A handwritten letter from John Lennon recommending a new band to Eric Clapton is to be auctioned.
The eight-page letter, dated September 29, 1971, was a draft of the final version sent to Clapton that same year. helmsman European International Autograph Auction SLThe letter will be auctioned on December 5 and is expected to sell for €100,000 to €150,000 (approximately US$104,000 to US$157,000). Bidding registration is now open.
The contents of the letter show the beginning of an interesting chapter in the story of rock and roll, with Lennon asking Clapton to form a new band.
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“As you must know by now, Yoko and I think very highly of your music and yourself, and always have,” the letter read. Lennon continued, speaking of Clapton’s dark period at the time, which was marred by a heroin addiction and a withdrawal from public appearances.
“Eric, I know I can bring something great to the table, and in fact it’s evident in your music,” Lennon added. “I hope we all display the same greatness that I know will happen if/when we come together.”
The letter ultimately brought up the idea of Clapton performing as part of a future band that would include former Plastic Ono members Klaus Wollmann, Jim Keltner, Nicky Hopkins and Phil Spector. “And of course you!!! We keep this decision in mind as soon as we make it,” it continued.
At the time of writing, Clapton had previously performed as a member of Plastic Ono, a member of the band’s 1969 iteration from September to December.
“Please have no fear, I understand paranoia very well,” Lennon added at the end of his letter, predictably hesitant. “I think it can only be good for you to work with people who love you and respect you, and that comes from all of us.”
Ultimately, Clapton turned down Lennon’s offer to join the fledgling Superstars.
A draft of the letter also included numerous corrections and edits, though it’s unclear what the final version sent to Clapton looked like. However, this is not the first time the letter has been auctioned, as a 2012 auction estimated the letter to fetch a total of $30,000.
