QUEEN queen EKS-75064

The Royal Beginning: Queen’s Self-Titled Debut (EKS 75064)

Today’s entry looks at the genesis of rock royalty. We are examining a mid-70s US repress of Queen, the self-titled debut album by the legendary British band, released on Elektra Records with the catalog number EKS 75064.

No Synthesizers, Just Rock

Originally released in 1973, this album introduced the world to the theatrical power of Freddie Mercury, the orchestral guitar layers of Brian May, and the thunderous rhythm section of Roger Taylor and John Deacon. This debut is significantly heavier and rawer than their later, more polished hits. It features early fan favorites like the driving opener “Keep Yourself Alive,” the epic multi-part saga “Liar,” and the hard-rocking “Son And Daughter.” It captures a hungry band blending heavy metal riffs with glam rock flamboyance and progressive structures.

A Curious Credit

A notable detail for collectors on the jacket of this debut is the credit for the bass player. John Deacon is listed here as “Deacon John,” a reversal suggested by Roger Taylor and Pat Moran at the time to make him sound more interesting. Deacon disliked it, and he was credited correctly on all subsequent albums.

Label and Pressing Details

This specific copy is a 1976 US repress. It features the classic Elektra “Butterfly” label design. Crucially, this version includes the Warner Communications “W” logo in the fine print on the label rim, distinguishing it from the very first 1973 pressings which lacked this logo.

Production

Recorded primarily at Trident Studios in London, the album was produced by John Anthony, Roy Thomas Baker, and the band themselves. The lacquer cutting for this US edition was handled at Elektra Sound Recorders, identified by the “TD” initials in the runout, referring to mastering engineer Terry Dunavan.