How did RR become the leader in historic manuscripts and autographs?
Recently, Tom Hoepf ofNew England Antiques Journalsat down with RR Auction EVP Bobby Livingston, to discuss the evolution of the auction house. Here’s what he had to say.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]From a small mail-order catalog business started in Boston in 1976 to a multimillion-dollar international online auction house, RR Auction has grown to dominate categories of collectible memorabilia across many genres. Livingston explained the rather amusing “first come, first served” method of acquiring our offered historic manuscripts and autographs, wherein the catalog recipients would call in to purchase the items. He talked about how annoying it was for the West Coast buyers because the New Englanders received the catalogs a couple days earlier and would be able to purchase items before them.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”9072″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row content_placement=”middle”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_empty_space height=”50px”][vc_single_image image=”8085″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]Once RR moved from catalog sales to auctions, the 1980s were still pre-internet, so all bidding was done by phone-in buyers, who would often “filibuster” to stay on the phone until the midnight bidding deadline. Thankfully the advent of the digital age in the 1990s allowed bidders and RR employees alike the ability to get more sleep, as auctions went online. The company also began hosting live auctions for special items and collections, likeJFKorBonnieandClydememorabilia.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row content_placement=”middle”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_empty_space height=”50px”][vc_column_text]Livingston explained to NEAJ readers how RR grew from being the known source for historic manuscripts and autographs into other categories like Space exploration collectibles and Olympics memorabilia, sheerly due to our current collectors offering their own items in those genres. It grew organically from the needs of our clients, into extremely successful categories.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”8097″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]RR thanks NEAJ for the profile piece on our company.Read Hoepf’s entire article here.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Above: Buzz Aldrin’s Apollo 11 lunar surface-flown Double Star Chart. Sold by RR Auction for $50,618.
Spectacular Space auction results –
and a great testimonial
RR Auction’s April Space auction was another smashing success, as important space exploration artifacts were obtained by passionate collectors. More than 20 items achieved a hammer price over $10,000, eight over $20k, and the top lot earning nearly six figures. Here are the auction results.
The top lot was a superb archive of 26 items by Dr. Wernher von Braun related to the iconic ‘Man Will Conquer Space Soon!’ series, which appeared in Collier’s Magazine between 1952 and 1954, which achieved a final sales price of $98,644.
A unique collection of 109 unflown Space Shuttle Robbins medallions – 102 sterling silver medals and 7 rare pre-production bronze examples – went for $49,000. The top results are further listed below.
‘I felt like family’
RR Auction is always so pleased to work with NASA engineer and collectSPACE member Daniel Schaiewitz; we guess the feeling is mutual, because he and wife Nilda were kind enough to drive over to see us in New Hampshire so Dan could film this incredible testimonial video:
With nearly two dozen items in this auction, Dan had a great showing in our most recent auction. His top sold artifact in April was a spiral-bound training cuff checklist personally worn and used by Apollo 15 LMP Jim Irwin and Schaiewitz, which sold for $4,577.
A6L spacesuit glove, made for Neil Armstrong. Sold by RR Auction for $20,246.
Rare vintage 1:40 scale model of an Apollo Command Service Module and Lunar Module. Sold by RR Auction for $16,114.
Large Sericho pallasite meteorite (Kenya) slice from Aerolite Meteorites. Sold by RR Auction for $10,412.
Ready to join the crew? We’re currently acquiring for our next Space auction, slated for October. Consignments are requested to be in-house by July 17. Please contact us for your free appraisal.
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”9907″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_column_text]“I was straight-up obsessed with Led Zeppelin and dragged my parents to see ‘The Song Remains the Same.’ I had a hard-rock obsession that never wavered. I had tickets in 1979 or ‘80 to see them; then Bonham died and I never got to go. That killed me.”
“I got autographs from Page and Plant for a good solid 20 years, 1985-2006, up through the reunion tour. They don’t sign anymore.”[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”9908″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Few rock bands will rise to the pinnacle of superstar status quite like Led Zeppelin. From 1968 to the 1980 death of drummer John Bonham, and then beyond, legendary guitarist Jimmy Page, soaring vocalist and lyricist Robert Plant, and peerless bass and keyboard man John Paul Jones, the band produced some of the most timeless rock anthems and ballads in music history.
