Just a couple of highlights from this week in music history!
FEB 13:
FEB 19:
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Here are some of our more popular collector guides and articles. Whether you collect record awards, autographed memorabilia, posters, handbills, ephemera or other collectibles, you'll find useful information here (click image to view each article):
Just a couple of highlights from this week in music history!
JAN 30: Happy birthday to Phil Collins, born today in 1951! The renowned British musician gained fame as the drummer and later lead vocalist for the progressive rock band Genesis. His solo career soared with iconic hits such as "In the Air Tonight" and "Against All Odds," cementing his status as a music legend. Beyond his musical endeavors, Collins has ventured into acting, philanthropy, and authorship, leaving an indelible mark on the entertainment industry with his talent and versatility. Who had more Top 40 U.S. hits during the 1980s than Phil Collins? No one.
FEB 11: Happy birthday to Sheryl Crow, born today in 1962! The singer-songwriter, musician, and actress is known for her soulful voice, catchy melodies, and heartfelt lyrics. Crow's music spans a wide range of genres including rock, pop, folk, and country.
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People ask us all the time which awards have the most value to collectors, and what attributes make them most valuable. It first needs to be said, to mince a popular cliché, that value is in the eye of the beholder or, in this case, collector.
And despite our main article photo depicting rising stacks of gold, collectors cannot depend on any collectible increasing in value. With that disclaimer out of the way, we'll take a stab at some advice given what we have seen in our own extensive number of sales and the marketplace generally, focusing on the last five years of data.
We have definitely seen a marked overall increase in the values of certain RIAA awards over the last five years. However, it is important to note that some important factors are at play.
Some of these factors are what you'd expect, but some may surprise you. Also note that exceptions will always apply. So, while this is truly subjective topic, here's a look at the attributes of RIAA awards which affect values:
Most desired (and of course one must be sure any award is genuine--for more on that see our guides here):
Oldest awards: Simply put and speaking in generalities, oldest is best. 1958-63 RIAA "walnut plaques" (almost impossible to find), followed by 1964-74 "white mattes," continue to fetch impressive amounts. Following those are 1981-85 "floaters" and 1982-85 "strip plates", which both have gained in value the older they get. More modern awards follow these eras of awards. *Not familiar with the award types described? Check out our detailed guide here.
Well-known artists: Unsurprisingly, the current top group (in no particular order) probably includes the Beatles (who remain at the top of the pile pretty consistently), Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix, The Doors, Bob Dylan, Led Zeppelin, Elvis Presley, Genesis, Guns 'N Roses, Nirvana, Michael Jackson, Queen, Prince, Elton John, Buddy Holly, The Who with many other well-known artists also making appearances at times in top sales. Of late, rock, metal and "hair" bands of the 80s and early 90s have been surging in popularity as the age group of their fans have more disposable income and also want to celebrate that heyday of rock.
Genuine Beatles RIAA white matte awards, especially those presented to the group, typically bring the highest values in the collector marketplace.
Recently deceased artists: Morbid as it may be, death sells. Especially as relates to major artists who left us in their prime or who experienced untimely deaths. For example, RIAA awards for artists such as Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, Tom Petty, Nirvana/Kurt Cobain, Tupac Shakur, Amy Winehouse, Prince, have all seen significant bumps in value. Elvis Presley still falls in the category as well (if you can find a genuine award, since they are hard to find).
Well-known, classic songs: Examples of top sales based primarily around the appeal of the song have certainly included "Bohemian Rhapsody", "Candle In The Wind", "Hey Jude" (or pretty much any Beatles classic), "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction", "Magic Carpet Ride", "Born To Be Wild", among many others.
Classic tracks such as Queen's "Bohemian Rhapsody" have broad appeal and garner high prices even when the award is not presented to the artist.
Special Albums: Many of these awards fall into the "exceptions" category but examples of highly desired special albums are the awards created for the Live Aid album, or soundtrack awards for popular films such as Rocky.
Despite being a post-2005 RIAA award, these Live Aid 10x Multi-Platinum Album Awards have sold for high prices.
Special Multi-Platinum Awards: Elaborate Multi-Platinum awards for artists who have sold a large number of units a particular album have brought high values. Examples include awards for Guns N' Roses Appetite For Destruction, Michael Jackson's Thriller, Nirvana's Nevermind, Red Hot Chili Peppers' Californication, several awards for Jay-Z albums, and there are numerous other examples.
Special awards like this early 2000s combo album RIAA 16x Multi-Platinum Album Award for Jay Z have brought high values (even with the autopen/printed autograph as you see here).
Elaborate RIAA Awards like this 18x Multi-Platinum Album version for Guns N' Roses Appetite For Destruction (above) or the 10x Multi-Platinum Album award for AC/DC's Back In Black (below) also have strong appeal with some collectors.
Presented to: The award presentations, ranked by most- to least-desirable seem to rank like this:
Artist-presented awards often bring premium prices. Special features, such as being signed by the recipient like this one autographed by Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath, can also add value.
Condition: This is an important factor, but it is important to know that condition doesn't refer to how new an award looks. Sure, a collector doesn't want broken frame rails, a badly stained matte, or a badly tarnished record disc. But beyond those basics, condition should be thought of as: Is the award appropriately aged? Does it have "good wear" that makes sense for how old it is?
"Good wear" is our term for an award with condition commensurate to its' age. This doesn't mean an award that looks to be in pristine condition is necessarily not genuine. It just means you should look more closely into all the details of it. Carefully analyze the award's construction, aging, RIAA certification dates, provenance (if any information is available, often not the case for older awards), and source (seller) to assess an award.
Exceptions: All this said about condition, age, and the other aspects mentioned in this article, there are many exceptions of awards that for various reasons become desirable for collectors. We'll leave you with one such example: A brand-new, still in its' original shrink-wrap, Elton John award signed by and presented to Sir Elton, which was actually produced in a fairly large number (100, with each numbered as part of a limited edition). These are very desirable and have become hard to find, despite being very new awards.
For more details on RIAA awards, including photo examples of all the eras and details of the awards, see our MusicGoldmine Record Award Guide here.
Also check out our current selection of genuine RIAA Gold and Platinum and other record awards for sale here. We typically have several hundred in stock.
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Important Notice/Disclaimer: While many record awards and music memorabilia items appreciate in value, others fall in value and MusicGoldmine.com makes no claims, express or implied, that any item will appreciate in value at any time in the future. Further, MusicGoldmine.com is not providing investment advice in any of its' content.
]]>Just a couple of highlights from this week in music history!
JAN 19: Happy birthday to Dolly Parton, born today in 1946! The singer, songwriter, actress, author, and philanthropist is one of the most celebrated country music artists and has had a long and successful career spanning several decades.
JAN 26: Born today in 1955, guitarist Eddie Van Halen! The Dutch-American musician, songwriter, and producer is best known as the lead guitarist and co-founder of the rock band Van Halen. Born in the Netherlands, Eddie Van Halen moved to the United States with his family in the early 1960s.
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The RIAA created a special poster to celebrate the launch of this new award. It features photos of all 63 albums that had reached Diamond sales at that point. A rarified group indeed, with classic albums from the literal who's who of pop, rock, rap, and R&B music. This close-up of the poster shows the 63 albums:
All 63 artists were invited and many of the illustrious group showed up, one might even say surprisingly, given the list included such heavyweights as Boston, Boyz II Men, Def Leppard, Guns N Roses, Billy Joel, Elton John, Journey, Led Zeppelin, ZZ Top and many more.
While backstage at the event some artists managed to acquire autographs from their fellow RIAA Diamond Award honorees. Those doing this included ZZ Top's late bassist Dusty Hill, a well-known collector of memorabilia, who got many of the artists present to sign his personal copy of the poster. Of course, ZZ Top themselves were honored with a RIAA Diamond Award for their 1983 Eliminator album.
Check out this three minute video time capsule from that day that shows some of the artists arriving and speaking at the event, including James Hetfield, Billy Joel, Elton John, Kenny G, Jason Newsted, Jimmy Page and John Paul Jones, and Billy Gibbons, Dusty Hill, and Frank Beard of ZZ Top:
MusicGoldmine recently managed to acquire Dusty's personal poster that he got signed by 23 of the artists present that night:
Autographs on the poster, all of which have been certified authentic by Beckett Authentication Services (BAS), include:
Brad Delp (RIP) and Tom Scholz of Boston
Shawn Stockman, Nathan Morris, Wanya Morris and Michael McCary of Boyz II Men
Rick Allen, Phil Collen & Joe Elliott of Def Leppard
Elton John
Jonathan Cain and Neal Schon of Journey
Kenny G
John Paul Jones, Jimmy Page, and Robert Plant of Led Zeppelin
MC Hammer
James Hetfield and Jason Newsted of Metallica
Steven Adler of Guns N Roses.
Some of the artists signed next to the album image on the poster, like this with Jimmy Page and John Paul Jones choosing the spot next to album cover image of their classic release Led Zeppelin IV:
You can see close up photos and details of this ultra rare, one-of-a-kind multi-signed poster, which is now being offered for sale here.
As to the new Diamond Award the RIAA developed to present to the artists, it was designed by renowned crystal designer Peter Wayne Yenawine. Yenawine was a master designer at Steuben Glass who was commissioned by the last five U.S. Presidents to create gifts. The award is topped with a diamond-shaped, 728 caret crystal placed in a faceted sterling silver setting. You can see more photos of this example presented to Bill Wyman of the Rolling Stones for their Hot Rocks album here:
As of the date of this article in 2024, the Beatles is the group that has sold the most albums all time in the U.S. at 183 million, and Garth Brooks the solo artist with the most albums sold, at 162 million. Brooks also holds the record for receiving the most RIAA Diamond Awards at nine, with the Beatles at six.
By 2024 over 100 albums have been certified Diamond by the RIAA, but it certainly would have been fascinating to have been there that night in 1999 when the first 63 were introduced, with all the buzz and excitement that brought much of music's royalty out to celebrate.
MusicGoldmine.com has hundreds of RIAA and other record awards for sale. See our current selection of awards here.
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]]>Just a couple of highlights from this week in music history!
JAN 9: Happy birthday to Joan Baez, born today in 1941! The folk singer, songwriter, and activist is known for her distinctive soprano vocal range and her commitment to social and political activism. Joan Baez rose to prominence in the early 1960s as part of the American folk music revival. Her self-titled debut album was released in 1960, featuring traditional folk songs.
JAN 10: Happy birthday to Rod Stewart, born today in 1945! He began his musical career in the early 1960s and gained attention as a member of several bands, including The Jeff Beck Group and Faces. Stewart's solo career took off in the early 1970s. His raspy voice and energetic stage presence became his trademark. His breakthrough albums include "Every Picture Tells a Story" (1971) and "Never a Dull Moment" (1972).
