More ways to confirm a first printing
- No reliable house 'First Edition' statement — use the number line.
Notable points & cautions
- Music-book imprint (guitar/gear, band biographies, the 'All Music Guide' reference series).
- Ownership chain affects catalog continuity but not the number-line rule: originated as the renamed Miller Freeman Books music division (renamed Backbeat c.2001), under CMP -> acquired by Hal Leonard (2006) -> sold to Rowman & Littlefield (Dec 2018) alongside Applause, Amadeus Press, and Limelight Editions.
- Sister music-reference imprints to watch under the same owners: Applause (theatre/cinema), Amadeus Press (classical/opera), Limelight Editions.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Backbeat Books book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. Standard descending number line on copyright page; '1' present indicates first printing. No reliable house 'First Edition' statement — use the number line.
Does Backbeat Books use a number line?
No reliable house 'First Edition' statement — use the number line.
Is a book-club edition a Backbeat Books first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Music-book imprint (guitar/gear, band biographies, the 'All Music Guide' reference series).
What era does this cover?
This covers Backbeat Books (1990s-present). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.
Clearing out a shelf that includes Backbeat Books books? I take books as a free donation and make sure collectible copies are identified, not discarded: free pickup in the Albuquerque metro (scheduled by route), the 24/7 drop box at 5445 Edith Blvd NE, or donor-paid mail-in from anywhere in the US. Call or text 505-250-3804.