On April 7th rap legend Tupac Shakur will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Brooklyn, New York. On the same day and only a few blocks away, a large selection of Tupac’s lyrics, song lists, clothing, and jewelry will be offered in the first “Black History Auction” held specifically to honor the achievements and contributions of African-Americans. Over 300 items will be sold live by auctioneers Alexander Historical Auctions at The Dumbo Loft, 155 Water St., Brooklyn, New York starting at 2:00 PM.
Offered for sale will be more than three dozen items from the legendary artist, including: 14 sets of lyrics, including “Catchin’ Feelins,” “Wonda Why They Call U Bitch” and “I Ain’t Mad At Cha”; his track list and a master recording for “All Eyez On Me”; his first music contract; contracts made to secure bail money; and his prison identification. Personal items include Tupac’s signed Koran, Rolls Royce license plates, his trademark nose and ear studs, screen-worn clothing, and jewelry, including a bullet-struck medallion from his fatal 1996 shooting.
Also being offered is a signed photo of Dr. Martin Luther King with a quote from the Constitution: “…all men are created equal…” along with a letter by King mentioning “Jackson,” Thurgood Marshall, and the Freedom Riders, and an important signed copy of his “Stride Toward Freedom.” Malcolm X is represented in a letter from prison discussing the “blackness” of a man, and several other important items. From President Barack Obama is a 2012 NCAA “Final Four” leader board, which appeared on ESPN, signed at the center. Boxer Muhammad Ali is represented in several lots, including a signed print of his painting showing a victory in the ring, adding his famous “Float like a butterfly” quote and a print of a painting later “censored” by the U.N.