Ad Category Above Title [D:1440×400 M:1440×400]

gafencu Shop

gafencu  app

Ad Category Sidebar [D:300×300 M:300×300]

Ad Video Category Above Title

At a June preview of the Freddie Mercury collection that will shortly be sold by Sotheby’s, the media forms a semicircle around a young woman holding aloft the left shoe of a pair of white high-top sneakers. “These are the shoes Freddie may have performed in at the Live Aid Concert in 1985,” says Gabriel Heaton, a Specialist in the Books and Manuscripts department of the auction house, before clarifying: “However, as there are other pairs which are similar, careful checking indicates that we cannot be certain these are ones used in the Live Aid Concert.”


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/A_pair_of_Adidas_high_top_sneakers_est._3000_-_500_rgb-1024x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-77104" width="750" height="750" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/A_pair_of_Adidas_high_top_sneakers_est._3000_-_500_rgb-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/A_pair_of_Adidas_high_top_sneakers_est._3000_-_500_rgb-280x280.jpg 280w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/A_pair_of_Adidas_high_top_sneakers_est._3000_-_500_rgb-768x768.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/A_pair_of_Adidas_high_top_sneakers_est._3000_-_500_rgb-1536x1536.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/A_pair_of_Adidas_high_top_sneakers_est._3000_-_500_rgb-2048x2048.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/A_pair_of_Adidas_high_top_sneakers_est._3000_-_500_rgb-200x200.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/A_pair_of_Adidas_high_top_sneakers_est._3000_-_500_rgb-800x800.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/A_pair_of_Adidas_high_top_sneakers_est._3000_-_500_rgb-100x100.jpg 100w" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" /></figure></div>


The fact that these Adidas shoes were worn by the flamboyant Queen frontman during the band’s mid-80s tours is enough, though, to set the room abuzz with excitement. Of all the items on display during the media tour, it is a simple pair of shoes within touching distance that generates the most interest.



<div style="height:15px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>



As the ritual of media photo-taking gets underway, there is an almost spiritual, slightly unworldly moment in time, when Freddie himself seems close, like he is being reincarnated in a ghostly apparition. He wore these shoes as he held the audience in the palm of his hand during his mid-80s pomp when he knew his time was short, and every time he stepped onto the stage he was determined to put on the show of his life. Mercury loved the freedom of movement and comfort the high-tops brought him as he strutted, preened and sang like an angel. These sports shoes seem to represent the physical embodiment of a force of nature and everyone in the room wants a part of it.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Mercury Rising</h3>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="768" height="511" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Mick_Rock_David_Bowie_and_Mick_Ronson_Lunch_on_Tra_rgb.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-77115" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Mick_Rock_David_Bowie_and_Mick_Ronson_Lunch_on_Tra_rgb.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Mick_Rock_David_Bowie_and_Mick_Ronson_Lunch_on_Tra_rgb-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Mick_Rock_David_Bowie_and_Mick_Ronson_Lunch_on_Tra_rgb-200x133.jpg 200w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


The Adidas footwear was among 20 highlights from the collection of the flamboyant rock idol showcased in Hong Kong before a series of dedicated auctions to be held at Sotheby’s London from 4 August (online) and during 6-8 September 2023 (live). A portion of the six ‘Freddie Mercury: A World of His Own’ sales will be donated to the Mercury Phoenix Trust – an Aids charity founded by the band after the singer’s death in 1991 – and the Elton John Aids Foundation.


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="500" height="625" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Freddie_MercuryCus_crown_est._30000_-_40000_1_p_cl_rgb.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-77106" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Freddie_MercuryCus_crown_est._30000_-_40000_1_p_cl_rgb.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Freddie_MercuryCus_crown_est._30000_-_40000_1_p_cl_rgb-224x280.jpg 224w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Freddie_MercuryCus_crown_est._30000_-_40000_1_p_cl_rgb-200x250.jpg 200w" sizes="(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></figure></div>


Part of the fascination with Freddie Mercury is that he was a complex man with multiple personalities. Heaton talks of how reserved he was, but of how he also loved to hold lavish parties. He points to Mercury’s iconic stage crown thought to be loosely modelled on the coronation crown of St Edward; a life-size picture of the maestro wearing it in his full regal attire forms a striking backdrop. The crown is estimated to sell for £30,000-£40,000 (about HK$300,000-$400,000), and as Heaton notes, Mercury donned it for the final rendition of God Save The Queen at the end of his last performance, at Knebworth Park in Hertfordshire, UK, on 9 August 1986, in front of a crowd of more than 120,000.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Rhapsody Revelations</h3>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="768" height="594" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Freddie21_p_rgb.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-77107" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Freddie21_p_rgb.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Freddie21_p_rgb-362x280.jpg 362w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Freddie21_p_rgb-200x155.jpg 200w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


The collection previewed in Hong Kong included handwritten working drafts of lyrics to some of his most famous songs. An early draft for Bohemian Rhapsody, the third best-selling UK single of all time, is written in black and blue ballpoint pen and pencil on stationery from the now defunct British Midlands Airways.


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="500" height="750" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Freddie3_p_rgb.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-77108" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Freddie3_p_rgb.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Freddie3_p_rgb-187x280.jpg 187w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Freddie3_p_rgb-200x300.jpg 200w" sizes="(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></figure></div>


This is the song that changed everything for Queen, when the “volcano erupted”, as Mercury put it, and these lyrics are estimated at £800,000-£1.2 million. The page on display (from 15 in total) indicates that he originally planned to call it ‘Mongolian Rhapsody’ – ‘Mongolian’ is crossed out and replaced with the word ‘Bohemian’ – rhythmically similar but with a different resonance, as Heaton points out. The sheets reveal detailed notes on harmonies and the painstaking drafting and redrafting by a man who was modest about his composition process.



