8557 - Michael Jackson and The Jacksons Signed Drumhead

Michael Jackson and The Jacksons Signed Drumhead Clear Ludwig WeatherMaster drumhead, 18.5″ in diameter, signed in black felt tip by all five performing members of the Jacksons: “Thanks Alot, Love, Randy Jackson,” “Best of luck, Love, Marlon Jackson,” “Love, Michael Jackson 79,” “Tito Jackson, Love + Peace, The Jacksons,” and “Jackie Jackson.” The center bears collector’s notations dated “5-6-79,” and at the top edge, “Jacksonville.” Michael’s felt tip signature is traced over an earlier signature attempt in ballpoint. According to the consignor, who witnessed the signing, Michael first signed in ballpoint because no marker was at hand, then went back over the same area once one was produced. The head retains its original dampening pad of folded material and black tape, made by the drum crew and affixed at upper left. In very good condition, with expected signs of heavy use, including a puncture to the bottom area. The Jacksons played the Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Coliseum on May 6, 1979, during the North American portion of their Destiny World Tour, launched in support of their 1978 album Destiny. The brothers would pause touring the following month as Michael completed work on Off the Wall, the solo album that transformed his career when it arrived that August. From the collection of a Jacksonville, Florida, limousine operator who provided transportation for touring artists throughout North Florida and southern Georgia in the late 1970s and early 1980s; he often obtained used drumheads from the bands’ touring crews and had the members sign them.