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MusicGoldmine.com recently acquired a stellar collection of ZZ Top awards, all presented to and personally owned by late ZZ Top bassist, co-lead vocalist, keyboardist, and songwriter Joe Michael "Dusty" Hill.
Hill founded the group with bandmates Billy Gibbons and Frank Beard in 1968 and played an integral part in the group's recordings and live performances for over 50 years until his passing in 2021.
Hill was a prolific collector of his own and other memorabilia. The 2019 Banger Films/Eagle Rock ZZ Top documentary That Little Ol' Band From Texas showed many of these and other record awards and mementos displayed on the walls of his home.
Check out these fantastic, or should we say Fandango!, pieces of ZZ Top history (and click any title or first photo to visit the item page for more photos, details, and price of item, if still available):
Dusty Hill's Personally Owned 2004 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Award. One of the rarest and most unique items we've ever carried is this Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame award presented to Dusty Hill commemorating ZZ Top's 2004 induction. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame awards, made in the style of a gold record plaque, are rarely seen in the collector marketplace.
Check out none other than the Stones' Keith Richards inducting ZZ Top into the Hall in '04. In his induction comments he tells of a shared love for the blues, which became his connection with the Texas trio (just press play to watch right here):
RIAA Gold Video Award fo ZZ Top Greatest Hits: The Video Collection presented to and personally owned by Dusty Hill of ZZ Top. Released on April 14, 1992 as a companion to the band's Greatest Hits album, it was certified Gold by the RIAA for 50,000 units "or retail value over $2,000,000" sold on July 30, 1992.
The video release included music videos the group put out during 1979–1990, from the albums Degüello through Recycler. Included were infamous videos for the ZZ classics "Tush", "Cheap Sunglasses", "Gimme' All Your Lovin' ", "Sharp Dressed Man", and "Legs", which landed in heavy rotation on MTV no doubt in part due to Hill and Gibbons sporting rotating fur axes... Who doesn't remember that 80s classic video? (Just press play to watch right here):
RIAA Gold Album Award for ZZ Top album Greatest Hits, presented to and personally owned by Dusty Hill of ZZ Top. Released on April 14, 1992 , it was certified Gold by the RIAA for 500,000 copies sold on June 22, 1992. The video award shown above was for the companion video set released on the same date as this greatest hits album which included mostly tracks that the trio put out during 1979–1990, from the albums Degüello through Recycler.
CRIA (Canadian Recording Industry Association) Platinum Album Award for ZZ Top album Eliminator, presented to and personally owned by Dusty Hill of ZZ Top. Released on March 23, 1983, it was certified Platinum by the CRIA for 100,000 copies sold on June 13, 1984.
The album reached #2 on the Canada Top Albums chart, and the top 10 in many other countries around the world. A Platinum album in Canada represents 100,000 copies sold (in a country of then 36 million people). The album would later go on to achieve CRIA Diamond certification for over one million copies sold in Canada (it also achieved RIAA Diamond status).
ARIA (Australian Recording Industry Association) "double platinum" album award for ZZ Top album Eliminator, presented to and personally owned by Dusty Hill of ZZ Top. Released on March 23, 1983, it was certified "double platinum" by the ARIA in February 1987.
The release, which cemented ZZ Top's international superstardom, included classic tracks "Gimme' All Your Lovin' ", "Sharp Dressed Man", "Legs", "Got Me Under Pressure" and more. The album reached #2 on the Australian Top Albums chart, and the top 10 in many other countries around the world. It earned Diamond sales awards in the U.S. and Canada along with awards in many other territories.
This is a large (32" x 21.75") and impressive award with a great design (Note that the faint line running down the middle of the main photo is only a photography reflection--the award is not damaged in any way):
BPI (British Phonographic Industry) Silver Album Award for ZZ Top album Eliminator, presented to and personally owned by Dusty Hill of ZZ Top. Released on March 23, 1983, it was certified Silver by BPI for 60,000 copies sold on June 13, 1984.
The album reached #3 on the UK Album chart, and the top 10 in many other countries around the world. By 2004 the album was certified 4x Multi-Platinum by BPI.
Ampex Golden Reel award for ZZ Top album Afterburner presented to and personally owned by Dusty Hill of ZZ Top. Released on Oct. 28, 1985, the album was certified 5x Multi-Platinum by the RIAA by 1999 for five million copies sold. Featuring the hits "Sleeping Bag", "Roughboy", and "Velcro Fly" the album reached #4 on the Billboard Top 200 Albums chart, and the top 5 in most world music markets. It became ZZ Top's second-biggest selling album in the U.S. and did well in many other markets around the world as well.
Ampex Golden Reel awards were presented by the Ampex Corp. from approx. 1977 through 1989 for albums recorded entirely on Ampex recording tape which attained at least Gold sales in their country of origin. One award was given to the artist and one to the recording studio at which the project was recorded. Ampex awards often have a tarnished reel or plate, but this one is in superb condition.
Don't miss this chance to get one these rare awards presented to and personally owned by a founding member of ZZ Top.
See a list of all our items currently in stock for ZZ Top here.
See all the pre-owned RIAA and other record awards MusicGoldmine.com currently has for sale here or visit our home page for other memorabilia collections.
*Interested in knowing more about RIAA and other record awards and what makes them great to add to your collection? Subscribe to our free bi-weekly newsletter and get our MusicGoldmine RIAA and Record Award Guide free plus a 15% discount code here.
]]>Just a couple of highlights from this week in music history!
DEC 25: Happy birthday to Annie Lennox, born today in 1954! The Scottish singer, songwriter, and political activist gained international fame as one half of the Eurythmics, a musical duo she formed with musician Dave Stewart.
DEC 30: Happy birthday to Jeff Lynne, born today in 1947! The English musician, singer, songwriter, and record producer is best known as the leader and co-founder of the rock band Electric Light Orchestra (ELO). Lynne formed Electric Light Orchestra in 1970. ELO became known for its fusion of rock and classical music elements, incorporating orchestral instruments into a traditional rock band lineup. The band's symphonic sound and Lynne's melodic songwriting contributed to their commercial success.
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As we've acquired collections of awards and memorabilia from record industry executives, artist teams and others, we inevitably end up with some that would have been wonderful pieces of music history but instead are damaged. This not only ruins them for their current owner, it also robs the ability for future collectors to enjoy them. After all, this is not the way a record award was meant to look:
The sad thing is that much of the damage we see could have been avoided if some simple display and storage principles were considered over the years.
One solution is, of course, to lock awards and memorabilia up in darkened, perfectly climate controlled, humidity-free, pest-free storage facility. But even though investors in music memorabilia may want to do just that -- and probably should, in order to fully protect their investment -- the average person wants to display and enjoy the pieces they've collected.
So breaking this down into awards and memorabilia displayed vs. stored, here are some recommendations:
Display
When it comes to displaying your items, environmental factors are the most important in keeping your memorabilia in the best shape possible. Some of these tips are obvious, some not, but following them can keep your items looking as good as they can for the longest time possible.
Light: If you plan to have your awards or framed memorabilia such as a vintage tour jacket etc. hanging on a wall, give some thought to the location you choose. A spot with the least natural light possible is best. Generally, light--and especially UV light such as that from the rays of the sun and even some electrical lights--is the most damaging and you should avoid exposing your memorabilia to it.
Here's an example of the kind of significant effect light can have on an item's matte. This is what should be a uniformly dark charcoal-colored pebble texture matte. Found in a trashed 1975-81 RIAA "floater" award, look at the square area where the album cover miniature has fallen off that has been protected from light versus the rest of the matte that has been exposed to light over the years:
Temperature: Extreme heat or cold is not good for artwork, and certainly not for record awards. While older awards with metal mother discs stand up to heat better, newer awards made after the early 80s have coated plastic discs that do very poorly in hot temperatures.
In extreme examples, the underlying plastic disc becomes warped completely. This kind of damage can be caused if an award is left in a closed car in summer, for example. This is a reminder of the damage that can occur when items are transported or left in a vehicle, so be wary of this as well.
A more common problem in all of the newer awards with plastic discs is that, with even moderate heat, separation of the gold or silver ("platinum") metallic coating on the discs can occur. Here's an example of what that damage looks like, and there is no way to repair this, outside of replacing the entire disc:
Humidity: Humidity is another destroyer of memorabilia. In highly-humid environments problems can range from mold growth and degradation of record disc finishes to warping of mattes and other paper-based materials.
Humidity can also cause the adhesives and tapes used in record awards and framed memorabilia to degrade over time, causing components to become dislodged and fall down inside the frame.
Storage
Needless to say, the same environmental considerations regarding light, temperature and humidity apply to items in storage. In terms of light, a completely dark closet or storage room is best since it will provide maximum protection. Ideally, your storage area should be climate-controlled to maintain a stable 68F/20C degree environment year-round.
Sheds, garages and similar locations are not great places to store awards or memorabilia items, most especially in areas with high humidity. An extreme example of course, but here's what an unfortunate RIAA floater award victim looked like after a stint in a shed somewhere in the humid northeast U.S.:
Here are some other considerations when storing memorabilia:
Storage Position: This mainly applies to record awards but can also be important for other framed items. The main point here is to store framed items flat on their backs, with the components facing up so that gravity is not constantly pulling at the components and weakening tapes and adhesives.
Remember, for example, that on 1964-74 RIAA "white matte" awards, the relatively heavy metal mother discs were only held in by criss-crosses of standard masking tape. Constant pulling in the wrong direction can cause the disc to pull loose.
Not only will this then require a repair to look good again but, on an award with an original backing paper, it can negatively affect the value of the award--at least to a purist collector who values originality.
Storage Bags/Cardboard Corners: Consider investing in some acid-free polyethylene bags to encase your framed items in and protect them from dust, dirt and tiny creatures. There are many brands and sizes available to meet your needs but be sure to choose 2 mil or thicker bags and that they are made from polyethylene. Bags that are not acid-free can eventually stain wood, card stock, and paper so stay away from them.
Cardboard corners can be used to help store awards or framed items in a stack by providing a spacer. This will prevent damage to backing papers from hanger wires and hooks:
And, not to state the obvious, but if you have insect or other pest problems, you'll definitely want to choose a storage spot that is treated to prevent these as well. Pests often find the adhesives, fabric and other odd bits of your memorabilia to be attractive feasts so you definitely want to prevent that.
So, give some thought to how you display and store your record awards and memorabilia. It will ensure your treasures look great for as long as possible and also protect your investments.
Check out our current selection of RIAA and other collectible record awards here. Interested in other kinds of music memorabilia? Check that out here.
