Hanging balls on cover of Fleetwood Mac’s ‘Rumours’ sell for £100,000
The "lavatory chains" were worn by Mick Fleetwood on the cover art of the 1977 record
Two wooden hanging balls worn by Fleetwood Mac drummer Mick Fleetwood on the cover of the band’s hit 1977 album ‘Rumours’ have sold at auction for $128,000 (£105,000).
The famous hanging balls went up for sale amongst other Fleetwood Mac memorabilia last weekend, just days after the passing of band member Christine McVie.
‘Fleetwood Mac: Property From the Lives and Careers of Christine McVie, John McVie, and Mick Fleetwood’ took place on December 3 and 4 via Julien’s Auctions in Beverly Hills.
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The wooden balls, which are actually “lavatory chains” according to Rolling Stone, appeared on the cover of the iconic 1977-released ‘Rumours’, allegedly in a tribute to the band’s earlier days as a “spur-of-the-moment boyish prank”.
Other items that went under the hammer included instruments, antiques, artefacts, touring gear, furniture, and more. The collection was described as a “celebration of the iconic band”, featuring over 50 items.
Speaking on the auction, auction director Martin Nolan said: “Julien’s Auctions is honoured to offer this exceptional collection of music history coming directly from the legendary three members of one of the most influential and rock and roll bands of all time.”
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“These pieces from their storied five-decade career represent the mystique and magic of Christine McVie, John McVie and Mick Fleetwood, whose renowned musicianship, songwriting, vocal harmonies and camaraderie, have given the world a lifetime of illustrious performances.”
A portion of the profits made at the auction will go toward MusiCares Foundation, a non-profit organisation providing health, financial, and rehabilitation resources for those in music.
McVie, Fleetwood Mac singer-songwriter, keyboardist, and longstanding member, passed away on November 30 after suffering a short illness. McVie performed alongside the group for some 28 years of her career.
Gemma Ross is Mixmag's Editorial Assistant, follow her on Twitter