Led Zeppelin drew from a wide variety of influences – blues, psychedelia, folk, even medieval – with their signature hard-driving guitar rock sound paving the way for heavy metal.
Indisputably one of the most successful and innovative rock bands in history, Led Zeppelin’s nine studio albums all hit the Top 10 of the Billboardalbum chart, with six reaching No. 1. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1995; the museum’s biography of the band states that they were “as influential” during the 1970s as the Beatles were during the 1960s.
“Led Zeppelin” album signed on the front cover in blue felt tip by Jimmy Page, Robert Plant and John Paul Jones. The record is included.
This epic album hit No. 10 on the Billboard charts and earned multiplatinum status eight times over, and featured hits “Good Times Bad Times,” “Dazed and Confused” and “Communication Breakdown.” [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]
Lot 7020: Their pivotal third album
Led Zeppelin III album signed on the front cover in blue felt tip by Robert Plant and John Paul Jones. The album retains its rotating volvelle insert. In fine condition. The record is not included.
Considered by many as a stylistic turning point in their career, Led Zeppelin’s third album showed another side of the hard-rocking band. Moving from their blues-rock foundations, they showcased their folk and acoustic chops, garnering new prog-rock fans in the process, with signature songs like “Immigrant Song,” “Since I’ve Been Loving You” and “Celebration Day.” [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”9915″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”9916″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
‘Oh,by the way, which one’s Pink?’ – lyrics from “Have a Cigar,” by Pink Floyd
Psychedelic prog rockers Pink Floyd presented a challenge to autograph enthusiasts. With the coming and going of the band members, along with sometimes-contentious in-fighting, it could be difficult to get a fully signed item.
“The chase started in the 1980s, when I got Waters; then Gilmour on his solo tour; then more on the reunion tour (sans Water).” John notes, “Roger Waters lived in NYC on and off; he was very accessible. He was generally a friendly person anyway.”
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”9890″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]“My complete-signed Pink Floyd is a big deal because David Gilmour is the most rare signature, having been so reclusive and not really signing since the 90s (next rare would be the late Richard Wright).”
It wasn’t an easy road for autograph collectors of the time. “One time when Gilmour and Waters were fighting, Waters ripped up an autograph that Gilmour had already signed for a buddy of mine.”
Brennan adds, “It’s been almost my whole career getting Pink Floyd completed, because there was no real reunion with all of them. It was just hardcore collecting, one by one, in all different spots.”[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”9892″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”9893″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Shine on you crazy diamond
Here are the jewels of our Pink Floyd offerings in this John Brennan Collection auction:[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]
Lot 7010: Fully signed copy of ‘Animals’
“Animals” album signed on the front cover in pink paint pen by Roger Waters, and in blue felt tip by Richard Wright, David Gilmour and Nick Mason. The record is included.
Loosely based on George Orwell’s political fable Animal Farm, Pink Floyd’s tenth studio album, “Animals,” was released in early 1977 to positive, if not inconsistent, reviews, with many a critic both applauding and critiquing the album’s conceptual framework and shift in musical style.
A highly displayable and uncommon Pink Floyd album signed by all four musicians.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]
Lot 7013: See you on the dark side …
“The Dark Side of the Moon” album signed on the front cover in silver ink by Roger Waters and Nick Mason. The record is included.
A true signature album for Pink Floyd, it is one of the best-selling albums of all time, remaining on the Billboard charts an astonishing 741 weeks, from 1973 to 1988. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”9895″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”9896″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Lot 7011: Careful with that axe, Eugene
Gorgeous Trinity River Telecaster-style electric guitar with a handsome sunburst finish, prominently signed on the body in felt tip by legendary Pink Floyd founder Roger Waters. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”9898″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Above: Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain, left, with autograph collector John Brennan.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]
“I followed them like a missile launcher. I just knew.” – John Brennan
Brennan first met Nirvana in January 1992, in the lobby of NBC when they were at the Thursday music rehearsal for a “Saturday Night Live” performance. He wasn’t familiar with the soon-to-be superstars, but he had a feeling about them.
After that first meeting, Brennan followed them everywhere, before they were famous: “I just knew.”
He met them a total of 8-12 times, as they became the pioneers of the Seattle grunge sound. The ride was short, but powerful. He followed Nirvana all of 1992 and 1993. “In just under two years, it was all over.”