<div style="height:15px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>



“In these pages we see Freddie Mercury wrestling in grand operatic terms with profound themes – sin, damnation, stoic acceptance – and witness the great efforts he goes to pinpointing precisely the right words to embody these emotions, and to create the most extraordinary narrative,” says Heaton.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Songs Going for a High</h3>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="500" height="708" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Freddie5_p_rgb.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-77109" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Freddie5_p_rgb.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Freddie5_p_rgb-198x280.jpg 198w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Freddie5_p_rgb-200x283.jpg 200w" sizes="(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></figure></div>


According to the expert, this type of memorabilia often generates huge interest. “The highest prices tend to be for original handwritten lyrics and also musical instruments when they have a significant playing history with a great musician,” he says.



<div style="height:15px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>



Referring to the Rhapsody lyrics, he continues, “Early drafts such as these are easily lost or discarded, so the rare survival of these manuscripts provides us with fascinating insights into how his songs were developed and put together, as well as reminding us of their musical complexity and sophistication.”


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="500" height="667" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Freddie15_p_clip_rgb-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-77110" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Freddie15_p_clip_rgb-1.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Freddie15_p_clip_rgb-1-210x280.jpg 210w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Freddie15_p_clip_rgb-1-200x267.jpg 200w" sizes="(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></figure></div>


Heaton adds: “There are, of course, other valuable items: rare records, stage-worn costumes and other evocative items – I sold a pair of John Lennon’s sunglasses for £137,000 a few years ago.” An ivory-hued satin catsuit inspired by the mythic god, Mercury, which was used in Bohemian Rhapsody’s groundbreaking promotional video is estimated at £50,000–£70,000.



<div style="height:15px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>



“In general people pay high prices for music memorabilia for the same reason that they pay high prices for art or ceramics or rare books – because they are passionate about them.” The majority of collectors will have a love for the music they buy into. “Sometimes these are people who collect in other areas, other times they are not – it is the passion for the music that unites them,” notes Heaton.



Music to Collectors’ Ears


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="500" height="620" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Donna4_p_rgb.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-77116" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Donna4_p_rgb.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Donna4_p_rgb-226x280.jpg 226w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Donna4_p_rgb-200x248.jpg 200w" sizes="(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></figure></div>


According to Darren Julien, Founder and President of Julien’s Auctions, iconic pieces worn during a stage performance, video or red-carpet event often sell for higher amounts since that appearance is recorded by photographs or on film. There is an element of nostalgia involved. “These items represent a time or a memory in one’s life that drives the bidder at an auction in the hopes of winning and keeping that memory alive,” he says.



<div style="height:15px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>



An 18-carat white-gold and diamond Omega wristwatch worn by the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley, and seen in photographs during his extraordinary career, sold at a 2018 Phillips auction for US$1.8 million (HK$14.09 million) after frenzied bidding, smashing the world record for an Omega.


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="768" height="600" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/the-beatles-yellow-submarine-movie-lobby-card_p_rgb.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-77112" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/the-beatles-yellow-submarine-movie-lobby-card_p_rgb.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/the-beatles-yellow-submarine-movie-lobby-card_p_rgb-358x280.jpg 358w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/the-beatles-yellow-submarine-movie-lobby-card_p_rgb-200x156.jpg 200w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


Julien’s Auctions famously sold the Beatles’ handwritten Hey Jude lyrics in 2020 for US$910,000, nine times its original estimate. The acoustic-electric guitar used by Kurt Cobain at a 1993 MTV Unplugged performance went for US$6 million in 2020, a world record for guitars sold at auction. The US auction house has also sold items from the Rolling Stones and other major stars. “The Beatles, the Rolling Stones, U2, Madonna, Michael Jackson, Cher and Barbara Streisand are all highly collectible and have a huge global audience. But contemporary artists such as BTS are also highly collectible, along with Taylor Swift, Coldplay and even Rosario,” says Julien.


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="500" height="746" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Rolling_Stones_p_rgb.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-77113" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Rolling_Stones_p_rgb.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Rolling_Stones_p_rgb-188x280.jpg 188w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Rolling_Stones_p_rgb-200x298.jpg 200w" sizes="(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></figure></div>


Sound Investment Vehicles Pop Rock memorabilia is now regarded as an asset class. “People buy these items not only for the cool factor but also as investment vehicles. Museums also buy iconic pieces and fans are always hoping to win something representing their idols’ life and career.”



<div style="height:15px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>



The resale value of iconic pieces is also tremendous, notes Julien: “We sold Kurt Cobain’s green cardigan from MTV Unplugged for US$120,000 in 2015 and resold it in 2019 for $340,000. In 2006 we sold an Elvis Presley belt from the Aloha tour gifted to his friend Jack Lord of Hawaii Five-O for approximately $65,000 and we resold it in 2018 for over $354,000.”



<div style="height:15px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>



“Collectibles continue to be highly sought after by a global audience and prices continue to rise with the help of improved technology and social-media awareness. We also see NFTs as a new class of investing in all things celebrity,” adds Julien.