Want to learn more about RIAA and other record awards? Check out our Record Award Guide here.
Important Notice/Disclaimer: While many record awards and music memorabilia items appreciate in value, others fall in value and MusicGoldmine.com makes no claims, express or implied, that any item will appreciate in value at any time in the future. Further, MusicGoldmine.com is not providing investment advice in any of its' content.
]]>Just a couple of highlights from this week in music history!
DEC 5: Sadly, Denny Laine passed away today at age 79. The English musician, singer, and songwriter is best known for his involvement in two iconic bands: The Moody Blues and Wings. Laine was a founding member of The Moody Blues, a pioneering rock band. He played guitar and sang with the band during its early years, contributing to their rhythm and blues sound.
Perhaps Laine's most significant contribution to music was as a member of Wings, Paul McCartney's post-Beatles band. Laine played guitar, bass, and sang alongside McCartney, forming the core of the band. During his time with Wings, they achieved considerable success with albums like "Band on the Run" and songs like "Live and Let Die." Laine co-wrote some of Wings' songs with McCartney, including "Mull of Kintyre," which became one of the best-selling singles in the UK.
In 2018, Laine was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the Moody Blues.
Photo courtesy: Rob DiCaterino [https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/deed.en]Lill
DEC 17: Happy birthday to Paul Rodgers, born today in 1949! The English rock singer, songwriter, and musician is best known for his powerful and soulful vocals. Rodgers gained prominence as the lead vocalist for several successful rock bands.
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They had to be eye catching, represent both the record label brand and the artist, and do this all in the 3.5" (45s) or 4" (LPs) diameter circle of paper that would get pressed into the hot vinyl of the record during manufacture.
Some labels wanted people to rely on their label for a certain genre of music during certain eras. Atlantic, IRS, Def Jam come to mind as examples of this. Other labels varied their labels by genre of artist or created custom labels for their most successful artists.
Everyone is familiar with major label record logos and designs. We all grew up with these labels in our record collections. Interestingly though, labels varied by country, year released (first pressing vs. later pressing), and other factors. Some of the labels you see here are from early pressings, some from late, and some are from the U.K. or elsewhere:
Let's close this article with another one of the best designs ever, the short-lived Chocolate City Records, which was run by Cecil Holmes, Neil Bogart's partner at Casablanca Records:
Check out MusicGoldmine.com's broad selection of vintage record, tapes, CDs, and MiniDiscs here.
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All images by MusicGoldmine.com
Some great musical talents left us in 2023 and it's worth taking a minute to remember them and the musical gifts they left us with. Many are missing here for sure and this is not meant to be an exhaustive list but here are many of the most notable deaths from last year in chronilogical order (name, known for, age, date of death, location if known, cause of death if known):
Fred White, Earth, Wind & Fire 67, January 1, 2023 Los Angeles, California, U.S. Undisclosed causes
Sebastian Marino, Overkill, Anvil 57, January 1, 2023 Florida, U.S. Heart attack
Gangsta Boo, Three 6 Mafia 43, January 1, 2023 Memphis, Tennessee U.S. Overdose of cocaine, fentanyl, and alcohol
Kingsize Taylor, Kingsize Taylor and the Dominoes 83, January 2, 2023 Southport, England Undisclosed
Alan Rankine, The Associates 64, January 3, 2023 Heart disease
Gordy Harmon, The Whispers 79, January 5, 2023 Los Angeles, California, U.S. Undisclosed causes
Jeff Blackburn, Blackburn & Snow, Moby Grape, The Ducks 77, January 6, 2023 Santa Cruz, California, U.S. Undisclosed
Dennis Budimir, guitarist, The Wrecking Crew 84, January 10, 2023 U.S. Undisclosed causes
Jeff Beck, The Yardbirds, The Jeff Beck Group, Beck, Bogert & Appice 78, January 10, 2023 East Sussex, England Bacterial meningitis
Jeff Beck in 1985
Yukihiro Takahashi, Yellow Magic Orchestra, Sadistic Mika Band, Metafive 70, January 11, 2023 Karuizawa, Nagano, Japan Pneumonia
Lisa Marie Presley, Singer-songwriter; daughter of Elvis Presley 54, January 12, 2023 Los Angeles, California, U.S. Cardiac arrest
Robbie Bachman, Bachman-Turner Overdrive, Brave Belt 69, January 12, 2023 Vancouver, Canada Undisclosed causes
Keith "Duke" Beaton, Blue Magic 72, January 13, 2023 Pennsylvania, U.S. Undisclosed causes
Bruce Gowers, event producer and music video director 82, January 15, 2023 Santa Monica, California, U.S. Acute respiratory infection
Johnny Powers, Rockabilly guitarist and singer 84, January 16, 2023 Michigan, U.S. Undisclosed causes
Larry Morris, Larry's Rebels 75, January 17, 2023 Auckland, New Zealand Long illness
Renée Geyer, Singer 69, January 17, 2023 Geelong Victoria, Australia Complications from hip surgery
Van Conner, Screaming Trees 55, January 18, 2023 Seattle, Washington, U.S. Pneumonia
David Crosby, The Byrds, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young 81, January 19, 2023 Santa Ynez, California, U.S. COVID-19
David Crosby (second from left) with Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young in 1970
Alex Napier, Spice, Uriah Heep 75, January 19, 2023 Undisclosed
Jerry Blavat, Disc jockey and presenter 82, January 20, 2023 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S. Complications from myasthenia gravis
Marshall Tucker, Marshall Tucker Band 99, January 20, 2023, USA
B.G., the Prince of Rap Rapper and Eurodance artist 57, January 21, 2023 Wiesbaden, Germany Prostate cancer
Lin Brehmer, Disc jockey 68, January 22, 2023 Chicago, Illinois, U.S. Prostate cancer
Anthony "Top" Topham, The Yardbirds 75, January 23, 2023 Dementia
Dean Daughtry, Atlanta Rhythm Section, Classics IV 76, January 26, 2023 Huntsville, Alabama, U.S. Natural causes
Peter McCann, Songwriter and musician 74, January 26, 2023 Nashville, Tennessee, U.S. Undisclosed causes
Floyd Sneed, drummer of Three Dog Night 80, January 27, 2023 Undisclosed
Daniel Boone, Pop musician 80, January 27, 2023 Paignton, Devon, England Undisclosed
Tom Verlaine, Television 73, January 28, 2023 Manhattan, New York City, New York, U.S. Prostate cancer
Barrett Strong, Singer-songwriter 81, January 28, 2023 Detroit, Michigan, Undisclosed causes
Charlie Thomas, The Drifters 85, January 31, 2023 Bowie, Maryland, Liver cancer
George Zukerman, Bassoonist and impresario 95, February 1, 2023, After a brief illness
Tim Quy, Cardiacs 61, February 2, 2023 Barnstaple, North Devon, England Cancer
Butch Miles, Jazz drummer 78, February 2, 2023 Austin, Texas, U.S. Pulmonary fibrosis
Paul Janovitz, Cold Water Flat 54, February 3, 2023 Bedford, Massachusetts, U.S. Long illness
Lillian Walker-Moss, The Exciters 78, February 5, 2023 Jamaica, Queens, New York City, U.S. Angiosarcoma
Phil Spalding, GTR, Original Mirrors, Toyah 65, February 6, 2023 Undisclosed
Steve Sostak, Sweep the Leg Johnny 49, February 7, 2023 Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois, U.S. Undisclosed
Burt Bacharach, Singer-songwriter and pianist 94, February 8, 2023 Los Angeles, California, U.S. Natural causes
Burt Bacharach in 1972
AKA, Rapper 35, February 10, 2023 Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa Shot
David Jude, Jolicoeur De La Soul 54, February 12, 2023 New York City, New York, U.S. Congestive heart failure
Huey "Piano" Smith, R&B pianist 89, February 13, 2023 Baton Rouge, Louisiana, U.S. Undisclosed
Tim Aymar, Pharaoh, Control Denied 59, February 14, 2023 New Kensington, Pennsylvania, U.S. Heart attack
Chuck Jackson, R&B singer 85, February 16, 2023 Atlanta, Georgia, U.S. Undisclosed
Alberto Radius, Formula 3 80, February 16, 2023 San Colombano al Lambro, Italy Long illness
Kyle Jacobs, Country music songwriter, singer, and musician 49, February 17, 2023 Nashville, Tennessee, U.S. Suicide by gunshot
Michael "Majk Moti" Kupper, Running Wild 65, February 17, 2023 Undisclosed
Davis Causey, Sea Level 74, February 19, 2023 U.S. Undisclosed
Bruce Barthol, Country Joe & the Fish 75, February 20, 2023 Sebastopol, California, U.S. Undisclosed
Lyubomir Futorsky, Dead Rooster 50, February 20, 2023 Kyiv, Ukraine Undisclosed
Ron Altbach, King Harvest 76, February 21, 2023 U.S. Undisclosed
Jesse Gress, Guitarist 67, February 21, 2023 Woodstock, New York, U.S. Undisclosed
Junnosuke Kuroda, Sumika 34, February 23, 2023 Japan Undisclosed
Tom Whitlock, songwriter/lyricist 68, February 23, 2023, USA
David Lumsden, Keyboardist and music educator 94, February 25, 2023 Winchester, England Undisclosed
Hans-Joachim Behrendt, Ideal 68, February 27, 2023 Berlin, Germany Undisclosed
Yvonne Constant, Singer 92, February 28, 2023 Larmor-Plage, France Undisclosed
Leon Hughes, The Coasters 92, March 1, 2023 Los Angeles, California, U.S. Natural causes
Steve Mackey, Pulp 56, March 2, 2023 Sheffield, England Undisclosed illness
Wayne Shorter, The Jazz Messengers, Miles Davis Quintet, Weather Report 89, March 2, 2023 Los Angeles, California, U.S. Undisclosed
David Lindley, Multi-instrumentalist, solo artist 78, March 3, 2023 Claremont, California, U.S. Kidney damage as a complication of COVID-19
Robert Haimer, Barnes & Barnes 68, March 4, 2023 Los Angeles, California, U.S. Undisclosed
Michael Rhodes, The Notorious Cherry Bombs 69, March 4, 2023 Nashville, Tennessee, U.S. Pancreatic cancer
