of the most influential record labels in the world, launching the careers of artists like Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, Booker T. and the M.G.'s, and many others. The reissue of "Stax Does the Beatles" pays homage to the unique sound and legacy of Stax Records.
In conclusion, the vinyl reissue of "Stax Does the Beatles" offers a fresh perspective on the Beatles' music through the soulful interpretations of Stax artists. This compilation album celebrates the enduring influence of both Stax Records and the Beatles, showcasing the vibrant musical landscape of the 1960s and 1970s.