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="500" height="603" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Donna3_p_rgb.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-77114" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Donna3_p_rgb.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Donna3_p_rgb-232x280.jpg 232w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Donna3_p_rgb-200x241.jpg 200w" sizes="(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></figure></div>


Ahead of Sotheby’s Freddie Mercury auction, Heaton notes that the star’s attraction remains undiminished to this day. “Queen’s songs are woven into the fabric of our culture and have an incredibly wide appeal, and Freddie himself is widely acknowledged as amongst the most powerful vocalists in rock history,” he says. In Heaton’s view, the popularity and value of pop memorabilia will not diminish in the foreseeable future. “It is now more than 60 years since the Beatles began recording, and 50 years for Queen. If people still love the music now, I am sure they will do so in another generation.”

Rock on a roll: Generating huge prices at auction, collections of pop memorabilia are hot alternative assets

Much like an author who jots down their story ideas on a notepad, or an artist who paints their thoughts on a sketchbook, musicians are also constantly hit with a wave of ideas that they want to record and have saved before possibly forgetting them. Truthfully, inspiration can strike anytime and anywhere – maybe even at two or three in the morning – so it is only convenient to have something readily-available to record the tunes. Such a tool is the BandLab.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-70575" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/bandlab-1-e1680061500346.jpg" alt="" width="768" height="456" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/bandlab-1-e1680061500346.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/bandlab-1-e1680061500346-200x119.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/bandlab-1-e1680061500346-600x356.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" />
For those who are not familiar with BandLab, it is a creative platform that has everything an aspiring musician needs to create and share their music. It has a line of virtual musical instruments, including different types of pianos, guitars, and drums, using which people can play and save the tunes in their minds.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-70571 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/young-woman-singer-recording-song-using-microphone-2022-11-15-06-13-45-utc-e1680060551759.jpg" alt="bandlab" width="768" height="512" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/young-woman-singer-recording-song-using-microphone-2022-11-15-06-13-45-utc-e1680060551759.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/young-woman-singer-recording-song-using-microphone-2022-11-15-06-13-45-utc-e1680060551759-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/young-woman-singer-recording-song-using-microphone-2022-11-15-06-13-45-utc-e1680060551759-600x400.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" />
Vocalists, on the other hand, can use the audio-recording button to record their vocals and write down the lyrics in the lyrics tab which can be found in the app&#8217;s inbuilt studio.
In addition to directly composing the music on the platform, music makers can also upload their pre-recorded tunes and edit the notes as they deem perfect. It comes with an option to adjust the pitch and remaster the notes.
Once the song is ready to be shared, songwriters can post it on their accounts for other people to listen to, or even get better exposure by sending their sound recordings to contests on BandLab.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-70570 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/woman-writing-music-2021-08-28-14-46-46-utc-e1680060925259.jpg" alt="bandlab" width="768" height="512" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/woman-writing-music-2021-08-28-14-46-46-utc-e1680060925259.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/woman-writing-music-2021-08-28-14-46-46-utc-e1680060925259-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/woman-writing-music-2021-08-28-14-46-46-utc-e1680060925259-600x400.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" />
Moreover, BandLab allows people to collaborate with fellow musicians whom you can find based on their geographical location or their talents. For instance, a vocalist looking for a guitarist for their project may go to the Creator Connect tab and explore the profiles of all the guitarists in the app.
In other words, BandLab is a perfect platform to connect with people in the music community, and also grow one&#8217;s music career as some recording labels also recruit talents using the platform.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-70566 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/carefree-african-american-man-listening-to-music-o-2022-12-16-08-12-02-utc-e1680060972724.jpg" alt="bandlab" width="768" height="512" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/carefree-african-american-man-listening-to-music-o-2022-12-16-08-12-02-utc-e1680060972724.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/carefree-african-american-man-listening-to-music-o-2022-12-16-08-12-02-utc-e1680060972724-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/carefree-african-american-man-listening-to-music-o-2022-12-16-08-12-02-utc-e1680060972724-600x400.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" />
Besides, the social music platform also provides its users with music rights for the sound recordings created by them thus letting them claim ownership and royalties.
Though BandLab is predominantly used by musicians, music enthusiasts – especially the ones who love discovering really good songs by underrated indie musicians – will absolutely love <a href="https://www.bandlab.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the app</a>.
<h5>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="//www.gafencushop.com/music-therapy/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Music Therapy: What is music therapy and who exactly does it benefit?</a></h5>

BandLab – The One-Stop Creative Social Platform For Every Musician

Hong Kong game-changing females International Women's Day gafencu people empowerment

