Janis Joplin Pearl 1971 Columbia KC 30322 Vinyl LP — Original U.S. Pressing

Original 1971 U.S. pressing of Janis Joplin’s landmark album Pearl, issued by Columbia Records (KC 30322). Released posthumously just months after her passing, Pearl captures Joplin at her most powerful, backed by the Full Tilt Boogie Band and produced by Paul A. Rothchild. Includes enduring classics Me and Bobby McGee, Cry Baby, Move Over, and Mercedes Benz.

This pressing features the red Columbia “COLUMBIA” 360 Sound labels, original maroon bordered jacket, and matching inner sleeve. Recorded in 1970, Pearl reached No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and remains a defining work of early ’70s rock and blues. A cornerstone piece for collectors and fans of authentic first-issue pressings.

Condition

Vinyl shows moderate surface wear and scattered scuffs visible under strong light, with light sleeve friction and a few more pronounced marks (see photos). Audio quality may include background noise in quieter passages but no major gouges observed. Labels remain bright and legible.
Jacket displays notable edge and corner wear, ring wear, and scuffing, especially along the borders, yet the spine is intact and readable. Inner sleeve shows age toning consistent with period.
Graded Good (G) for jacket and Good to Very Good (G+/VG-) for vinyl.

Details

• Label: Columbia Records, KC 30322
• Year: 1971
• Format: 12" LP, Stereo
• Country: U.S.A.
• Tracks include Move Over, Cry Baby, Me and Bobby McGee, and Mercedes Benz
• Original Columbia pressing; likely first-issue based on matrix and label style

Dimensions

Standard 12-inch vinyl LP
Weight: approximately 8 oz

An authentic early Columbia pressing of Janis Joplin’s final studio album — Pearl — a posthumous masterpiece and a fixture of classic rock history. Despite visible wear, this copy presents well for its age and remains a worthy addition for collectors seeking an original 1971 issue.