RIAA Gold white matte award for James Brown album The Payback. This album was released in December 1973 and certified Gold by the RIAA on March 18, 1974 for one million dollars worth sold. It became the Godfather of Soul's only Gold record for a studio album, despite an iconic career which produced 17 #1 singles on the Billboard R&B charts.
This was the 39th studio effort from James Brown (1933-2006) and the title track from the album became a #1 Billboard R&B Chart hit. Another track, "Stone to the Bone", peaked at #4 on the R&B chart. The album itself reached #34 on the Billboard Top 200 Albums chart. See image above for the RIAA sales certification of this album*.
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Item Highlights:
- RIAA Gold LP award with white matte, gold disc, album miniature, and gold info plate
- In VG condition with some typical scratches and mars on the frame
- A first presentation award from 1974
- Presented to industry executive
- Original back with manufacturer sticker
- "White matte" awards (obviously so-named due to the white matte used) were made from from 1964-1974/early 1975
- RIAA white matte awards numbered only 5-25 plaques worldwide for any given single/album
- Award measures approx. 17" x 21"
- Great, rare collector's item for any James Brown fan
- FREE insured shipping to continental U.S.
- International shipping available
Detailed Item Description: This RIAA Gold LP award must have been made around 1974 making it 48 years old. The award is presented to Winston "Buzz" Willis, who was Sr. VP at Polydor during James Brown's time at the label.
It is in Very Good condition, considering its age with a few typical mars and scratches on the frame. The award has its' orginal backing paper with some tears which have been taped to help prevent dust intrusion and has its' original New York Frame & Picture Co. manufacturer sticker.
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Notes on the condition of all vintage RIAA awards like this one: Please do not buy this item if you want a brand new piece of memorabilia. These are historical artifacts from the year they were produced. As a result they may show signs of wear. Frankly, if you see a 50-year-old award purported to be in 100% perfect condition, it might be too good to be true. After all, an antique should have "good' wear. If not, you might want to question the piece.
As to where they came from, they could have been displayed in record label offices, recording studios, artist manager's offices, radio stations, private collector's homes and yes, of course, possibly the artist's or songwriter's home. Typically, we don't know all the places they may have been over the years other than what we've stated in the description.
Finally, a word on photos: Our photos are zoomable so you can get a very good look. Do let us know if you want photos of any other details on our pieces and we'll be happy to provide.
*RIAA sales data source: RIAA.com