Spot, record producer for Black Flag, Descendents 71, March 4, 2023 Sheboygan, Wisconsin, U.S. Complications from stroke
James "Owl" Walsh, Gypsy 74, March 4, 2023 Minneapolis, Minnesota, U.S. Congestive heart failure
Gary Rossington, Lynyrd Skynyrd 71, March 5, 2023 Milton, Georgia, U.S. Undisclosed
Gary Rossington (center) with Lynyrd Skynyrd in 1977
Eric Alan Livingston, Mamaleek 38, March 6, 2023 Undisclosed
Josua Madsen, Artillery 45, March 8, 2023 Copenhagen, Denmark Bus accident
Robin Lumley, Brand X, The Spiders from Mars 74, March 9, 2023 Plymouth, England Heart Failure
Napoleon XIV, Singer-songwriter 84, March 10, 2023 Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, U.S. Complications from Dementia & Parkinson's Disease
Costa Titch Amapiano, rapper and dancer 27, March 11, 2023 Johannesburg, South Africa Collapsed on stage
Canisso, Bassist for Raimundos 57, March 13, 2023 São Paulo, Brazil Undisclosed
Simon Emmerson, Afro Celt Sound System 67, March 13, 2023 Dorchester, Dorset, England Long illness
Jim Gordon, Derek and the Dominos, Traffic, Delaney & Bonnie and Friends 77, March 13, 2023 Vacaville, California, U.S. Natural causes
Bobby Caldwell, Singer-songwriter and musician 71, March 14, 2023 Great Meadows, New Jersey, U.S. Long illness
Tony Coe, Jazz musician 88, March 16, 2023 Canterbury, Kent, England Undisclosed
Fuzzy Haskins, Parliament-Funkadelic 81, March 17, 2023 Grosse Pointe Woods, Michigan, U.S. Complications of diabetes
Mick Slattery, Hawkwind 77, March 17, 2023 Short illness
Dima Nova, Cream Soda 35, March 20, 2023 Volga, Russia Drowned
Tom Leadon, Mudcrutch 70, March 22, 2023, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, U.S. Brain hemorrhage
Luca Bergia, Drummer for Marlene Kuntz 54, March 23, 2023 Cuneo, Italy Undisclosed causes
Nick Lloyd Webber, Composer and record producer; son of Andrew Lloyd Webber 43, March 25, 2023 Basingstoke, Hampshire, England Gastric cancer
Ray Pillow, Singer 85, March 26, 2023 Nashville, Tennessee, U.S. Undisclosed
Howie Kane, Jay and the Americans 81, March 27, 2023 U.S. Undisclosed
Ryuichi Sakamoto, Yellow Magic Orchestra 71, March 28, 2023 Tokyo, Japan Cancer
Brian Gillis, LFO 47, March 29, 2023 Springfield, Massachusetts, U.S. Undisclosed
Sweet Charles, Sherrell James Brown's band, The J.B.'s 80, March 29, 2023 Netherlands Emphysema
Ray Shulman, Gentle Giant 73, March 30, 2023 London, England Long illness
Red Robinson, Disc jockey 86, April 1, 2023 Vancouver, Canada A brief illness
Seymour Stein, Sire Records executive, American Hall of Fame Music, 80, April 2, 2023 Los Angeles, California, U.S. Cancer
Vivian Trimble, Luscious Jackson 59, April 4, 2023 U.S. Cancer
Guy Bailey, The Quireboys 61, April 6, 2023 Undisclosed
Paul Cattermole, S Club 7, 46, April 6, 2023 Wareham, Dorset, England Heart failure
Ian Bairnson, The Alan Parsons Project, Pilot 69, April 7, 2023 Surrey, England Dementia
John Regan, Frehley's Comet 71, April 7, 2023 Wappingers Falls, New York, U.S. Undisclosed
Lasse Wellander, Guitarist for ABBA 70, April 7, 2023 Bålsta, Sweden Cancer
Cliff Fish, Paper Lace 73, April 14, 2023 Cyprus Cancer
Mark Sheehan, The Script 46, April 14, 2023 Undisclosed illness
Ahmad Jamal, Jazz pianist 92, April 16, 2023 Ashley Falls, Massachusetts, U.S. Prostate cancer
April Stevens, Nino Tempo & April Stevens 93, April 17, 2023 Phoenix, Arizona, U.S. Undisclosed
Otis Redding III, The Reddings 59, April 18, 2023 Macon, Georgia, U.S. Cancer
Moonbin Astro, 25, April 19, 2023 Seoul, South Korea Suicide
Mark Stewart, The Pop Group, Mark Stewart & The Maffia, New Age Steppers 62, April 21, 2023 Undisclosed
Ron Cahute, Recording artist and songwriter 68, April 22, 2023 Toronto, Canada Undisclosed
Keith Gattis, Singer-songwriter, guitarist, record producer 52, April 23, 2023 Tractor accident
Harry Belafonte, Singer 96, April 25, 2023 Manhattan, New York City, New York, U.S. Congestive heart failure
Harry Belafonte in 1970
Billy "The Kid" Emerson, Singer-songwriter 97, April 26, 2023 Clearwater, Florida, U.S. Undisclosed
Wee Willie Harris, Rock and roll singer 90, April 27, 2023 Undisclosed
Tim Bachman, Bachman-Turner Overdrive, Brave Belt 71, April 28, 2023 London, England Cancer
John Fean, Horslips 71, April 28, 2023 Shannon, County Clare, Ireland Undisclosed
Gordon Lightfoot, Singer-songwriter 84, May 1, 2023 Toronto, Canada Natural causes
Linda Lewis, Singer-songwriter 72, May 3, 2023 Waltham Abbey, England Natural causes
Rob Laakso, Kurt Vile and the Violators, Swirlies 44, May 4, 2023 Bile-duct cancer
Chris Strachwitz, Record producer 91, May 5, 2023 San Rafael, California, U.S. Undisclosed
Menahem Pressler, Beaux Arts Trio 99, May 6, 2023 London, England Undisclosed
Rita Lee, Os Mutantes 75, May 8, 2023 São Paulo, Brazil Lung cancer
Jon Povey, Pretty Things, Bern Elliott and the Fenmen 80, May 9, 2023 Undisclosed
Francis Monkman, Curved Air, Matching Mole, Sky, 801 73, May 11, 2023 Bedfordshire, England Cancer
Dum-Dum Facção, Central 54, May 12, 2023 Complications from a stroke
Arno Veimer, Terminaator 50, May 13, 2023 Undisclosed
John Giblin, Bassist 71, May 14, 2023 Cheltenham, England Chronic illness
Algy Ward Tank, The Damned, The Saints 63 May 17, 2023 Royal Tunbridge Wells, England Undisclosed
Pete Brown, Singer and performance poet 82, May 19, 2023 Hastings, England Cancer
Andy Rourke, The Smiths 59, May 19, 2023 New York City, New York, U.S. Pancreatic cancer
Andy Rourke (far left) with The Smiths in 1985
Ed Ames, Ames Brothers 95, May 21, 2023 Los Angeles, California, U.S. Alzheimer's disease
Kirk Arrington, Metal Church 61, May 22, 2023 Undisclosed
Chas Newby, The Beatles, The Quarrymen, 81 May 22, 2023 London, England Undisclosed
Mark Adams, Saint Vitus 64, May 23, 2023 Parkinson's disease
Redd Holt, The Ramsey Lewis Trio 91, May 23, 2023 Chicago, Illinois, U.S. Lung cancer
Sheldon Reynolds Sun, The Commodores, Earth, Wind & Fire 63, May 23, 2023 Undisclosed
Bill Lee, Jazz bassist and composer 94, May 24, 2023 New York City, New York, U.S. Undisclosed
Tina Turner, Singer-songwriter 83, May 24, 2023 Küsnacht, Switzerland After a long illness
Tina Turner in 1970
İlham Gencer, Turkish jazz musician 101, May 24, 2023 Bodrum, Turkey Undisclosed
Reuben Wilson, Willis Jackson, Melvin Sparks 88, May 26, 2023 Harlem, New York, Lung cancer
Mordechai Rechtman, Israeli bassonist 97, May 27, 2023 Tel Aviv, Israel Undisclosed
Just a couple of highlights from this week in music history!
NOV 22: Happy birthday to Tina Weymouth, born today in 1950! The American musician and songwriter is best known as the bassist and co-founder of the new wave band Talking Heads. Weymouth formed Talking Heads in 1975 with her husband Chris Frantz, and David Byrne.
DEC 3: Sadly today, Myles Goodwin passed away at age 75. The Canadian musician, singer, songwriter, and producer is best known as the lead vocalist and primary songwriter for the rock band April Wine. He co-founded April Wine in 1969 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The band achieved significant success in the 1970s and 1980s, becoming one of Canada's most popular and enduring rock acts.
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Just a couple of highlights from this week in music history!
NOV 7: Happy birthday to Joni Mitchell, whose real name is Roberta Joan Anderson, born today in 1943. She is considered one of the most influential and talented artists in the world of folk and rock music. Mitchell's career has spanned several decades, and her work is known for its poetic lyrics, innovative songwriting, and her ability to blend various musical genres, including folk, rock, jazz, and pop. Some of her most famous songs include "Big Yellow Taxi," "Both Sides, Now," "A Case of You," and "Woodstock."
NOV 19: Happy birthday to Matt Sorum, born today in 1960! The drummer and musician is known for his association with several rock bands. One of his most prominent roles was serving as the drummer for Guns N' Roses from 1990 to 1997, during a period when the band released the albums "Use Your Illusion I" and "Use Your Illusion II." He also played with The Cult in the late 1980s and later joined Velvet Revolver, a supergroup formed in the early 2000s that included former Guns N' Roses members and Scott Weiland of Stone Temple Pilots.
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MusicGoldmine.com recently donated a RIAA Gold Album award for the St. Elmo's Fire movie soundtrack to a charity organized by The Sands. The Sands is a week-long event held at a tropical resort -- this year in November at the Planet Hollywood resort in Cancun, Mexico. It features concerts from 80s and 90s artists along with a celebration of Gen X movies and culture.
The award was signed at the event by Andrew McCarthy, one of the stars of the 1985 coming-of-age film St. Elmo's Fire. It was then raffled off to one lucky attendee at the exclusive event. Proceeds from the raffle benefited a charity established by The Sands to help a school in the Dominican Republic.
Andrew McCarthy with the St. Elmos Fire RIAA award he signed (Photo Credit: Kelley Sweet Photography)
The event, held November 6-10, featured a bevy of acts including ABC, Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo, Glass Tiger, Jack Russell's Great White, Night Ranger, Queensrÿche, The Human League, Tiffany, and Tom Bailey of Thompson Twins, along with a 90s "MTV" night featuring Cover Girls, Haddaway, Midnight Star, Ready For The World, Stevie B, and 69 Boyz.
Also in attendance and acting as MCs for the various concerts were former MTV VJ's "Downtown" Julie Brown, Mark Goodman, Alan Hunter and radio personalities Richard Blade and Eddie Trunk. Goodman and Hunter helped present the award to the raffle winner.
