This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/6/2009
In this one-page handwritten letter, Lennon lets his backing band, “Elephants Memory,” know that their services are no longer required. Having hired the New York City-based band to support him during John and Yoko’s week-long stint on The Mike Douglas Show in February ’72, the group also goes into the studio with him the next month; the band appeared on one of the two records that comprised his “Sometime in New York City” album. On August 30, they took the stage with Lennon & Ono for the “One to One” concert at Madison Square Garden. A September 6 appearance on the annual Jerry Lewis Telethon marked the group’s final appearance with Lennon. The text reads: "Dear Elephants, It’s costing too much bread to keep you on a retainer and we have no plans to tour or anything ’money making!’ I hope you enjoyed yourselves (we did) Your names known enough now to keep you going. So we’ll give you till -----. Men your on your own. See you round, love John & Yoko ps.. Apple can deal with me equipment, royalties, etc." Written in bold black felt tip pen. The 8.5" x 11” sheet of unlined paper is folded in eighths for mailing. The letter is magnificently framed to 23" x 25” with custom calligraphy chronicling the group’s history with Lennon. There are a few scuffs and dings to the frame. Very good condition. Comes with letter from Beatles handwriting expert Frank Caiazzo. Estimate: $12,000 - $14,000.