This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/21/2021
Albert Grossman's signed original visa application form for his stay in Japan for two weeks, accompanied by a small black and white original passport photograph and an original December 7, 1981 file copy letter from fourth Floor Music, Inc. to the Consulate General of Japan regarding his request for a short term commercial visa. This piece comes straight from the Albert Grossman Collection. Grossman is one of the most well-known and successful managers in music history, and his legacy in the music industry is on-par with the legendary acts he worked with. Grossman predominantly worked in the Folk and Rock and Roll scene, and managed stars such as Bob Dylan, Janis Joplin, Odetta, the Band, Gordon Lightfoot, Ian & Sylvia, and Peter, Paul, and Mary.
Grossman moved into the club business in the 1950s and had an idea of a “listening room” to help touring artists have a more authentic experience with club goers. As he got more involved in the live shows at his venue, he began managing bands he worked with and grew his reputation by assembling the group Peter, Paul, and Mary in 1961. In 1962, Grossman signed Dylan in what was the start of a friendship that shaped music history. Grossman had Dylan stay in his Woodstock home — where Dylan shot the album cover for “Bringing It All Back Home” — and Dylan loved the area so much he bought a home there. Grossman was an aggressive negotiator with his artists, but helped them achieve great success. He charged a 25% commission as opposed to the industry standard of 15%, and famously said, “Every time you talk to me you're ten percent smarter than before. So I just add ten percent on to what all the dummies charge for nothing”. Good condition with creasing and some wear., the visa application has a two inch tear at the top. Comes with a Gotta Have Rock & Roll Certificate of Authenticity.