Former MTV VJs Mark Goodman and Alan Hunter join Sands organizer Steve Robinson and Greg Craycraft of The Reflexx (R-L) in drawing for the winner of the St. Elmo's Fire RIAA award
In addition to McCarthy, other 80s film stars also attended including Michael Winslow (Police Academy films), Catherine Mary Stewart (Weekend At Bernie's), and Daphne Zuniga (Spaceballs).
Plans are already underway for The Sands 2024, which will be held at the same resort. Early performers announced as of the date of this article include Level 42, Billy Ocean, Technotronic, The Fixx and more to be announced. Information about The Sands can be found at thesands.rocks.
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Top and main photo: Kelley Sweet Photography
Bottom photo: MusicGoldmine.com
]]>Just a couple of highlights from this week in music history!
OCT 27: Happy birthday to Simon Le Bon, born today in 1958! The English singer and songwriter is best known as the lead vocalist for the British new wave and synth-pop band Duran Duran. Simon Le Bon's charismatic and distinctive voice played a key role in the band's success, becoming one of the most successful and influential bands of the 1980s.
NOV 5: Happy birthday to Bryan Adams, born today in 1959. Bryan Adams is known for his distinctive raspy voice, and he has produced a wide range of rock and pop hits over the years.
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Ever picked up a record, cassette or CD labeled “For Promotional Use Only -- Not For Resale” and wondered if it’s okay to buy or sell it? The answer, as was declared in the San Francisco-area Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals in 2011, is “yes” to both.
But the road to that answer was full of twists and turns, and at many times in the past the issue was mired in a tussle between consumers and record companies.
Not that some in the music industry didn’t happily reside in that grey area by selling promo copies. In a book he wrote about Lester Bangs, the music critic immortalized by Philip Seymour Hoffman in his portrayal of the scribe in 1997 film Almost Famous, music writer Jim DeRogatis reported that Bangs lived off the sale of promo copies between writing gigs.
Promotional-only records, often referred to as promo records or promo singles, have a rich history in the music industry. These records are distinct from commercially released albums or singles, as they are specifically created for promotional purposes. Typically, promotional records are distributed to radio stations, music journalists, and industry insiders to generate buzz and interest in an upcoming release.
The "promo only" stamp appeared in various spots on albums, here on the upper right. The language often varied between labels as well.
However, the distribution and sale of promotional records to the general public faced legal challenges over the years.
The concept of promotional records dates back to the early days of the recording industry when record labels sought innovative ways to market their artists and releases. The idea was simple yet effective – send out special copies of a song or album to key influencers who could help create a buzz around the music. This strategy proved successful in building anticipation and driving sales upon the official release.
Sometimes the LP label itself included promo copy and not for sale markings
Promotional records often feature unique characteristics that set them apart from their commercial counterparts. They may have special markings, labels, or packaging indicating their promotional nature. Some promo records also include exclusive tracks, remixes, or early versions of songs, making them collectible items for music enthusiasts.
While the primary purpose of promotional records is to generate publicity, issues arise when these records find their way into the hands of the general public. Record labels and artists have historically been concerned about the potential impact of unauthorized sales of promo records on their marketing strategies and revenue streams. This concern led to legal challenges aimed at preventing consumers from buying or selling promotional records.
One legal challenge that gained prominence occurred in the late 1970s when major record labels initiated lawsuits against retailers and individuals involved in the sale of promotional records. The labels argued that the distribution and sale of these records to the public violated copyright and contractual agreements. The legal battles focused on whether promo records were intended for sale and whether the recipients had the right to transfer ownership.
In many cases, record labels included explicit statements on promo records asserting that they were not for sale and that unauthorized distribution was prohibited. These statements were intended to establish legal grounds for pursuing those who attempted to profit from the sale of promotional material.
Another version of language on this 1986 promo cassette: "Sale Is Unlawful"
However, the legal landscape surrounding promotional records remained complex, and courts had to carefully consider the intentions of the record labels and the rights of the recipients.
In some instances along the way, courts ruled in favor of record labels, issuing injunctions against the sale of promotional records to the public. These rulings reinforced the notion that promo records were intended solely for promotional use and not for commercial distribution. However, legal challenges continued to emerge, and the issue persisted over the years.
The 2011 ruling that settled the issue came in the case of UMG (Universal Music Group) vs. Augusto (Troy Augusto—an eBay seller who bought promo copies and resold them on eBay). It brought clarity to the situation by rejecting UMG’s claim that they retained ownership of their promo copies even when they were in others' hands.
Also, as technology advanced, the landscape of music distribution changed significantly. With the rise of digital formats and the decline of physical media, the challenges related to promotional records evolved. Online platforms and file-sharing networks facilitated the unauthorized distribution of promotional material, prompting the industry to adapt its strategies for combating piracy and protecting promotional content in new emerging formats (ever heard of Napster?).
So, thanks to the good old Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals -- and something called "First Sale Doctrine" along with some other legal mumbo jumbo we'll spare you of by not covering here -- collectors can enjoy collecting promo copies, knowing that they are rarer than typical records, tapes, or CDs.
Check out our broad selection of vintage record, tapes, CDs, and MiniDiscs (yes, including many promo copies) here.
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Good old legal disclaimer: Nothing in this article is intended to provide legal advice.
]]>Just a couple of highlights from this week in music history!
Li
OCT 10: Happy birthday to Midge Ure, born on today in 1953. The Scottish musician, singer-songwriter, and producer co-founded the band Ultravox and was a key figure in the new wave and synth-pop movements. Ure achieved global success with "Vienna" and "Dancing with Tears in My Eyes." Beyond Ultravox, he co-organized Live Aid in 1985 and co-wrote "Do They Know It's Christmas?" Ure's versatile talent and contributions to music have left an indelible mark, earning him recognition and respect in the industry.
OCT 21: Happy birthday to Charlotte Caffey, born today in 1953! The talented musician and songwriter is best known as the guitarist and one of the founding members of the iconic all-female rock band The Go-Go's. The Go-Go's were a significant part of the 1980s music scene and helped pave the way for women in rock and pop music.
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Exciting news for Beatles fans today as a new track entitled "Now And Then" has come to light. New software developed during the production of Peter Jackson's 2022 documentary series Get Back unlocked a vocal and piano demo recorded by John Lennon in the 70s, allowing it to be developed into the new work.
The recording was first heard by the surviving Beatles in 1995, but it remained unusable until the new technology enabled an uncoupling of Lennon's vocal from the piano on the track. This enabled the other Beatles to add their parts -- including George Harrison, whose rhythm guitar parts were recorded in 1995 -- and make it a creation of all four Beatles.
Here's the official music video of the track from the Beatles official YouTube™ channel, cleverly intercut with all sorts of vintage Beatles footage. It was directed by Peter Jackson. (Just click the red play button to watch it right here):
Also, here's a wonderful short film also posted on the Beatles official channel that tells more about the fascinating story of how the track came to be. Check it out (just click the red play button to watch it right here):
The track was released worldwide at 7 AM PT on Thursday, Nov. 2, by Apple Corps Ltd./Capitol/UMe. The double A-side single on vinyl also features the Beatles first song released, “Love Me Do", which was their debut single released in 1962.
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]]>Music has a profound impact on our lives, and for many, it's not just about the songs but also the tangible artifacts that connect us to the artists and their legacies. Music memorabilia museums are dedicated to preserving this
Björn Ulvaeus from ABBA had this "star guitar" created by luthier Hagström for the group's debut at the 1974 Eurovision Song Contest and today it is displayed at the ABBA Museum in Stockholm, Sweden
history, allowing fans to immerse themselves in the world of their favorite artists. In this article we'll take a virtual tour of a dozen of the world's most impressive music memorabilia museums, ranked in no particular order.
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, Cleveland, Ohio
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is the Mecca of music memorabilia museums. Located in Cleveland, Ohio, this iconic institution pays homage to the greatest artists and achievements in rock and roll history. Visitors can explore a treasure trove of artifacts, including instruments, stage costumes, and personal belongings of legends like Jimi Hendrix, Elvis Presley, and The Rolling Stones.
One of the most iconic items in the collection is Michael Jackson's famous white glove, worn during his moonwalk performance. The museum also boasts interactive exhibits, offering visitors an immersive experience into the world of rock and roll. The museum's angular I.M. Pei architecture is also a treat to see.
The Grammy Museum, Los Angeles, California
Situated in one of the centers of the music and entertainment industries, the Grammy Museum in Los Angeles is a must-visit for music enthusiasts. The museum houses an extensive collection of music memorabilia that transcends genres and generations. It showcases not only the items associated with Grammy-winning artists but also the history of recorded music.
Visitors can marvel at John Lennon's famous round glasses, Taylor Swift's handwritten lyrics, and Elvis Presley's jumpsuits. The Grammy Museum also features interactive exhibits, offering a glimpse into the process of music creation, recording, and production. And don't forget to check out some Grammy history oddities, like Milli Vanilli's Grammy award, confiscated in late 1990 and broken in two by the organization.
The Beatles Story, Liverpool, UK
The Beatles Story museum in Liverpool, UK, is a must-visit for fans of the iconic band. This immersive museum offers a comprehensive look at The Beatles' history, from their early days in Liverpool to global superstardom. Visitors can explore memorabilia, interactive exhibits, and detailed recreations of key moments in the band's journey.
The museum provides an engaging and educational experience, delving into the cultural and musical impact of The Beatles, making it a pilgrimage site for fans worldwide.
Beatlemania merch on display at The Beatles Story Museum in Liverpool
British Music Experience, Liverpool, UK
While in the birthplace of the Beatles, The British Music Experience is also worth a visit. A vibrant museum dedicated to the rich musical heritage of the United Kingdom. This interactive attraction offers an immersive journey through British music history, showcasing iconic artifacts, costumes, instruments, and memorabilia.
Visitors can explore the influence of British artists on the global music scene, from The Beatles to Adele. With engaging exhibits and a diverse collection, it's a must-visit destination for music enthusiasts seeking to uncover the British music story.
Don't forget to check out the reopened Cavern Club while in Liverpool
MoPOP (Museum of Pop Culture), Seattle, Washington
MoPOP, previously known as the Experience Music Project (EMP), is dedicated to exploring the history of popular music and culture. Founded by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, the museum boasts a wide range of music memorabilia, including instruments, costumes, and rare artifacts. One of the most iconic items in the collection is one of Eddie Van Halen's stage- played "Frankenstein" guitars, designed and created by the rock guitar virtuoso himself.
The museum also showcases the cultural impact of music through exhibits related to science fiction, video games, and other aspects of pop culture. MoPop's wild architecture, designed by Frank Gehry, is also worth a look.