International Women’s Day: 8 influential Hong Kong women breaking the bias

With legendary music composer Hans Zimmer bringing his wide repertoire of original scores to Hong Kong, courtesy of the The Hans Zimmer Live On Tour, what unfolded recently at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre was indeed a night to remember for the thousands who had gathered for his performance.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-49353" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/CKY-0192_opt.jpg" alt="Hans Zimmer Live On Tour" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/CKY-0192_opt.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/CKY-0192_opt-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/CKY-0192_opt-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/CKY-0192_opt-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/CKY-0192_opt-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/CKY-0192_opt-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/CKY-0192_opt-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
Recognised as Hollywood&#8217;s most prolific composer, Zimmer needs no introduction. Spanning a career of several decades, the music maven has scored more than 150 projects across all mediums, which, combined, have grossed more than 28 billion US dollars at the worldwide box office. It is with the choicest scores from this wide selection of musical bonanza that Zimmer chose to serenade Hong Kong&#8217;s music-minded folks.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-49354" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/CKY-0627_opt.jpg" alt="Hans Zimmer Live On Tour" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/CKY-0627_opt.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/CKY-0627_opt-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/CKY-0627_opt-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/CKY-0627_opt-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/CKY-0627_opt-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/CKY-0627_opt-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/CKY-0627_opt-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
So the Hans Zimmer Live On Tour – accompanied ably by the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra – took concert-goers on an immersive audiovisual journey as Zimmer and his team played one iconic score after another from Crimson Tide, The Lion King, Gladiator, the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise, The Dark Knight trilogy, Inception and Interstellar. But while he played a musical medley from different films, nowhere did it seem incoherent, instead, blending together to form a narrative that is as mesmerising as it is unique. In what was surely a goosebumps-inducing moment for those gathered, singer Lebo M, who had sung the original African vocals in The Lion King sound score, joined Zimmer on stage and held the audience captive with his soul-stirring voice.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-49355" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/CKY-0693_opt.jpg" alt="Hans Zimmer Live On Tour" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/CKY-0693_opt.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/CKY-0693_opt-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/CKY-0693_opt-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/CKY-0693_opt-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/CKY-0693_opt-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/CKY-0693_opt-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/CKY-0693_opt-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
And therein lies the true success of Zimmer&#8217;s concert. While the energetic 62-year-old held sway over the audience at all times, never did it feel as if his accompanying musicians are overshadowed by him. Indeed, each performer, be it Chinese-American cellist Tina Guo or British guitarist Guthrie Govan, shines on brilliantly by the sheer virtue of their own talents, bolstered even further by the accompanying artists, who together create a musical experience like no other.
Text: Suchetana Mukhopadhyay

Hans Zimmer Live On Tour review: A musical masterpiece nonpareil

Blending summer chic with a seamless on-the-go audio experience, the new Bose Frames Rondo Audio Sunglasses are the perfect accessories for the summer season. Boasting an innovative two-in-one design, its sleek sunglass frames feature an in-built miniature speaker system that sits comfortably above your ears, enabling you to enjoy your audio experience while still being able to hear ambient noises around you.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-47205" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Bose-Frames-Rondo-Audio-Sunglasses-1.jpg" alt="Bose Frames Rondo Audio Sunglasses 1" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Bose-Frames-Rondo-Audio-Sunglasses-1.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Bose-Frames-Rondo-Audio-Sunglasses-1-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Bose-Frames-Rondo-Audio-Sunglasses-1-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Bose-Frames-Rondo-Audio-Sunglasses-1-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Bose-Frames-Rondo-Audio-Sunglasses-1-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Bose-Frames-Rondo-Audio-Sunglasses-1-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Bose-Frames-Rondo-Audio-Sunglasses-1-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
Boasting an easy-to-use design, the mini speakers of the Bose Frames Rondo Audio Sunglasses are controlled with just one button. Whether you want to turn the sound on or off, accept or reject calls or play or pause your music, all that’s required is a single click. What’s more, the spectacles are even Siri- or Google Assistant-enabled, allowing users even greater control over their mobile devices.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-47206" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Bose-Frames-Rondo-Audio-Sunglasses-2.jpg" alt="Bose Frames Rondo Audio Sunglasses 2" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Bose-Frames-Rondo-Audio-Sunglasses-2.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Bose-Frames-Rondo-Audio-Sunglasses-2-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Bose-Frames-Rondo-Audio-Sunglasses-2-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Bose-Frames-Rondo-Audio-Sunglasses-2-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Bose-Frames-Rondo-Audio-Sunglasses-2-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Bose-Frames-Rondo-Audio-Sunglasses-2-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Bose-Frames-Rondo-Audio-Sunglasses-2-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
The frames, meanwhile, are equally intelligently designed. Not only are the rims scratch-resistant, the lenses are also shatter-proof and coated with UV protection to preserve the health of your eyes under even the strongest rays. So whether you’re relaxing by the pool or undertaking a strenuous hike in the mountains, the US$199.95 Bose Frames Rondo Audio Sunglasses will ensure you’re suitably musically entertained and protected from the sun.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-47207" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Bose-Frames-Rondo-Audio-Sunglasses-3.jpg" alt="Bose Frames Rondo Audio Sunglasses 3" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Bose-Frames-Rondo-Audio-Sunglasses-3.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Bose-Frames-Rondo-Audio-Sunglasses-3-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Bose-Frames-Rondo-Audio-Sunglasses-3-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Bose-Frames-Rondo-Audio-Sunglasses-3-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Bose-Frames-Rondo-Audio-Sunglasses-3-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Bose-Frames-Rondo-Audio-Sunglasses-3-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Bose-Frames-Rondo-Audio-Sunglasses-3-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
To purchase your own pair of Bose sunglasses, visit <a href="https://www.bose.com/en_us/products/frames/bose-frames-rondo.html">the Bose website</a> today.

