This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/7/2018
Hey Berry, what's that you've got behind your back there in that photo? Offered here is a framed display featuring cancelled bank checks, signed by legendary founding members of the Allman Brothers Band Duane Allman and Berry Oakley. The band formed in 1969 after Duane, an established session guitarist who had recorded with Aretha Franklin, Wilson Pickett and King Curtis, reconvened with his brother Gregg, who had been in California working out contractual obligations with Liberty Records. The lineup featured two drummers, Butch Trucks and Jai Johanny "Jaimoe" Johanson, and was rounded out by lead guitarist Dickie Betts and bassist Raymond Berry Oakley. Tragically, Duane was killed in a motorcycle accident in Macon, Georgia in October of 1971, and Oakley suffered the same fate-in nearly the same spot- just over a year later. As a result of their untimely deaths, both musician's signatures are very difficult, especially in bank check form. Both checks offered here are drawn on the Allman Brothers Band General Account from the People's Bank of Macon, Georgia. Berry Oakley's check is dated 8/8/1970, and is made out to Lipham Music Company for one hundred dollars. Duane's check is most interesting, made out to Amy Barnes for $145 and dated 10/22/1970. What makes it interesting and special, however, is the memo line, where following the word "For" he has written "Debts (Coke)." Now, Duane is pictured here holding a Coca-Cola in his hand, so that's certainly the "Coke" he is referring to, correct? Wait, what was that you're hiding behind your back again, there, Berry? (Photo credited to Carter Tomassi, backstage in Atlanta, July 4, 1971) ALOA from JSA.