The ABBA Museum, Stockholm, Sweden
For fans of the legendary Swedish pop group ABBA, the ABBA Museum in Stockholm is a pilgrimage destination. The museum offers a comprehensive look at the band's history, from their Eurovision victory to their global success.
Visitors can explore the group's iconic costumes, handwritten lyrics, and even step into a recording studio to sing along with ABBA's hits. The museum also features interactive exhibits and a chance to virtually perform with holograms of the band members.
Check out the recording studio display at The ABBA Museum, complete with vintage gear used by ABBA in the 70s and 80s
Graceland, Memphis, Tennessee
This list wouldn't be complete without mentioning Graceland, located in Memphis, Tennessee. The iconic former home of Elvis Presley, often hailed as the "King of Rock 'n' Roll," the mansion is now a museum that allows fans and visitors to delve into the life and career of the music legend. Explore Elvis's living spaces, personal belongings, an impressive collection of memorabilia and record awards, and his final resting place.
Graceland provides an intimate glimpse into the world of one of the most significant figures in music history.
You've likely heard of the "Jungle Room" at Graceland, and vistors to Elvis Presley's home-turned-museum can check it out with their own eyes
The Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum, Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville, often referred to as the "Music City," is home to the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum, a hidden gem among music memorabilia museums. This institution honors not just the artists but also the session musicians and studio professionals who have shaped the sound of countless hits.
The museum features an extensive collection of vintage instruments, including those played by legends like Jimi Hendrix and Bob Dylan. It also highlights the behind-the-scenes heroes of the music industry, such as producers and engineers.
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Nashville, Tennessee
Another jewel in Nashville's crown, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, is dedicated to preserving the history and traditions of country music. It houses an impressive array of music memorabilia, from vintage guitars to stage costumes and handwritten lyrics.
One of the most notable artifacts in the collection is Elvis Presley's gold Cadillac limousine, a symbol of his larger-than-life presence in the country music scene. The museum also features rotating exhibits that delve into the stories of individual artists, their careers, and their contributions to the genre.
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum boasts a literal wall of RIAA Gold and Platinum Awards* from Nashville music luminaries
Handel & Hendrix, London, UK
The Handel and Hendrix Museum in London is a unique cultural destination that combines the legacies of two musical giants. It features the preserved homes of composers George Frideric Handel and Jimi Hendrix, who lived in adjacent residences centuries apart.
Visitors can explore the Baroque music era through Handel's home and then step into the swinging '60s in Hendrix's apartment. It's a remarkable journey through time, offering insight into two distinct but equally influential musical worlds.
Bob Marley Museum, Kingston, Jamaica
The Bob Marley Museum in Kingston, Jamaica, is a hallowed site for reggae music enthusiasts. Once the home of the legendary musician Bob Marley, it's now a museum dedicated to his life and musical legacy.
Visitors can explore the rooms where Marley lived and composed some of his greatest hits, view a vast collection of memorabilia, and even stand in the recording studio where his timeless songs were born. A must-visit for reggae fans, it offers an intimate look into the reggae icon's world.
The Stax Museum of American Soul Music, Memphis, Tennessee
Last but certainly not least, the Stax Museum pays tribute to the soul music genre, with a specific focus on the Stax Records label. The museum is located at the original site of Stax Records, where artists like Otis Redding and Isaac Hayes recorded their timeless hits.
The collection features instruments, costumes, and records from legendary soul artists. Visitors can walk through the very studio where these iconic songs were brought to life, immersing themselves in the soulful sounds of the past.
Stax Records legendary releases included music from Booker T. & the MGs, Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, the Staple Singers, Sam & Dave, Johnnie Taylor, Rufus Thomas and more
All of these museums offer a unique opportunity to connect with the artists, genres, and moments that have shaped the musical landscape. These institutions serve as gateways to the past, present, and future of music, and they allow visitors to immerse themselves in the rich history and cultural significance of the art form that moves us all. Check one or more out on your next trip!
Check out MusicGoldmine's current collection of music memorabilia for sale here.
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MoPOP Museum,Seattle and The Musicians Hall Of Fame and Museum, Nashville photo credits: EMP|SFM, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons; all other photos public domain or by MusicGoldmine.com
]]>The Beatles Yesterday and Today album's original Butcher cover is one of the most infamous album covers in the history of rock music. Released in 1966, the album initially featured a cover photograph that depicted the Fab Four dressed in butcher smocks, covered in pieces of raw meat and dismembered baby dolls. This shocking and controversial cover art was quickly withdrawn by the record label, Capitol Records, and replaced with a more conventional cover, making the original "Butcher cover" a rare and highly sought-after collector's item.
The story of the Butcher cover begins with The Beatles' rapid rise to fame and success. By 1966, the band was already an international sensation, with hit songs, critically acclaimed albums, and a massive fan following. They were also experimenting with their music and image, pushing the boundaries of what was expected from a popular music act. The Yesterday and Today album was intended to be a compilation of previously released tracks for the North American market. However, the Beatles decided to use this opportunity to make a statement.
The album's original cover was designed by the famed photographer Robert Whitaker. Whitaker was known for his avant-garde and controversial photography, and the Butcher cover was no exception. The cover art concept was the brainchild of John Lennon, and it was intended as a protest against the way Capitol Records had "butchered" their albums for the American market. The Beatles were unhappy with the way their albums were altered in the United States, with tracks rearranged and sometimes omitted to create a different product from the original UK releases.
The Butcher cover was meant to be a subversive and satirical commentary on the music industry. The Beatles donned white butcher smocks and posed with pieces of raw meat and dismembered baby dolls, creating a surreal and unsettling image. The dolls were meant to symbolize how they felt like puppets being controlled by the industry. It was a bold and provocative statement, especially for a band as beloved and influential as The Beatles.
When the album was initially released with the Butcher cover in June 1966, it created an immediate uproar. Many fans and music retailers were shocked and appalled by the cover, finding it tasteless and disturbing. There were also concerns that it would be seen as disrespectful to the memory of John F. Kennedy, whose assassination had occurred less than three years earlier.
The replacement design, dubbed the "Trunk cover"
Amid the controversy, Capitol Records decided to recall and replace the Butcher cover with a more conventional cover featuring the Beatles gathered around a steamer trunk. This new cover, known as the "Trunk cover," was used for subsequent pressings of the album. The Butcher cover was pasted over with the new cover image, and many copies of the original cover were destroyed or returned.
The Capitol recall letter was rushed out
Today, the original Butcher cover is a highly sought-after collector's item and one of the most valuable Beatles collectibles. It's estimated that only a few thousand copies of the Butcher cover survived the recall, making it a rare find. The cover's value has increased significantly over the years, with pristine, unpeeled Butcher covers fetching astronomical prices at auctions. These are known as "first state" Butcher covers.
The "second state" variety is an unpeeled cover that has the Butcher artwork underneath. These can be detected by a keen eye spotting the v-neck of Ringo's black shirt on the right side, showing through the white area on the Trunk cover.
As to the pasted-over copies of the album, crafty fans and collectors have carefully steamed off the Trunk cover to reveal the original cover underneath. While this process often ended with a very poor result, i.e. a torn up cover with little value, since it is very, very difficult to do, some very skilled "peelers" created some very good collectibles, known as "third state" Butcher covers. Most experts trust only a tiny handful of "peeler pros" worldwide to perform the tricky procedure.
The Butcher cover incident had a lasting impact on The Beatles and their relationship with Capitol Records. It marked a turning point in the band's career, as they gained more control over their music and releases, leading to the creation of albums like Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band that challenged the conventions of the music industry.
In retrospect, the Butcher cover stands as a symbol of The Beatles' artistic and cultural influence during the 1960s. It was a statement of rebellion and a challenge to the status quo, reflecting the band's desire to be more than just pop stars. It remains a fascinating and controversial chapter in the history of popular music and an enduring symbol of The Beatles' enduring impact on the world of music and art.
Check out our selection of Beatles memorabilia including, at time of article writing, a rare Butcher cover here.
]]>Just a couple of highlights from this week in music history!
OCT 3: Happy birthday to Gwen Stefani, born today in 1969, The American singer, songwriter, and fashion designer gained fame as the lead vocalist of the band No Doubt, achieving mainstream success in the '90s. Stefani later pursued a solo career, delivering hits like "Hollaback Girl" and "Cool." Beyond music, she's a fashion icon, launching the clothing brand L.A.M.B. and becoming a judge on "The Voice." With her distinctive style and powerful voice, Gwen Stefani has made a significant impact on both the music industry and popular culture.
OCT 5: Happy birthday to Brian Johnson, born today in 1947. The English singer and songwriter is best known as the lead vocalist of the Australian rock band AC/DC. Johnson joined AC/DC in 1980 after the passing of Bon Scott, and his debut album with the band, "Back in Black," became a massive success. Known for his powerful, gravelly voice and energetic stage presence, Johnson has contributed to numerous iconic AC/DC hits, including "You Shook Me All Night Long" and "Thunderstruck." He remains an integral part of the band, ensuring its enduring rock 'n' roll legacy.
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The Beatles are one of the most iconic and influential bands in the history of music, and their memorabilia is highly sought after by collectors around the world. The value of Beatles collectibles can vary widely based on factors such as rarity, condition, historical significance, age (with oldest items typically worth the most as with many collectibles) and the demand among collectors.
The value of such collectibles can fluctuate based on market demand, condition, provenance, and other factors, however. The following are examples of some of the more valuable Beatles collectibles along with approximate prices as available through 2022.
Prices may have changed somewhat since then, in some cases up (such as for autographs even from Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr, who at this point have essentially both stopped signing anything), in other cases down, but here are some of the most valuable Beatles collectibles:
"Butcher Cover" Album: An original "Butcher Cover" of the infamous 1966 Beatles album Yesterday and Today in good condition can fetch anywhere from $10,000 to well over $100,000, depending on factors such as the rarity of the edition and the condition of the cover. (Don't know the story of the Butcher cover? Check it out here). A first state, never peeled, i.e. never having the “trunk cover” slick glued over top of it, stereo edition is the rarest and thus most valuable. Even "peeled" versions, those which crafty buyers of the records carefully peeled away the trunk cover slick glued by Capitol Records over top of the offending cover, have good value. They can go for anywhere from $300 to $3,000, depending on how well the underlying cover survived the peel, whether mono or stereo, and the overall condition.
A "third state" Beatles butcher cover, i.e. peeled, but a VG to Excellent example
Autographed Items: Autographed items like albums, photographs, and documents signed by all four Beatles can vary widely in price. A fully signed album from the Beatles can range from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars. Individual Beatle autographs are also extremely valuable. For example, adding a properly authenticated Paul McCartney-signed pickguard to even a new Hofner-type “Beatle bass” can enable it to fetch $12-24,000. Always ensure an item you are considering has proper authentication from a third-party authenticator trusted by collectors. Documents such as contracts, letters with signatures of one or more Beatles (properly authenticated) can range from $5,000 to $100,000 depending on rarity, condition, and provenance. For more on ensuring an item has proper third-party authentication, check out our article here.
