Label Guide: Top Rank

Top Rank (International) was the primary record label for Rank Records Ltd., a subsidiary of British entertainment conglomerate Rank Organisation. Top Rank began its life early in 1959 and was operating in several markets, including the UK, France, Germany, Scandinavia, Japan and the United States. There was also a related Jazz label, named Jaro Records (or Jaro International).

Even though Top Rank lasted only for about two years, its output of albums was relatively large. In 1961, Top Rank was taken over by EMI, and in April 1962 they closed the label for good and replaced it with Stateside Records.