John Lennon (Just Like) Starting Over

I just spun my copy of the US promotion copy 12" radio disc on (Geffen #PRO-A-919) and the actual time is what's indicated on the label (4:17).

It's a longer fade out compared to the LP / 45 version that clocks in at 3:54

That is not the norm because AOR FM radio promo 12" singles are usually cut with the same master source as the 45 or the LP mix. At least that's been my experience with the collection I have.

Looking at Discogs, it looks like there was one, 7" promo released in the U.S. with the album length version, and one, 12" promo released in the U.S. with the extended version.

I only remember the album version fade from the radio, but it has been forty years (!!!) since I've heard top 40 radio play this fresh.

Does anybody know if most stations went with the album length or the extended length? Alternatively, did top 40 play the album length and AOR play the extended length?

@Andrew:

I recall Stereo Rock merging the split ends and overlapping "Somewheeeeerrrreeee" .... with the drums. I've created a sample to show you.

Sample of Starting Over Near the End

AndrewChouffi wrote: To Jody: Yes, it was a crossfade! But my hazy memory seems to recall the drums starting 2 beats later than your sample... wish I could find an old aircheck! Andy

Well it was from memory.....lol. However, I do recall an overlap. I wonder if it was done only because their record was damaged at TM.