[78-L] Frank Wilson 45 sells for almost $40K

[soundthink at aol.com]

There was a scan of the record label and sleeve attached to this item, but, alas, 78-L does not permit these. I'd like for Ron to approve an address where 78-L members can post object images of items of interest. It certainly would be pertinent to this list. However, only records and vintage photographs should be allowed. We should not get into the habit of posting those silly photographs of billboards and cutesy shots of pets in uncompromising poses on our site.

Cary Ginell

Frank Wilson 45 fetches nearly $40,000


Posted by peter

No, it didn't bring in the $100,000 that some thought it might, but a copy of the 45 of Frank Wilson's "Do I Love You" — a legend in Northern Soul circles — did set a record, going for more than £25K. In dollars, the total amount approaches $40,000, making it the world's most expensive record.

Sold by Kenny Burrell, this version is one of only two surviving copies of Wilson's record known to exist — and it's the only one in acceptable playing condition. Motown kingpin Berry Gordy originally ordered the record destroyed. 

As the story goes, Wilson, who became a producer for Motown, was hired in late 1965 to head up the label's West Coast operation in Los Angeles. The deal was contingent upon Wilson giving up his recording and performing career. But Wilson recorded a demo of "Do I Love You." Upon finding out, Berry gave the order to have it wiped off the face of the earth. But, two copies escaped.

U.K. record dealer John 
Manship, who specializes in Northern Soul rarities, held the auction for Burrell's record. The total amount of the sale, which started in the middle of March and ran to April 29, was £25,742. 

Look for more on the sale in the June 5 edition of Goldmine.

For more on the record-breaking deal, visit www.raresoulman.co.uk.