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.
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It’s unfortunate that we live in a society which tears apart an artist’s life while they’re alive and makes a martyr of them after their death. Hopefully Michael is resting more peacefully than he lived, under the intense heat of the media. Who was the man in the mirror and behind the television screens? I addressed MJ’s legacy with a portrait on my artist’s blog at http://dregstudiosart.blogspot.com/2011/06/in-memoriam-king-of-pop.html Drop by and let me know how his music affected you. While you’re there, we’ve posted the Top 10 music videos of All Time from the King of Pop!