This new Hofner "Beatle bass" signed by Paul McCartney on the pickguard with PSA/DNA authentication sold for $13,530 in November 2021
First Pressing Vinyl Records: A pristine UK first pressing of "Please Please Me" can sell for $1,000 to $2,000, while a first pressing of Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band might be valued at $1,000 or more. There are many nuances and details that make one album, single, or other record worth more than another so some study is important to find the most valued items. For example, a low-numbered copy of The Beatles, known as the “White Album,” can bring as much as $5-10,000. If you are lucky enough to get your hands on one of the 12 that were reportedly all numbered 0000001 (which is certainly unlikely), you’ll have a real gold mine on your hands. Maybe not as much as Ringo Starr's personal copy No. 0000001, which was sold for a startling $790,000 at auction in December 2015, but certainly a pretty penny.
Concert Posters, Lobby Cards and Tickets: Original concert posters can range in price depending on the rarity and condition. For instance, a poster from the Beatles' Shea Stadium 1966 concert could be valued at several thousand dollars. Some versions for a lot more. For example, a bright-yellow cardboard version promoting the group’s August 23, 1966, Shea Stadium gig sold for $275,000 to set a new auction record in April 2022. Tickets or ticket stubs to concerts and other appearances go from $50 to $30,000 depending on rarity, condition, provenance, with Shea Stadium and Ed Sullivan rehearsal tickets often near the top of the list. And don't forget that the Beatles films made for some collectible lobby cards that were used in theaters upon the release of movies such as Yellow Submarine, Help! and others. Originals from the '60s can fetch from $50 on up.
While relatively easy to find and not too expensive, original 1960s lobby cards from Beatles films are popular with collectors
Record Awards: Gold and Platinum record awards presented to the Beatles have been known to sell for tens of thousands of dollars, especially those issued by the RIAA. Unsurprisingly, those presented to the group are worth the most. An example from the top of the scale came in early 2023, a Beatles-presented early RIAA “white matte” Gold Album award for the Beatles Hey Jude sold for $91,000. However, it had the special feature of being owned by the album’s namesake, Julian Lennon. Check out our article here on some of the other record-setting prices achieved on sales of Beatles RIAA awards. Other unique awards or special recognitions, such as a Grammy Award nomination plaque or Ivor Novello Award (a UK songwriters award), can also fetch high prices.
This RIAA Gold Single Award for early Beatles hit "I Feel Fine" presented to the Beatles sold for $12,500 in July 2023
Handwritten Lyrics: It goes without saying that these can be some of the most valuable items. Handwritten lyrics by John Lennon for the song "A Day in the Life" sold for over $1 million at auction. In 2020 lyrics written by Paul McCartney in 1968 for “Hey Jude” sold for $910,000. George Harrison’s original handwritten lyrics for “While my Guitar Gently Weeps” fetched $300,000 in 2007 and there are many other examples up and down the scale of lyrics selling for hefty amounts. Bottom line: If you can find properly authenticated lyrics written out by a Beatle, they are worth a lot, but note that the highest prices have clearly been attained by lyrics that were penned when the song was actually written.
Instruments: A drum kit used by Ringo Starr was sold at auction for $2.1 million in 2015. Guitars or basses used by John Lennon, Paul McCartney, or George Harrison can command even higher prices. A Gibson J-160E electric/acoustic guitar that John Lennon reportedly used to write “She Loves You”, “I Want to Hold Your Hand” and “All My Loving” and more went for $2.4 million in 2015. In 2006 a guitar that was the first that Paul McCartney ever played sold for $633,438 at auction. McCartney said in a provenance letter that accompanied it: “The above guitar belonging to my old school pal Ian James was the first guitar I ever held. It was also the guitar on which I learnt my first chords in his house at 43 Elswick Street Liverpool.”
Not the Ringo drumkit that sold for $2.1 million in 2015, but a similar one on display at the Beatles Story museum in Liverpool, England
Photos: A set of Bob Gomel's original photos from the Beatles' first U.S. tour in 1964 sold for around $360,000 at auction. There are many more examples of impressive amounts being paid for original Beatles photographs. In 2011, photos shot by unknown teenage photographer Mike Mitchell at the Beatles’ concert at the Washington Coliseum on February 11, 1964, sold for $360,000. Proving that even simple snapshots have significant value, amateur photographer Marc Weinstein used a self-made press pass to fool Shea Stadium's security and get into the Beatles' backstage area in 1965. While there he snapped 61 black and white photos which sold for over $35,000 in 2013.
Miscellaneous Fab 4 Memorabilia: While not achieving some of the stratospheric prices listed above, all sorts of Beatles collectibles were made and sold during Beatlemania, from wallets to wigs and beyond. Almost all of this memorabilia sells for pretty impressive prices, especially if it is from the 1960s and not later reissued versions. Here are a few examples:
Despite its' somewhat poor condition and lack of Thermos®, this 1968 Yellow Submarine lunchbox sold for $246 in January 2022
Beatles toys and novelties in their original packaging have the highest values
Please keep in mind that these prices are rough estimates based on historical data. The actual prices can vary widely depending on factors that include item condition, authenticity, provenance, and market conditions at the time of sale. It is recommended to consult specialized collectibles experts for the most accurate and up-to-date information on Beatles collectibles.
Check out our current selection of Beatles collectibles here.
]]>Just a couple of highlights from this week in music history!
SEPT 16: Happy birthday to Richard Marx, born today in1963. The American singer, songwriter, and producer rose to prominence in the late '80s and '90s, Marx is known for his chart-topping ballads such as "Right Here Waiting" and "Now and Forever." He has the distinction of being the only male artist in history to have his first seven singles reach the top 5 of the Billboard charts! With over 30 million records sold worldwide, his soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics have left an enduring impact on the contemporary music landscape, solidifying his status as a revered artist.
SEPT 18: On this day in 1970, Jimi Hendrix the revolutionary American musician, singer, and songwriter whose groundbreaking work with the electric guitar forever changed the landscape of rock and roll passed away. Born on November 27, 1942, in Seattle, Washington, Hendrix's unparalleled talent led him to international acclaim in the late 1960s. He pushed the boundaries of music, employing innovative techniques and effects, shaping a unique sound that blended rock, blues, and psychedelia. Hendrix's stage presence was equally mesmerizing, captivating audiences with his fiery performances. His albums, such as "Are You Experienced," "Axis: Bold as Love," and "Electric Ladyland," remain seminal works, showcasing his virtuosity and creativity. Tragically, Hendrix passed away at the young age of 27, but his enduring influence on music and culture is immeasurable. He is a timeless icon whose legacy lives on, inspiring countless musicians and continuing to captivate new generations.
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SEPT 2: Very sad news today, Jimmy Buffett has passed away at age 76, The iconic American musician was renowned for his laid-back, coastal-inspired music often referred to as "Gulf and Western." His hit songs like "Margaritaville" and "Cheeseburger in Paradise" capture a carefree beach lifestyle. Beyond music, he was an author, businessman, and the driving force behind the Margaritaville brand, encompassing restaurants, merchandise, and more. His devoted fanbase, known as "Parrotheads," passionately embraced his island-influenced tunes, making him a cultural phenomenon. With his unique blend of music and lifestyle, Jimmy Buffett has left an enduring mark on the world of entertainment. RIP
SEPT 4: Sadly, Gary Wright has passed away at age 80. The British-American musician gained fame in the 1970s with his hit singles like "Dream Weaver" and "Love Is Alive" and was known for their distinctive synthesizer sound. Wright's fusion of rock and electronic elements was innovative for its time and left a lasting impact on the music industry. His versatile career includes collaborations with renowned artists and a body of work that continues to resonate with fans, cementing his legacy as a pioneering musician in the realm of progressive and electronic rock. RIP
SEPT 7: Happy birthday to Chrissie Hynde the charismatic frontwoman of The Pretenders, born today in 1951. With her distinctive voice and songwriting prowess, she led the band to international acclaim in the late 1970s and '80s. Hits like "Brass in Pocket" and "Back on the Chain Gang" showcased her unique blend of rock and punk influences. Hynde's enduring career and contributions to the rock genre solidify her status as an iconic figure in the music industry.
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Just a couple of highlights from this week in music history!
AUG 19: Happy birthday to John Deacon the British musician best known as the bass guitarist for the legendary rock band Queen, born today in 1951! He was a crucial member of the band, contributing to their iconic sound with hits like "Another One Bites the Dust" and "You're My Best Friend." Deacon's melodic bass lines and songwriting skills played a significant role in Queen's success. He retired from music after Freddie Mercury's death in 1991 and has maintained a private life, staying away from the public eye and the music industry.
AUG 25: Happy birthday to Elvis Costello, born Declan Patrick MacManus today in 1954. The British singer-songwriter is known for his eclectic musical style, blending rock, new wave, punk, and folk influences. He rose to prominence in the late 1970s with his band, The Attractions, releasing hits like "Pump It Up" and "Oliver's Army." Throughout his career, Costello has showcased his lyrical prowess and versatility, continually experimenting with various genres. His unique voice and thought-provoking lyrics have solidified his place as a revered figure in the music industry.
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In the digital age, music has become more accessible than ever before. With the click of a button or a voice command, we can summon our favorite tunes from a vast ocean of songs. While the convenience of streaming services and digital downloads has undoubtedly revolutionized the way we consume music, it has also ushered in the decline of a once-beloved art form: album art.
For many music enthusiasts, the album cover was an integral part of the listening experience. It was a tangible representation of the artist's vision, an extension of the music itself. Each album cover was a miniature work of art, a window into the soul of the music it contained. In just a 12x12-inch square, album art had the power to captivate, mystify, provoke, and convey the essence of the music within.
The golden age of album art, spanning from the 1960s through the 1980s, produced some of the most iconic and enduring images in popular culture. Consider the vibrant collage on The Beatles' Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, the prism of Pink Floyd's The Dark Side of the Moon, or the gritty urban landscape of Bruce Springsteen's Born to Run. These covers, and countless others, became symbols of their respective eras and genres.
The Beatles iconic Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band album cover was designed by Peter Blake and Jann Hayworth
Album art was not merely an afterthought; it was a collaborative effort between musicians and visual artists. Visionaries like Storm Thorgerson, who designed surreal covers for Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin and many others, and Roger Dean, known for his fantastical landscapes gracing Yes albums, brought their artistic prowess to the world of music. These artists understood that an album cover could elevate the music, creating a visual narrative that deepened the listener's connection.
