ROSA Catalogue Number

OMMA-0069

Artist

The Marquees (featuring Marvin Gaye)

Title

“Hey Little School Girl / Wyatt Earp”

Release Details

Issued in 1957 as a 7-inch single by Okeh Records (catalogue number 4-7096). Pressed in the United States and distributed as a radio promotional release within the Columbia/Okeh label system.

Edition & Variant Identification

First promotional pressing, issued as a white-label radio promo designated “Special Record – Not For Sale,” corresponding to the initial release campaign.

Physical Description

7-inch vinyl single on black vinyl. The labels are white promotional Okeh labels bearing “Special Record – Not For Sale” designation, printed in standard mid-century Columbia-family layout.

Factory-Origin Characteristics

No factory-origin anomalies are observed on the present copy.

Condition Report

The present copy is in Excellent condition. The vinyl surface retains strong original gloss, with no visible evidence of playwear or handling. Labels show visible but minor storage wear but no spindle wear or marking.

Provenance

Provenance: Discogs seller “Desertshorerecords”; subsequently acquired by the Ransom Origins of Sound Archive, 29 November 2025.

Market Context & Historical Notes

Issued in November 1957 under the supervision of Bo Diddley, “Hey Little School Girl / Wyatt Earp” represents the earliest documented commercial recording featuring Marvin Gaye, then performing as a member of the Washington, D.C. vocal group The Marquees. The release emerged from the late-1950s doo-wop and rhythm-and-blues environment that preceded the formal establishment of Motown’s artist development system. The single is widely regarded as Gaye’s first appearance on a commercially issued record and a primary document of his pre-Motown career. Surviving promotional copies are comparatively scarce, reflecting limited distribution and low initial commercial impact, and well-preserved examples are infrequently encountered in high-grade condition.

Canonical Status in ROSA

This release is recognized by the Ransom Origins of Sound Archive as the artist’s canonical debut.

References and Source Documentation

Discogs, The Marquees – Hey Little School Girl / Wyatt Earp (Okeh 4-7096, white-label promo variant). https://www.discogs.com/release/3526298-The-Marquees-Hey-Little-School-Girl-Wyatt-Earp