Introducing: Bose Frames Rondo Audio Sunglasses 2-in-1 headphone/sunglasses

Hong Kong&#8217;s musical-minded society witnessed an evening on melodious harmony when the Raaga &amp; Rhythm – Music Without Borders concert was hosted by the philanthropic Chellaram Foundation at Hong Kong Polytechnic University recently.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-46501" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/1-5.jpg" alt="Raaga &amp; Rhythm" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/1-5.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/1-5-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/1-5-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/1-5-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/1-5-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/1-5-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/1-5-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
A unique concert that brings together the East and the West, as well as ancient musical traditions of China and India on the same stage for a noble cause, the musical extravaganza was organised in collaboration with SENsational Consultancy as part of their efforts to raising awareness of people who are &#8216;differently-abled&#8217; in Hong Kong.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-46502" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/2-5.jpg" alt="Raaga &amp; Rhythm" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/2-5.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/2-5-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/2-5-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/2-5-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/2-5-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/2-5-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/2-5-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
The evening saw riveting performances by some 45 stellar musicians like HK&#8217;s very own jazz guitarist Eugene Pao, Taiwanese Erhu performer Jessie Hou and Indian classical musician Ronkini Gupta. However, it was child prodigy Rahul Vellal, an 11-year vocalist from India who won the audience&#8217;s hearts with his soulful performance of Indian classical tunes, known as raagas.&nbsp;
According to Jayang Jhaveri, the chairman of In Harmony Arts Culture, one of the organisers of the concert: &#8220;Through music, the artists convey a message of inclusiveness and integration within our society and community.&#8221;

A night of musical harmony, courtesy of Raaga & Rhythm

From the moment Beyonce burst onto the music scene in 2003 with her first solo single, Crazy in Love, her stunning looks, sassy energy and killer voice ensured it was a hit. Throw in a soaring R&amp;B horn section and a vocal contribution from acclaimed rapper (and eventual hubby) Jay-Z and the success of the track was assured. As was her own inevitable ascendancy to the all-time pantheon of pop greats.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-39675 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Since-launching-her-solo-career-in-2003-Beyonce-has-never-looked-back.jpg" alt="Since launching her solo career in 2003, Beyonce has never looked back" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Since-launching-her-solo-career-in-2003-Beyonce-has-never-looked-back.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Since-launching-her-solo-career-in-2003-Beyonce-has-never-looked-back-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Since-launching-her-solo-career-in-2003-Beyonce-has-never-looked-back-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Since-launching-her-solo-career-in-2003-Beyonce-has-never-looked-back-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Since-launching-her-solo-career-in-2003-Beyonce-has-never-looked-back-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Since-launching-her-solo-career-in-2003-Beyonce-has-never-looked-back-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Since-launching-her-solo-career-in-2003-Beyonce-has-never-looked-back-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
Fast forward 15 years and she is the most-nominated woman in Grammy history and, as of 2014, she is the second-most-awarded recording artist of all time (behind only Michael Jackson, who she cites as her greatest musical influence).
Beyond accolades, it’s also fair to say that she’s not short of a few bobs. In 2016-17 alone, she earned US$60 million, making her one of the world’s highest-paid performers. The vast majority of that income came from her Formation World Tour, which grossed a quarter of a billion US dollars. Currently, Beyonce and Jay-Z (who she wed in 2008) are midway through their On The Run II Tour, which is expected to earn a staggering US$5 million per night.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-39673 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Beyonce-is-the-second-most-awarded-recording-artist-of-all-time-2.jpg" alt="Beyonce is the second-most-awarded recording artist of all time (2)" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Beyonce-is-the-second-most-awarded-recording-artist-of-all-time-2.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Beyonce-is-the-second-most-awarded-recording-artist-of-all-time-2-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Beyonce-is-the-second-most-awarded-recording-artist-of-all-time-2-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Beyonce-is-the-second-most-awarded-recording-artist-of-all-time-2-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Beyonce-is-the-second-most-awarded-recording-artist-of-all-time-2-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Beyonce-is-the-second-most-awarded-recording-artist-of-all-time-2-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Beyonce-is-the-second-most-awarded-recording-artist-of-all-time-2-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
