MJ’s handwritten lyrics, award auctioned
Lyrics to Michael Jackson’s chart-topping “Billie Jean” sell for more than $40,000.
Following his death in 2009, Michael Jackson’s memorabilia has raked in millions of dollars worldwide. Not only is his estate resting on a $1 billion payback, but sales of Jackson’s music – including albums, digital track downloads, ringtones and other royalties, are still going strong. Michael Jackson collectibles were also a big success at the Sports Legends/Music Icons Auction held on June 23 and 24 at the Julien’s Auctions Gallery in Beverly Hills, California.
The handwritten lyrics to Jackson’s hit single, “Billie Jean” were sold for $40,625 while a 1984 Video Music Award won by the late singer brought in $50,000. The auction also featured a pair of black loafers signed by Michael Jackson that sold for $ 18,750.
“Billie Jean”, first released in 1983, was the second single of Jackson’s sixth solo album, “Thriller” and helped propel it to the status of the best-selling album of all time. Known for its distinctive bass lines and Jackson’s unique vocal hiccups, Jackson stated that the song was based on a bunch of groupies that trailed after him and his brothers while they were part of The Jackson 5.
The auction, held on the eve of the three-year anniversary of the King of Pop’s death, featured over 800 iconic pieces of music and sports memorabilia. Other items auctioned off at the two-day event included negligee worn by Madonna during her “Blonde Ambition” tour, which sold for $34,375 and an undergarment she wore on stage which nabbed $13,750. Elvis Presley, Whitney Houston and John Lennon items also proved to be big sellers.
Published In The Express Tribune, June 28th, 2012.
A slideshow of pictures for Michael Jackson can be seen here.