November of 2008 will mark the 40th anniversary of the release of The Beatles album known as the “White Album.” As any good fan knows, however, this is not actually the title of the album. This landmark work was titled simply “The Beatles.” But, it’s white, raised title on an equally stark white background earned it its nickname.

When the White Album is purchased today, it’s not possible to receive it with the same raised lettering that appeared on the original album. When it was released on eight track, cassette and then CDs, the flat nature of the packaging did not lend itself to the raised title. The title often appears on covers now in black lettering or a light gray.

The White Album was the only double album that was ever released by The Beatles. Since its release in 1968 it has been the best selling albums by The Beatles. As a matter of fact, it’s one of the best selling albums ever. It currently ranks 9th out of all albums sold in the United States.

Several classic Beatle songs came from the White Album. Among these are Birthday, Helter Skelter, Blackbird and Revolution 1. Some of the more obscure songs, such as Why Don't We Do It in the Road? and Honey Pie are also worth listening to for their innovative sound. Though there are a few psychedelic rock numbers included, the album was in many ways a departure from the psychedelic sound that had gripped the nation after Sgt. Pepper’s was released the year before. It also features some experimental music forms, such as Revolution 9’s sound effects.

The songs included in the White Album are:

Disc 1
Back in the U.S.S.R.
Dear Prudence
Glass Onion
Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da
Wild Honey Pie
Continuing Story of Bungalow Bill
While My Guitar Gently Weeps
Happiness Is a Warm Gun
Martha My Dear
I'm So Tired
Blackbird
Piggies
Rocky Raccoon
Don't Pass Me By
Why Don't We Do It in the Road?
I Will
Julia

Disc 2
Birthday
Yer Blues
Mother Nature's Son
Everybody's Got Something to Hide Except Me And My Monkey
Sexy Sadie
Helter Skelter
Long, Long, Long
Revolution 1
Honey Pie
Savoy Truffle
Cry Baby Cry
Revolution 9
Good Night

The White Album remains one of the most popular albums online, in music stores, on land and by sea. But, to get the raised lettering and true white-on-white cover, you have to get the LP.