Drummer Dave Grohl can be seen wearing a “Secret Sounds” t-shirt on the album cover for “Muddy Banks of Wishkah,” which Brennan gave him.
“Dave was always difficult to deal with; Kurt was the easy one.” [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”9869″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”9879″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”9877″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]
Glimpses of Nirvana
Our top two elite Nirvana items in the inaugural John Brennan auction are:[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”9876″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]
Lot 7410: Oversized, fully signed band photo
Extraordinary color glossy 14 x 11 photo of Nirvana decked out in their classic grunge fashion, signed in blue felt tip by iconic frontman Kurt Cobain, “Kurt”; bassist Krist Novoselic, “Krist”; and drummer Dave Grohl, “If there’s one thing that would put me on the brink of total insanity, it would definitely be signing autographs all [expletive] day long. David.”
An amazing fully-signed oversized photo of the legendary 90s group, made even more desirable by Grohl’s irreverent and ironic commentary on signing autographs.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]
Lot 7411: ‘In Utero’ signed CD booklet
In Utero CD booklet signed on the front cover in blue felt tip by legendary singer-guitarist Kurt Cobain, “Kurt”; bassist Krist Novoselic, “Krist”; and drummer Dave Grohl, “David.”
Nirvana’s third and final studio album, “In Utero” entered the Billboard 200 chart at No. 1 and received critical acclaim as a drastic departure from “Nevermind.” A fantastic fully signed Nirvana piece.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”9880″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”9882″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]John Brennan had many interactions with the members of the Rolling Stones over his years of autograph collecting, especially in New York City. Trying to keep the same hours as the hard-working – and sometimes hard-living – rock n’ roll band proved challenging sometimes. John recalls, “They’d be in the studio until dawn. We’d be waiting outside.”
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]One favorite story of John’s happened in 1986, during the “Dirty Work” album era. It was on 48th St., NYC; the Stones were recording in the studio and Mick Jagger came out.
“We saw him frequently so he wasn’t uptight around us. He tried but couldn’t hail a cab, so we offered him a ride home in my white IROC Camaro. I drove; he sat in the front seat.” Brennan also revealed his diehard devotion: “I once waited outside Mick’s apartment for 18 hours in 1984.”
The steadfast autograph seeker also “met Keith at least 150 times,” and possesses dozens of candid pictures as mementos.
Some of John’s favorite Rolling Stones auction items include:
Lot 7001: Fully signed Strat
Fantastic dark red-bodied Fender Squier Stratocaster electric guitar, signed by Mick Jagger, Ronnie Wood, Mick Taylor, Charlie Watts, Keith Richards and Bill Wyman. A rather unusual example as it boasts the autographs of both Mick Taylor and his replacement, Ronnie Wood.
Lot 7002: Album signed by band and session musicians
“Exile on Main St.” album, signed by Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Bill Wyman, Charlie Watts and Mick Taylor; also signed on the back cover by Billy Preston, Bobby Keys and Dr. John.
Cherry sunburst finish Yamaha Pacifica Deluxe Tele 302S electric guitar, signed “Keith Richards, ’97.” A particularly attractive guitar boasting a large, bold signature from the legendary Stones guitarist.
Above: Fender Squier Stratocaster electric guitar, signed by BB King. Part of the John Brennan Collection, offered by RR Auction.
Why settle for a paper autograph, when you can have a signed Strat?
“I carried guitars with me for signing – either in a car or on my back on the train to the city. No concert signing for those; [autographed guitars] were all obtained waiting on the street. Some took years of lugging around – the [guitar greats Strat] one, the Rolling Stones one. The Stones-by-6 was all on the street in different instances. None of the [band members] were partial to who signed it [before them]; they did not care at the time, so I was able to get both Taylor and Wood on one.”
– autograph collector John Brennan
Our inaugural auction from The John Brennan Collection (May 10-17) will feature the lifelong autograph collector’s incredible selection of signed items from the legends of music history. In addition to autographs, photographs and posters, he’s also sharing a cache of autographed guitars. Here are six of our favorites:
Stratocaster autographed by Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, BB King, Buddy Guy, and Bo Diddley.
Lot 7076: Five guitar greats on one Strat
Immensely desirable red-bodied Fender Squier Stratocaster electric guitar, signed on the body in black felt tip by five guitar virtuosos – Jeff Beck, B. B. King, Buddy Guy, Eric Clapton and Bo Diddley. An incredible union of some of history’s most influential guitarists.
