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Still on Wax: Spotlighting Vinyl Treasures Still Awaiting CD Release
While Petula's catalogue has been lovingly curated across decades, a surprising number of vinyl-era gems remain absent from official CD or digital release. This list sets aside
previously unreleased studio recordings, demos and live tracks, instead,
this spotlight feature focuses on already commercially issued tracks
on vinyl that, despite fan interest, have yet to make the leap from turntable to digital shelf.
Album Highlights:
1973: Petula (Disques AZ)
Three tracks from this elusive French LP remain CD holdouts: "Accordons Nos
Violons," "Un Carte D'Amitie," and "Dans La
Ville."
1973: Opryland USA (Timex)
From this rare TV special soundtrack, Petula appears on four tracks:
"Sing" (with Tennessee Ernie Ford), "I Can See Clearly
Now," "Lazy Afternoon," and "I Don’t Know How to Love
Him."
1984: Lollipops and Fish Fingers (MFP)
A whimsical charity album for the NSPCC featuring Petula on three charming tracks:
"Blue Jeans," "Feeding the Hens," and "Bathtime
Calypso" (with Gareth Hunt).
Single Mixes & Rarities:
1972:
"Bleu Blanc Rouge" (Disques AZ)
An alternate take issued on the purple engraved label, distinct from the red-label album version.
1973: "Thank You My Lord" (Disques AZ)
Another alternate take, also released on the purple engraved label.
1973:
"Taking It On" (Polydor)
A duet with Sacha Distel, released as the B-side to
"(Let the Love Light in Your Eyes) Lead Me On."
1975: "Hasta Manana" (Disques AZ)
A standalone single whose master tape is missing.
1978: "Put a Little Sunshine in Your Life" (CBS)
Originally recorded as a jingle for the Chrysler Sunbeam, this track faced broadcast bans due to its commercial
origins so this alternate version with "Sunshine" replacing the
word "Sunbeam" was issued but remains unreleased on CD
or on digital.
1978:
"(Life Is) Just a Dance With Time" (CBS)
The UK single issue stands apart with a completely different
vocal take and mix (this almost sounds like a guide vocal),
distinct from all other international versions of the track, a
version that has never been released on CD.
1985: "Mr. Orwell" (PRT)
Recorded in London at Trident Studios, the English-language version of this single, released in February 1985, has yet to appear on CD.
1988:
"Got It" (CNR)
An alternate single mix released in the Netherlands, differing from the album version.
So where does that leave us?
By our count, the above list represents 18 commercially released recordings, spanning singles, alternate takes, album tracks, and a soundtrack appearance, that remain unavailable on CD or digital platforms. Each one is a missing piece in Petula's rich musical legacy, and while they represent only a small handful within her extensive catalogue, their absence is keenly felt by collectors and fans alike.
Corrections and additions are always welcome, this list is a living document, shaped by the collective memory and sharp ears of fans and collectors. If you have a lead on a track
that you believe we've missed, we'd love to hear from you.
Questions?
Drop us an email: info@petula-archives.co.uk