Led Zeppelin's 1976 Presence album art concept included creating 1,000 numbered copies of "The Object," the obelisk-like item in the center of the table
Sometimes album art inspired collectibles outside of the album cover, a trend seen with many artists today on their custom vinyl releases. When Storm Thorgerson's Hipgnosis art collective joined together with George Hardie to create Led Zeppelin's 1976 Presence album art with its' mysterious obelisk "The Object" on the table, the plan also included creating 1,000 numbered "Objects." These were distributed mostly to music industry staff and today originals are very desirable collectibles, each fetching $4,000 or more.
While album art was usually contained within that 12x12-inch square canvas of the LP jacket, the Rolling Stones took the format to a new level with their 1969 album Through The Past, Darkly (Big Hits Vol. 2), which sported a hexagonal jacket:
The Stones' 1969 octagonally-shaped album cover for Through The Past, Darkly
The Stones also experimented with 3D art with a quirky lenticular cover for their 1967 LP Their Satanic Majesties Request. The original plan was for the lenticular to compose the entire front of the jacket, but the record company balked due to the expense, so it was instead designed as an inset in the middle of the jacket.
Other unique Stones album covers included 1971's Sticky Fingers, with its' real zipper, the 1978 release Some Girls, which featured cut-outs of faces, and 1983's Undercover, which had stickers on its' cover.
Beyond the visual spectacle, album art often served as a form of storytelling. The gatefold sleeves of albums like The Who's Tommy and The Rolling Stones' Sticky Fingers unfolded like a book, offering listeners an immersive experience. The artwork, lyrics, and liner notes combined to create a complete package that invited exploration, fostering a sense of discovery with every listen.
Album art makes for great wall art, like this framed lithograph of the album cover of The Who's Tommy album
Album art also had the power to provoke thought and challenge conventions. The punk movement, with its raw and confrontational music, produced album covers like the Sex Pistols' Never Mind the Bollocks, Here's the Sex Pistols – a stark and explicit statement that mirrored the band's attitude. The punk aesthetic influenced a generation of artists who used album covers as a platform for social commentary and political critique.
Even into the 90s album art continued to be creative with many examples from Nirvana's iconic Nevermind album cover photo, to the Smashing Pumpkins dreamy art on many of its' covers, to Green Day's comic book-inspired art for their debut Dookie, which was drawn by Richie Bucher. He created a world paying homage to the Bay Area punk scene that the band comes from:
Green Day's 1998 album Dookie featured a hand drawn, comic-style world drawn by Richie Bucher
While album art flourished for decades, the rise of digital music in the late 20th century brought about its gradual decline. As physical formats like vinyl records and CDs gave way to MP3s and streaming services, album art shrank to the size of a thumbnail on a computer or smartphone screen. The intricate details and tactile pleasures of holding a physical album in your hands were lost in the transition. Moreover, the shift to digital music consumption brought with it the temptation to prioritize individual tracks over entire albums. With playlists and shuffle modes dominating our listening habits, the concept of the "album" as a cohesive work of art has been eroded. This change in consumption patterns has further diminished the importance of album art as a storytelling medium.
However, all hope is not lost for the art of album art. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in vinyl records and a renewed appreciation for the tactile and visual aspects of music. Many artists and record labels are investing in high-quality packaging and artwork to entice collectors and music lovers.
Furthermore, artists continue to push the boundaries of album art in the digital age. They utilize social media platforms and interactive websites to create immersive visual experiences that complement their music. In some cases, the internet has become a canvas for album art, offering endless possibilities for creativity. Artist websites often contain art designed to accompany their tracks and albums.
In the end, the lost art of album art is simply a reflection of the changing landscape of the music industry. While digital technology has altered the way we consume music, it hasn't completely extinguished the flame of creativity that album art represents. As long as musicians and artists continue to collaborate and find new ways to captivate their audiences visually, album art will remain a vital and evolving aspect of the music world.
But there's still nothing like holding that 12x12-inch LP jacket in your hands...
While we don't always have a large selection, check out the latest album art items at MusicGoldmine here.
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]]>Just a couple of highlights from this week in music history!
AUG 1: Happy birthday to Joe Elliott, born today in 1959! Elliott is the lead vocalist and primary songwriter of the iconic British rock band Def Leppard. He co-founded the band in 1977. With his distinctive raspy yet melodic voice, Elliott has been a driving force behind Def Leppard's success, helping them achieve global fame with albums like "Pyromania" and "Hysteria." Known for their arena-filling anthems and enduring hits, Def Leppard's music has left an indelible mark on the rock genre. Joe Elliott's dynamic stage presence and songwriting abilities have solidified his status as a rock legend, captivating audiences for decades. *Extra credit points if you know who Joe is on stage with in the picture???*
AUG 8: Happy birthday to Rikki Rockett of Poison, born today in 1961. His dynamic drumming was pivotal in shaping the band's signature sound. Alongside hits like "Every Rose Has Its Thorn," Rockett's rhythmic prowess and showmanship contributed to Poison's success. With his distinctive appearance and contributions, Rikki Rockett remains a notable figure in the history of glam metal, leaving an indelible mark on the music scene of that era.
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The history of top 10 record charts is a fascinating journey that reflects the evolution of the music industry, changing tastes, and technological advancements. These charts have provided insights into the popularity of songs and artists, shaping the way we consume and appreciate music.
The concept of record charts dates to the early 20th century when sheet music sales were used to gauge the popularity of songs. However, it wasn't until the 1940s that the modern top 10 record chart gained prominence.
One of the earliest iconic record charts was the "Top 10 Juke Box Records," introduced in 1944 by Billboard. It highlighted the songs that were most played on jukeboxes, offering a glimpse into public music preferences.
Charts published by publications from Billboard, Cashbox and Record World in the United States played a pivotal role in the chart evolution that followed.
The advent of television brought about shows like American Bandstand, hosted by Dick Clark, which was launched in 1957 and became a network TV staple. The production showcased the top songs and invited artists to perform, further influencing the charts.
The syndicated radio series American Top 40 hosted by Casey Kasem, which began airing in 1970, helped cement Billboard's dominance as the go-to chart for the industry since the show exclusively used their chart.
Decca Records artist Ricky Nelson scored the first Billboard #1 hit on the publication's newly launched Hot 100 chart
The Billboard Hot 100, which was originally launched in 1958, revolutionized the music industry by incorporating radio airplay and record sales to determine chart positions. The first #1 song of this new Hot 100 chart was "Poor Little Fool" by Ricky Nelson, which reached the top spot on August 4, 1958.
In the beginning, 45 single sales were weighted more heavily than radio airplay since most consumers of music bought singles and it was thought to better reflect consumer preferences than, for example, requests made to radio DJ to hear a song on the radio. Later in the 60s, as more music was purchased in the album format and less singles were released, radio airplay was weighted more heavily.
The 1960s marked a significant era for top 10 record charts. The British invasion led by bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones reshaped the global music landscape. Their dominance on the charts demonstrated the power of youth culture and how it could sway musical trends. This era also saw the rise of Motown, which predominantly released Soul and R&B music that increasingly landed on mainstream charts.
On February 1, 1964, the Beatles topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart for seven weeks with "I Want To Hold Your Hand", which also became the #1 song that year
As the music industry diversified, so did the charts. Genre-specific charts began to emerge, catering to the growing popularity of rock, pop, R&B, country, and other genres. The advent of digital technology in the late 20th century brought about further changes. The introduction of digital downloads and later, streaming services, had a profound impact on chart methodology, reflecting the changing methods of music consumption.
One rule established from the beginning of the Hot 100 chart’s history required that a track had to be released as a single to be included. However, that requirement was eliminated on December 5, 1998, allowing album cuts to appear on the chart. Thereafter the chart became a “songs” chart rather than “singles” chart. This was due to a trend in the 1990s that record labels would promote songs to radio without ever releasing them as singles.
Examples of songs that became #1 hits on radio airplay charts in the 90s that were never released as singles -- thus barring them from appearing on the Hot 100 -- include The Rembrandts 1995 song "I'll Be There for You", the 1996 No Doubt hit from No Doubt "Don't Speak", Natalie Imbruglia’s "Torn" in 1997, and the Goo Goo Dolls song "Iris" in 1998.
Starting in the 1980s, Billboard Hot 100 chart excerpts would sometimes be included in official RIAA awards, like on this one for The Beach Boys "Kokomo"
Starting on February 12, 2005, the tracking of paid digital downloads from such Internet services as iTunes, Musicmatch, Rhapsody, and others was included as part of the formula determining chart positions of tracks.
On August 11, 2007, Billboard began incorporating weekly data from streaming media and on-demand services into the Hot 100. At first this included AOL Music and Yahoo! Music, while later streaming data from Spotify and YouTube, which have become two of the most dominant platforms for consumers to stream music, also became part of the mix.
This multidimensional approach has worked over the years to provide a comprehensive view of a song's popularity.
Award plaques that highlight Billboard chart accomplishments are also popular with collectors, like this one for Sophie B. Hawkins' 1995 hit "As I Lay Me Down"
Moving into the 21st century, charts have become more dynamic and responsive due to the immediacy of online sources of music downloading and listening. The rise of social media platforms, such as YouTube and TikTok, has provided a new way for songs to gain popularity rapidly. Viral challenges and dance trends can propel songs to the top of the charts in a matter of weeks, showcasing the ever-evolving nature of music trends.
The global nature of music consumption also led to the emergence of international record charts. The "Global 200" and "Global Excluding U.S." charts by Billboard reflect the worldwide popularity of songs, emphasizing the interconnectedness of music across borders.
Despite their enduring popularity, top 10 record charts have faced criticism for potentially limiting musical diversity and creativity. Some argue that the focus on chart performance might overshadow the artistic value of music, encouraging a formulaic approach to songwriting and production.
In recent years, debates have arisen regarding the accuracy of chart data due to practices like streaming manipulation. As the music industry adapts to these challenges, chart methodologies continue to evolve to ensure fair representation of a song's popularity.
Regardless the criticisms that chart creation methodologies have faced over the years, which artists have consistently come out on top of the heap? At least Hot 100 chart-wise, here are the top ten Hot 100 charting artists of all time, calculated from data covering the period from 1958 to 2021 according to Billboard:
1. The BeatlesThe history of top 10 record charts showcases the evolution of the music industry, from early sheet music sales to the digital streaming era. These charts have played a significant role in shaping music trends, reflecting changing tastes, technological advancements, and cultural shifts.
While they provide valuable insights into the popularity of songs and artists, they also raise questions about the balance between commercial success and artistic value in the ever-changing landscape of the music world. The fact remains, however, that they have been used for decades by the music industry to measure the marketplace success of recorded music.
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