Stratocaster autographed by the Rolling Stones’ Mick Jagger, Ron Wood, Mick Taylor, Charlie Watts, Keith Richards and Bill Wyman.
Lot 7001: Rolling Stones signed Fender Squier Stratocaster electric guitar
Signed on the body in black felt tip by Mick Jagger, Ronnie Wood, Mick Taylor, and Charlie Watts, and on the pickguard by Keith Richards and Bill Wyman. A fantastic example of a fully-signed Stones electric guitar, being a rather unusual example as it boasts the autographs of both Mick Taylor and his replacement, Ronnie Wood.
Franciscan natural-finish acoustic guitar, autographed by Neil Young, Stephen Stills, Richie Furay and Jim Messina. Offered in The John Brennan Collection by RR Auction.
Lot 7069: Buffalo Springfield band members signed acoustic
Handsome Franciscan natural-finish acoustic guitar, prominently signed on the body in felt tip by Neil Young, Stephen Stills and Richie Furay, and on the pickguard by Jim Messina. “For What It’s Worth” (the group’s timeless protest anthem), this is a great collection of signatures.
Fender Squier Stratocaster electric guitar, signed on the body in black felt tip by Eric Clapton. Part of the John Brennan Collection offered by RR Auction.
Lot 7075: Eric Clapton signed Strat
Fantastic cream-bodied Fender Squier Stratocaster electric guitar, signed on the body in black felt tip by Eric Clapton. An especially desirable example as it is signed on the body, rather than a more common pickguard autograph – a cream-colored guitar autographed by Cream guitarist Clapton.
Stratocaster autographed by the Yardbirds’ Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, and Jimmy Page.
Lot 7119: Yardbirds greats autographing one guitar
Beautiful red-bodied Affinity series Fender Squier Stratocaster electric guitar, signed on the white pickguard in blue felt tip by Jimmy Page, and on the body in black felt tip by Eric Clapton and Jeff Beck. A rare assemblage of these three Yardbirds guitarists, all of whom went on to have prolific and profoundly influential careers after leaving the group.
Carlo Robelli acoustic guitar with red sunburst finish, signed by Paul McCartney. Part of the John Brennan Collection, offered by RR Auction.
Lot 7058: Paul McCartney signed Carlo Robelli acoustic guitar
With a red sunburst finish, signed nicely on the body in black felt tip by McCartney. A beautiful display piece signed by one of rock’s greatest songwriters, best known for his acoustic work on Beatles tracks like “Yesterday” and “Blackbird.”
JFK’s personal ‘victory map’ of Cuba dominates with $138k achieved
Our April Fine Autographs and Artifacts auction, with Sci-Fi feature, eclipsed expectations. The top item was President John F. Kennedy’s personal “victory map” of Cuba(banner image) used during the Cuban Missile Crisis. The historic artifact achieved a price of $138,798 (all prices shown include Buyer’s Premium).
Revolutionary War-dated letter, signed by George Washington. Sold by RR Auction for $36,546.
It was not the only US president-related item to make the Top 10 auction results; two George Washington artifacts ranked – a signed letter which garnered $36,546, and his signature which yielded $8,083. Founding Fathers were strongly represented, with a Thomas Jefferson ALS that sold for $28,843, a Benjamin Franklin ALS which earned $14,822, and a DS of Alexander Hamilton, which sold for $9,782. Items representing Abraham Lincoln, John Hancock, James Garfield and FDR also did well.
Composition written by Giuseppe Verdi. Sold by RR Auction for $10,003.
Prescient articles, drawings show future of space exploration
RR Auction’s weeklong Space auction (through April 19) features a historic, museum-worthy archive that was ahead of its time in predicting man’s trajectory into space exploration.
This superb lot contains 26 items by Dr. Wernher von Braun related to the iconic “Man Will Conquer Space Soon!” series, which appeared in Collier’s Magazine between 1952 and 1954. The astounding archive is comprised of 17 drawings and schematics, two orbital diagrams, four calculations and graph plots, and three autograph letters. All relate to four of the Collier’s articles: Crossing the Last Frontier; Man on the Moon: The Journey; Man on the Moon: The Exploration; and Baby Space Station. The magazines are also included.
