The Smiths – How Soon Is Now? (Vinyl 12" 45 RPM Maxi-Single, 1984, Sire 0-20284, Specialty Records Pressing)

Why This Record Matters
“How Soon Is Now?” is built around Johnny Marr’s distinctive tremolo-treated guitar figure, with Morrissey’s vocal and lyrics making it one of The Smiths’ most recognizable recordings. Produced by John Porter, the song became an important part of the band’s mid-1980s catalog and this U.S. release also appeared on the American 12-inch singles chart. This maxi-single pairs the 6:43 long version with “Girl Afraid” and a 3:53 alternate U.S. edit that differs from the UK 7-inch mix.

Collector Note
This is the 1984 U.S. Sire 0-20284 / 9 20284-0 A three-track 12" 45 RPM maxi-single pressed by Specialty Records Corporation. The supplied runouts carry the SRC pressing identifier and K Disc mastering information, with PB credited for the lacquer cut. This label variation has “SIRE ®” at the upper right of the Sire logo and Warner Bros. marketing credit and street address in the perimeter text.

Availability
Single copy available—once it's gone, it's gone.

Condition & Details
Media: VG+
Sleeve: VG

Technical Details
Format: Vinyl, 12", 45 RPM, Maxi-Single
Label: Sire – 0-20284, 9 20284-0 A
Country: US
Released: 1984
Genre: Rock
Style: Indie Rock, Jangle Pop

Matrix / Runout
Side A: 0 20284 A RE1 SR1 kdisc PB 1-1 [SRC logo]
Side B: 0 20284 B RE1 SR1 PB 1-1 [SRC logo]

Tracklist
Side A
A How Soon Is Now? (Long Version) – 6:43

Side B
B1 Girl Afraid – 2:46
B2 How Soon Is Now? (Edit) – 3:53

Shipping & Handling
Ultrasonically cleaned using a Degritter Mark II prior to shipping.
Stored in protective inner and outer sleeves.
Shipped with vinyl protection and cardboard reinforcement.
Packed securely for safe delivery.

About Maple City Music
Maple City Music is a veteran-owned record store in Vermont focused on honest grading, fair pricing, and high-quality media. Every item is carefully inspected, cleaned, and prepared so it arrives exactly as described.