RIAA Gold Album Award for The B-52's debut album. Released on July 6, 1979, the album was certified Gold by the RIAA on Nov. 18, 1980 for 500,000 copies sold.
The debut from the group included classic B-52's hits such as "Rock Lobster" (which became the group's first Billboard Hot 100 hit, peaking at #56), "Planet Claire", and "Dance This Mess Around". The album reached #59 on the Billboard Top LPs chart and charted in Australia and New Zealand as well. By 1986 the album was certified Platinum by the RIAA for one million copies sold*
Includes MusicGoldmine.com Letter Of Authenticity
Item Highlights:
- RIAA Gold Album award
- In Good to VG condition
- Award made in 1980
- Presented to recording studio
- All original
- Known as a "floater" award because the components appear to "float" above the matte, they were made from 1975-1981
- RIAA floater awards numbered only 25-50 plaques worldwide for any given single/album
- Award measures approx. 17" x 21"
- Great collectors item for any B-52's fan
- FREE insured shipping to continental U.S.
- International shipping available
Detailed Item Description: This is RIAA Gold Album award was manufactured in 1980, making it about 45 years old. It is presented to Compass Point Studios, Nassau, Bahamas, where the album was recorded.
It is in Good to VG condition with heavy wear on the frame (probably caused by humidity in the Bahamas), scratches on the plexiglass, fading of the matte, and a couple of minor spots on the label. The award has its' original back but it has been taped on three sides. The construction of the award combined with manufacturer adhesive residue present on the backing paper in the correct size, shape and location indicate that the award was made by the New York Frame & Picture Co.
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Notes on the condition of all vintage RIAA awards: 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 20 to 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