Von Braun prepared the original drawings in this archive as reference materials for magazine artists Chesley Bonestell, Fred Freeman, and Rolf Klep, and most are evident as the direct inspiration for the illustrations that grace the pages of Collier’s in the “Man Will Conquer Space Soon!” series. Von Braun’s skillful drawings are filled with engineering detail to provide the illustrators with scientifically accurate renderings of the spaceships of the future.
In its introduction to the series, Collier’s makes clear: “What you will read here is not science fiction.” Von Braun’s vision was not only fantastic, but scientifically viable; his copious scientific notes and calculations are proof.
Illustration done by Dr. Wernher von Braun as a reference source for a Collier’s Magazine series, “Man Will Conquer Space Soon!” circa 1952-1954. Offered as an archive by RR Auction.
Illustration done by Dr. Wernher von Braun as a reference source for a Collier’s Magazine series, “Man Will Conquer Space Soon!” circa 1952-1954. Offered as an archive by RR Auction.
Autograph letter signed (pg. 2), by Dr. Wernher von Braun. Offered as part of an archive by RR Auction.
Series drew widespread attention to von Braun’s vision
The Collier’s series drew widespread attention to von Braun’s vision of manned spaceflight. After the success of the first issue, he appeared on TV and radio shows around the nation to discuss the subject. He was soon recruited by Walt Disney, and served as a technical advisor for three TV films about space exploration between 1955 and 1957. These broadcasts brought the idea of the space program into American living rooms nationwide.
For the first time, Americans had a vision of space travel not out of Buck Rogers, but grounded in scientific reality as envisioned by the central figure of the coming Space Age.
Great albums plus great musicians equals collecting gold
When he bought his first album in 1975 – “Alive!” by KISS – a pre-teen John Brennan would never have guessed a lifelong passion was being born. Collecting albums and autographs became his focused and beloved hobby for more than four decades.
Our inaugural auction from The John Brennan Collection (May 10-17) will feature an incredible selection of autographed albums from the legends of music history. Here are six of our favorites:
Album flat, Beatles “Abbey Road.” Signed by George Harrison, Paul McCartney, RIngo Starr. Offered by RR Auction.
Lot 7054: Beatles’ “Abbey Road,” signed by Paul, George and Ringo
Few would argue that the photograph on the cover of “Abbey Road” is one of the most iconic images ever captured of the Beatles. The famous four are seen crossing the named street – Lennon in the lead in his crisp white suit, Starr looking dapper in a dark one immediately behind him; McCartney follows, barefoot, with Harrison bringing up the rear in casual denim.
This album flat features the signatures of Paul, Ringo and the elusive George. Collector Brennan discusses the travails of getting Harrison’s autograph:
Reflecting solemnly on Harrison’s reluctance to sign following John Lennon’s 1980 murder at the hands of one-time autograph seeker Mark David Chapman, Brennan remembers “I met him around the time of his solo album (Cloud Nine) and a few times afterwards. He wasn’t around much. [George] wasn’t against signing, per se; he was against getting killed.” Of Harrison, John says, “He was extremely reclusive. I saw him at Heathrow airport in 1988, and near a HandMade Films set; I saw him in NYC at the studio with Clapton in the late 1980s.” And chillingly, when Brennan asked for his autograph, Harrison remarked, “Sure… As long as you’re not going to kill me.”
“The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan” album, signed by Bob Dylan. Offered by RR Auction.
Lot 7085: “The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan” album, signed by the artist
This album gave us some of Dylan’s most timeless classics, and earned him a spot in the Library of Congress’ National Recording Registry of the top 50 culturally, historically or aesthetically significant works.
Dylan was also a tough autograph to obtain, Brennan said. He was shocked when the legendary singer-songwriter not only deigned to have a photo with the young collector, but especially so when Dylan returned the gesture and put his arm around John:
Brennan recalls the difficulty of obtaining Dylan, “He’s tough to get now; all of my autographs and photos were done many years ago. He has a better quality signature now, but it’s more difficult to get.” In reference to the candid photos of Brennan with Dylan, “The photos of us together are from 1987; he was appearing at a Tribute to George Gershwin at Brooklyn Academy of Music. The album offered in this inaugural auction was signed many years later.”
Pink Floyd “Animals” album, signed by Roger Waters, David Gilmour, Nick Mason and Richard Wright. Offered by RR Auction.
