This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/6/2008
This never-before-circulated 65-minute audio cassette, formerly the property of WPLJ disc jockey Howard Smith, documents the backstage activity that transpired primarily between John Lennon, Yoko Ono and Frank Zappa prior to the Mothers of Invention's Fillmore East concert of June 6, 1971 (which included a surprise guest appearance by Lennon and Ono). After being interviewed by Smith earlier in the day, the Lennons were persuaded to perform that evening at the insistence of Andy Warhol. Heard on this one-of-a-kind tape is Lennon singing and playing guitar with Zappa on extended 12-bar bluesimprovisations; some segue into "Good Rockin' Tonight/Mystery Train"and "Money." Ono can also be heard in the background. The guitar riff from Abbey Road's "I Want You (She's So Heavy)" is also heard, presumably being played by Zappa. Lennon and Zappa are also heard discussing and playing guitar parts that will be employed during the show. Banter and conversation are interspersed throughout. The quality of the recording is uneven, with vocals sometimes being obscured by the guitars. This original tape is offered as a collector's item only, and does not come with copyright privileges. Estimate $2,000-$4,000.