Despite her fame, she is forever at pains to emphasise just how grounded and normal she remains, citing her faith as one of the things that keeps her real. Tackling the difference between her performer persona and her off-duty character, she says: “How I am on stage is very different to how I am in real life. I don’t think having a sexy image onstage conflicts with your ability to love God. No one knows what I’m really like just from seeing me from afar. I like to walk around with bare feet and I don’t like to comb my hair.
&#8220;How I feel about God and what He does for me, though, is something deeply personal. That’s very much about where I came from, my family and how I was brought up,&#8221; she adds. Whatever her religious allegiance, some deity certainly seems to be smiling on the girl born Beyonce Giselle Knowles in Houston on 4 September 1981. Before her solo success, she had already won widespread acclaim as a member of Destiny’s Child, the Texas-based all-girl trio that sold 60 million records worldwide before splitting up in 2006.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-39671 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Before-going-solo-Beyonce-found-fame-the-all-girl-group-Destinys-Child.jpg" alt="Before going solo, Beyonce found fame the all-girl group Destiny's Child" width="466" height="700" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Before-going-solo-Beyonce-found-fame-the-all-girl-group-Destinys-Child.jpg 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Before-going-solo-Beyonce-found-fame-the-all-girl-group-Destinys-Child-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Before-going-solo-Beyonce-found-fame-the-all-girl-group-Destinys-Child-186x280.jpg 186w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Before-going-solo-Beyonce-found-fame-the-all-girl-group-Destinys-Child-120x180.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Before-going-solo-Beyonce-found-fame-the-all-girl-group-Destinys-Child-400x601.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" />
In 2002, while Destiny’s Child was taking an extended hiatus, she made her big screen debut in Goldmember, the third installment in the Austin Powers spoof spy movie trilogy. While a number of other cinematic outings followed, it wasn’t until 2008, when she took on the starring role of blues singer Etta James in biopic Cadillac Records, that her onscreen acting talent was finally widely acknowledged.
Despite being a multimedia entity – singer, songwriter, actress – she takes issue with being dubbed &#8216;Brand Beyonce&#8217;. She says: “I really don’t think of myself as a brand. I’m a singer, a songwriter, a musician, a performer and an actress, as well as all the other things that I do. When you add that all together, some might call it a brand, but that’s not my focus at all.”
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-39676 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/While-Destinys-Child-found-success-Beyonce-struggled-with-her-personal-life.jpg" alt="While Destiny's Child found success, Beyonce struggled with her personal life" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/While-Destinys-Child-found-success-Beyonce-struggled-with-her-personal-life.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/While-Destinys-Child-found-success-Beyonce-struggled-with-her-personal-life-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/While-Destinys-Child-found-success-Beyonce-struggled-with-her-personal-life-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/While-Destinys-Child-found-success-Beyonce-struggled-with-her-personal-life-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/While-Destinys-Child-found-success-Beyonce-struggled-with-her-personal-life-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/While-Destinys-Child-found-success-Beyonce-struggled-with-her-personal-life-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/While-Destinys-Child-found-success-Beyonce-struggled-with-her-personal-life-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
She has , however, happily capitalised on the power of that perceived brand in order to shine a spotlight on a number of issues that are clearly close to her heart. In particular, as befits the times, her primary focus is now on empowering women.
Addressing this particular priority, Beyonce says: “Power means happiness, power means hard work and sacrifice. I truly believe that women should be financially independent from men. Let’s face it, money gives men the power to run the show. It gives men the power to define value. They even define what’s sexy and what’s feminine – and that’s clearly ridiculous.”
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-39674 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Beyonce-uses-her-fame-to-champion-causes-close-to-her-heart.jpg" alt="Beyonce uses her fame to champion causes close to her heart" width="466" height="700" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Beyonce-uses-her-fame-to-champion-causes-close-to-her-heart.jpg 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Beyonce-uses-her-fame-to-champion-causes-close-to-her-heart-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Beyonce-uses-her-fame-to-champion-causes-close-to-her-heart-186x280.jpg 186w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Beyonce-uses-her-fame-to-champion-causes-close-to-her-heart-120x180.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Beyonce-uses-her-fame-to-champion-causes-close-to-her-heart-400x601.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" />
Despite – or, arguably, on account of – her crusade, her music is now seen as more relevant than ever. Her 2016 album Lemonade was one of her most acclaimed works to date, featuring in many reviewers’ best of the year recommendations.
Understandably, though, she is now at a point of rejecting at least part of her public persona, saying: “I’m so over being a pop star and I don’t wanna be seen as just a hot girl anymore. Now, I wanna be iconic. I’ve accomplished a lot and I’m highly respected, which is more important than any award or any amount of record sales.” As a summation of the life and times of Beyonce Knowles, it’s really rather hard to take issue.
Text: Robert Blain 
Photos: AFP