Lot 7010: Pink Floyd’s “Animals” album, signed by the entire band
Loosely based on Orwellian cautionary tale “Animal Farm,” this Pink Floyd album is signed by Roger Waters, David Gilmour, Nick Mason and Richard Wright – quite a feat, according to Brennan:
“The chase started in the 1980s, when I got Waters; then Gilmour on his solo tour; then more on the reunion tour (sans Waters). Brennan noted, “Roger Waters lived in NYC on and off; he was very accessible. He was generally a friendly person anyway.” “My complete-signed Pink Floyd is a big deal because David Gilmour is the most rare signature, having been so reclusive and not really signing since the 90s (next rare would be the late Richard Wright).” In-band fights were always tough on the autograph seeker looking to complete band signatures. “One time when Gilmour and Waters were fighting, Waters ripped up an autograph that Gilmour had already signed for a buddy of mine.” Brennan noted wistfully, “It’s been almost my whole career getting Pink Floyd completed, because there was no real reunion with all of them. It was just hardcore collecting, one by one, in all different spots.”
Eagles “Hotel California” album, signed by Don Henley, Glenn Frey, Joe Walsh, Don Felder and J.D. Souther. Offered by RR Auction.Eagles “Hotel California” album, signed by Don Henley, Glenn Frey, Joe Walsh, Don Felder and J.D. Souther. Offered by RR Auction.
Lot 7155: The Eagles’ “Hotel California” album, fully signed
On a dark desert highway… This first-pressing of the iconic “Hotel California” album includes the record, and is signed by Don Henley, Glenn Frey, Joe Walsh, Don Felder and J.D. Souther.
Another difficult band to get a fully signed item from, the sometimes-contentious hitmakers broke up and famously answered the query of a possible reunion with “when hell freezes over.” In a cheeky nod to their testy declaration, they named their eventual reunion “The Hell Freezes Over Tour.” Brennan struggled for years to get all of them to sign this pivotal album.
Autographed Prince promo album (record included), “Do Me, Baby / Private Joy.” Offered by RR Auction.Autograph collector John Brennan, left, gets Prince to sign an album, in the 1980s.
Lot 7322: Prince promo album (record included), “Do Me, Baby / Private Joy,” signed by the artist
As he shot like a rocket to success, Prince became more elusive and protected by his inner circle. But he was always generous and friendly, according to countless stories from Prince insiders and fans lucky enough to meet him.
Brennan was able to get close to the multi-instrumentalist and talented singer-songwriter early on, and came away with not only an autographed album, but a provenance photograph that boasts a surprising source:
Brennan recalled of Prince’s untouchability, “There was a very small window [of accessibility] after ‘Purple Rain.’ But one night, he was in New York, coming back to the hotel after a late night of clubbing. He got out of a car at his hotel, no bodyguards; just like a normal person. This photo of Prince and me, while he was signing my ‘Purple Rain’ album, was taken by legendary photographer Vinnie Zuffante [paparazzo famous for getting punched by Sean Penn].” John notes: “Prince was so sought-after. Getting this autograph was like the prom queen giving you a kiss; you don’t forget a special moment like that. It’s like your wedding day; it’s unforgettable.”
Autographed Amy Winehouse “Back to Black” album. Offered by RR Auction.
Lot 7467: Amy Winehouse, “Back to Black,” with record, signed by the artist
In the annals of heartbreaking female artists, the story of Amy Winehouse ranks right up there. A talented singer-songwriter with a unique bluesy, retro style and singular image, the young Winehouse was on her way up with “Back to Black.” But her career was cut tragically short by her personal demons and destructive choices.
Brennan managed to get tipped off to a rare Winehouse sighting in New York City, and scored an autograph, a posed photograph and even one from the paparazzo that had been following her:
Brennan recalled of an elusive sighting of Winehouse in the city, “She was walking around the city with Blake [Fielder-Civil]. Anything Amy-in-NY is pretty scarce, because I knew President Bush wasn’t letting people in after they got into trouble [with drugs or the law]. Amy and Pete Doherty got banned from coming to the US eventually. I found out from one of my connections that she was here, and dropped everything to get over there. I got tipped off by a camera guy; you gotta network. The photos of us were taken by paps down the block that had been following her all day. This was still early in her career and her performances were hot and explosive.”
