BOSTON, MASS.- RR Auction's Marvels of Modern Music sale is set to captivate music enthusiasts with an impressive collection of music memorabilia hitting the auction block. Topping the list of extraordinary items is none other than Dee Dee Ramone's Iconic Stage-Worn Leather Jacket, a cherished symbol of punk rock history. This leather jacket, worn by the legendary Ramones bassist during his electrifying performances, stands as a testament to the rebellious spirit that defined the band's revolutionary sound.
Having acquired the jacket in 1985, Dee Dee Ramone swiftly transformed it into his battle armor for Ramones concerts. From the explosive chords of "Blitzkrieg Bop" to the frenzied energy of "I Wanna Be Sedated," this iconic garment bore witness to the Ramones' groundbreaking sonic assaults. After Dee Dee's final show in July 1989, the jacket found its place among the band's treasured touring wardrobe, awaiting its next chapter.
Enter CJ Ramone, the successor to Dee Dee's bassist throne and a devoted torchbearer of the Ramones' legacy. Embracing his role with unmatched fervor, CJ took on the mantle of the leather jacket. As he graced the stage for his inaugural Ramones live performance, it was evident that a new era in punk rock history was unfolding. Tour after tour, CJ channeled the essence of the Ramones through this hallowed artifact, encapsulating the raw power and frenetic spirit that defined the band's unparalleled musical legacy.
This historic leather jacket, adorned with the autographs of both Dee Dee and CJ, serves as a testament to the punk rock ethos. Its snap-down lapels, shoulder epaulets, zippered sleeve cuffs, and side pockets exude a sense of defiance, while the U.S. Air Force cap insignia on the right lapel and U.S. Army captain rank pins on the epaulets, added by CJ Ramone himself, elevate this artifact to an emblem of punk rock rebellion.
Renowned artist Andrew D. Gore, now the consignor of this remarkable piece, acquired the jacket directly from CJ Ramone upon the band's retirement, further enriching its storied history.
In addition to the iconic Ramones leather jacket, the Marvels of Modern Music auction boasts a myriad of extraordinary items that will quicken the pulse of punk rock enthusiasts. Among the nearly 50 Ramones lots, one can find Johnny Ramone's signed and rehearsal-used blue Mosrite electric guitar, a testament to his distinctive sound and style. Furthermore, the auction presents a 36-foot-long Arturo Vega hand-painted stage backdrop from the Adios Amigos Tour, a breathtaking piece that adorned countless Ramones performances, serving as the visual backdrop to their punk rock anthems.
Punk Art also takes center stage at the auction, featuring an impressive Gold-and-Silver Painting of Punk Icon Johnny Ramone by Boston-based artist Giovanni DeCunto. Measuring an impressive 42 inches by 62 inches, DeCunto's acrylic masterpiece adorned with gold and silver leaf on canvas pays tribute to one of Johnny Ramone's favorite live performances and celebrates his pivotal role in pioneering the punk movement.
DeCunto's striking portrait captures Johnny Ramone strumming his universally recognizable guitar, emanating the distinctive sounds that have enraptured fans for decades. The artist employs a background of gold and silver, symbolizing the guitarist's enduring legacy. Amidst a vibrant palette of colors, Johnny's bold black and white guitar stands out, akin to a gem glistening in an empty cave. DeCunto's choice of colors holds profound significance, emphasizing the guitar's pivotal role in Johnny's career as a form of expression beyond words, commanding the viewer's attention.
Among the other punk rock artworks presented is Andrew D. Gore's stained glass art series 'Church of Punk Rock,' that includes a Nirvana Original 'Kurt Cobain / Nevermind' Stained Glass Hanging piece. Additionally a design inspired by the iconic front cover of The Clash album London Calling. The artwork contains soldered pieces of white, black, gray, and clear glass that create a striking portrayal of Paul Simonon smashing down his Fender Precision Bass, an image set against a large five-point star. Simonon famously smashed his bass against the stage at the Palladium in New York City on September 20, 1979, out of frustration when he learned that the bouncers at the concert would not allow the audience members to stand up out of their seats.
Among other featured lots in the music-themed auction is Prince's demo tape that got him his first multi-year, million-dollar record contract from the estate of the Warner Bros. Records executive who signed him is up for bid at auction. It's not just a demo tape; it's the Prince demo tape that got him signed. This demo tape, recorded on reel-to-reel in 1976, contains versions of three Prince originals and serves as a testament to his raw talent and unmatched creativity. Accompanied by an array of fascinating items, including a custom-made box and a letter of provenance, this auction presents a unique opportunity to own a piece of music history. The story surrounding the tape's discovery and the role it played in Prince's rise to stardom is truly captivating.
In addition to Prince's legendary demo tape, among the other highly coveted Prince items that hold immense historical and sentimental value. Among these cherished artifacts is Prince's stage-worn Purple Rain Tour lace glove, Prince's "The Black Album," an incredibly rare first pressing that remains sealed to this day, and Prince's graffiti bridge-era worn 'Love Me' cufflinks.
The Marvels of Modern Music auction, presented by RR Auction, is currently underway and will conclude on June 22.