Beyonce: From pop princess to media mogul, we chart the rise of Queen Bey

It&#8217;s no secret that Bob Dylan has dominated the music industry for nigh on half a century, influencing an entire generation of music lovers and musician wannabes. And yet, he remains an elusive figure whose life choices and musical leanings have incited as many detractors as fans. To honour our <a href="//www.gafencushop.com/bob-dylan/">Celebrity of the Month</a>, here are five fascination Bob Dylan facts you&#8217;ve probably never even heard of.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-39422 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-is-our-celebrity-of-the-month.jpg" alt="Bob Dylan is our celebrity of the month" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-is-our-celebrity-of-the-month.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-is-our-celebrity-of-the-month-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-is-our-celebrity-of-the-month-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-is-our-celebrity-of-the-month-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-is-our-celebrity-of-the-month-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-is-our-celebrity-of-the-month-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-is-our-celebrity-of-the-month-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
A week&#8217;s silence
When Elvis Presley passed away on 16 August 1977, his death affected Bob Dylan so greatly that he went dumb for an entire week. In his own words, he says: &#8220;I went over my whole life. I went over my whole childhood. I didn&#8217;t talk to anyone for a week after Elvis died. If it wasn&#8217;t for Elvis and Hank Williams, I couldn&#8217;t be doing what I do today.&#8221;
<figure id="attachment_39421" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-39421" style="width: 466px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-39421 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-facts-His-1970-Self-Portrait-album-is-fronted-by-his-own-artwork.jpg" alt="Bob Dylan facts - His 1970 Self Portrait album is fronted by his own artwork" width="466" height="700" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-facts-His-1970-Self-Portrait-album-is-fronted-by-his-own-artwork.jpg 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-facts-His-1970-Self-Portrait-album-is-fronted-by-his-own-artwork-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-facts-His-1970-Self-Portrait-album-is-fronted-by-his-own-artwork-186x280.jpg 186w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-facts-His-1970-Self-Portrait-album-is-fronted-by-his-own-artwork-120x180.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-facts-His-1970-Self-Portrait-album-is-fronted-by-his-own-artwork-400x601.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-39421" class="wp-caption-text">Bob Dylan&#8217;s 1970 album, Self Portrait, is actually fronted by his own artwork</figcaption></figure>
Artistic endeavours
In addition to being one of the best-selling musicians of all time­ – he&#8217;s sold well over 100 million records worldwide – Dylan is published six books of paintings and drawings, and has had his artwork exhibited in several major art galleries. The cover of his 1970 album Self-Portrait actually features his own painting.
<figure id="attachment_39420" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-39420" style="width: 466px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-39420 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-facts-Hes-a-film-director.jpg" alt="Bob Dylan facts - He's a film director" width="466" height="700" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-facts-Hes-a-film-director.jpg 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-facts-Hes-a-film-director-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-facts-Hes-a-film-director-186x280.jpg 186w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-facts-Hes-a-film-director-120x180.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-facts-Hes-a-film-director-400x601.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-39420" class="wp-caption-text">Dylan co-wrote, directed and starred in the 1978 movie Renaldo and Clara</figcaption></figure>
Lights, camera, action
As if music and art weren&#8217;t enough to occupy him, Bob Dylan tried his hand at film making. His directorial debut was 1978&#8217;s Renaldo and Clara, a lengthy 235-minute movie featuring a blend of fiction, documentary-style video and concert footage.
&nbsp;<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-39418 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-facts-he-got-The-Beatles-hooked-on-pot.jpg" alt="Bob Dylan facts - he got The Beatles hooked on pot" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-facts-he-got-The-Beatles-hooked-on-pot.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-facts-he-got-The-Beatles-hooked-on-pot-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-facts-he-got-The-Beatles-hooked-on-pot-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-facts-he-got-The-Beatles-hooked-on-pot-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-facts-he-got-The-Beatles-hooked-on-pot-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-facts-he-got-The-Beatles-hooked-on-pot-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-facts-he-got-The-Beatles-hooked-on-pot-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
Beatles&#8217; high
According to Bob Spitz, a biographer for The Beatles, it was actually Bob Dylan who first got the British band hooked marijuana when he offered them a joint upon being introduced to them in 28 August, 1964.
&nbsp;<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-39419 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-facts-He-was-a-frat-boy-in-college-before-pursuing-a-career-in-music.jpg" alt="Bob Dylan facts - He was a frat boy in college before pursuing a career in music" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-facts-He-was-a-frat-boy-in-college-before-pursuing-a-career-in-music.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-facts-He-was-a-frat-boy-in-college-before-pursuing-a-career-in-music-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-facts-He-was-a-frat-boy-in-college-before-pursuing-a-career-in-music-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-facts-He-was-a-frat-boy-in-college-before-pursuing-a-career-in-music-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-facts-He-was-a-frat-boy-in-college-before-pursuing-a-career-in-music-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-facts-He-was-a-frat-boy-in-college-before-pursuing-a-career-in-music-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Bob-Dylan-facts-He-was-a-frat-boy-in-college-before-pursuing-a-career-in-music-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
Frat brother
Before making it big as a musician in New York City, Dylan first attempted a college education at University of Minnesota. While he dropped out after only one year, he still found the time to pledge the Sigma Alpha Mu fraternity.
&nbsp;

Five fascinating Bob Dylan facts you've never heard of

All About Bob: 5 fascinating Bob Dylan facts that you probably never knew

After a&nbsp; seemingly never-ending seven-year layoff, Bob Dylan – the US singer-songwriter who easily out-legends all other legends, save possibly a lingering Beatle or two – brought his optimistically-monikered Never Ending Tour back to Hong Kong for one memorable night last month.
<figure id="attachment_38623" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-38623" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-38623 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Bob-Dylan-returned-to-Hong-Kong-last-month-thrilling-his-legion-of-fans.jpg" alt="Bob Dylan returned to Hong Kong last month, thrilling his legion of fans" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Bob-Dylan-returned-to-Hong-Kong-last-month-thrilling-his-legion-of-fans.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Bob-Dylan-returned-to-Hong-Kong-last-month-thrilling-his-legion-of-fans-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Bob-Dylan-returned-to-Hong-Kong-last-month-thrilling-his-legion-of-fans-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Bob-Dylan-returned-to-Hong-Kong-last-month-thrilling-his-legion-of-fans-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Bob-Dylan-returned-to-Hong-Kong-last-month-thrilling-his-legion-of-fans-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Bob-Dylan-returned-to-Hong-Kong-last-month-thrilling-his-legion-of-fans-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Bob-Dylan-returned-to-Hong-Kong-last-month-thrilling-his-legion-of-fans-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-38623" class="wp-caption-text">Bob Dylan returned to Hong Kong earlier this month, thrilling his legion of fans</figcaption></figure>
Given that most other 77-year-olds are banned from using the TV remote and tucked up in bed by 8pm most nights, the Minnesota-born songsmith’s facility for churning through a 20-song set remains nothing short of remarkable.
This Hong Kong stopover was something like the 2,900th date of the Never Ending Tour – a continent-hopping odyssey that kicked off back in July 1988. It’s a gruelling schedule, especially for a man who has spent over 50 years as the living embodiment of the rock-filled ’60s, when teens turned troubadours and the times, they were a’changed forever.
<figure id="attachment_38626" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-38626" style="width: 466px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-38626 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/From-folk-singer-to-rock-god-Bob-Dylans-success-transcends-musical-genres.jpg" alt="From folk singer to rock god, Bob Dylan's success transcends musical genres" width="466" height="700" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/From-folk-singer-to-rock-god-Bob-Dylans-success-transcends-musical-genres.jpg 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/From-folk-singer-to-rock-god-Bob-Dylans-success-transcends-musical-genres-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/From-folk-singer-to-rock-god-Bob-Dylans-success-transcends-musical-genres-186x280.jpg 186w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/From-folk-singer-to-rock-god-Bob-Dylans-success-transcends-musical-genres-120x180.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/From-folk-singer-to-rock-god-Bob-Dylans-success-transcends-musical-genres-400x601.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-38626" class="wp-caption-text">From folk singer to rock god, Bob Dylan&#8217;s success transcends musical genres</figcaption></figure>
Recently, Bob Dylan was in the news for all the wrong reasons when he was famously too busy to collect his 2016 Noble Prize for Literature, despite being the first musical act to ever be awarded that particular honour. This almost cavalier refusal to conform is entirely in keeping with his career-long commitment to snubbing his nose at the expectations of others and following his own path.
In his early days, he outraged much of conservative America, championing civil rights at a time when the country remained virtually an apartheid nation. Later, in 1966, he wilfully alienated his folky followers by plugging in his guitar during an acoustic gig in Manchester in the northwest of England and going irrevocably electric.
<figure id="attachment_38620" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-38620" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-38620 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Bob-Dylan-first-started-as-a-folk-singer-before-going-electric-in-1966.jpg" alt="Bob Dylan first started as a folk singer before going electric in 1966" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Bob-Dylan-first-started-as-a-folk-singer-before-going-electric-in-1966.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Bob-Dylan-first-started-as-a-folk-singer-before-going-electric-in-1966-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Bob-Dylan-first-started-as-a-folk-singer-before-going-electric-in-1966-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Bob-Dylan-first-started-as-a-folk-singer-before-going-electric-in-1966-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Bob-Dylan-first-started-as-a-folk-singer-before-going-electric-in-1966-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Bob-Dylan-first-started-as-a-folk-singer-before-going-electric-in-1966-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Bob-Dylan-first-started-as-a-folk-singer-before-going-electric-in-1966-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-38620" class="wp-caption-text">Bob Dylan first started as a folk singer before infamously going electric in 1966</figcaption></figure>
It was all a far cry from his beginnings. Few would have predicted back on 24 May 1941, that the firstborn child (born Robert Allen Zimmerman) of a young Jewish couple in a close-knit Midwest community would go on to become so iconic, so influential and so transformative. There were, however, one or two clues.
Music was an early passion of the young Bob-to-be and, while still in his teens, he discovered the works of Woody Guthrie, beginning a love affair with the socially-aware oeuvre of this early 20th century folk singer that abides to this day. After a brief dalliance with college, the young Zimmerman promptly dropped out and headed to New York, where he was soon to be ‘discovered’ playing in the smoky backrooms of Greenwich Village cafes.
<figure id="attachment_38625" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-38625" style="width: 466px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-38625 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Bob-Dylans-first-album-was-a-flop-selling-only-5000-copies.jpg" alt="Bob Dylan's first album was a flop, selling only 5,000 copies" width="466" height="700" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Bob-Dylans-first-album-was-a-flop-selling-only-5000-copies.jpg 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Bob-Dylans-first-album-was-a-flop-selling-only-5000-copies-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Bob-Dylans-first-album-was-a-flop-selling-only-5000-copies-186x280.jpg 186w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Bob-Dylans-first-album-was-a-flop-selling-only-5000-copies-120x180.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Bob-Dylans-first-album-was-a-flop-selling-only-5000-copies-400x601.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-38625" class="wp-caption-text">Bob Dylan&#8217;s first album was a flop, selling only 5,000 copies</figcaption></figure>
A record deal followed, but Bob Dylan’s first album, a 13-track long-player released in 1962, almost totally failed to make an impression, selling just 5,000 copies. Its follow-up – 1963’s The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan – featured 11 (out of 13) Dylan originals and fared far better, selling a million copies in the US alone and introducing the world to Blowin’ In The Wind, Highway 61 Revisited and several other songs that remain in the great man’s touring repertoire to this day.
The love-hate relationship between Dylan and his devotees / detractors that began in his early career has never entirely dwindled. When not needling his fanbase with one of his passing phases – Christianity, Vegas showman, reclusive rock star – it is his on-stage persona and his very demeanour that has sometimes had even the most ardent of Dylanaphiles weeping into their souvenir baseball caps.
<figure id="attachment_38622" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-38622" style="width: 466px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-38622 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Bob-Dylan-is-renowned-for-being-a-belligerent-performer.jpg" alt="Bob Dylan is renowned for being a belligerent performer" width="466" height="700" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Bob-Dylan-is-renowned-for-being-a-belligerent-performer.jpg 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Bob-Dylan-is-renowned-for-being-a-belligerent-performer-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Bob-Dylan-is-renowned-for-being-a-belligerent-performer-186x280.jpg 186w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Bob-Dylan-is-renowned-for-being-a-belligerent-performer-120x180.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Bob-Dylan-is-renowned-for-being-a-belligerent-performer-400x601.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-38622" class="wp-caption-text">Bob Dylan is renowned for being a belligerent performer</figcaption></figure>
Bob Dylan is also renowned for his somewhat belligerent stage presence, which famously sees him mumble through his best-known lyrics, wantonly rearrange old favourites and sometimes wholly fail to acknowledge the presence of his audience with so much as a raised eyebrow.
And yet, his undisputed status as Difficult Dylan has done little to diminish his worldwide popularity. It certainly hasn’t put a brake on the accolades he accumulates –&nbsp;a Nobel Prize, the Medal of Freedom (the highest civilian award in the US), 12 Grammy Awards, an Academy Award, a Golden Globe, several honorary doctorates and more.
<figure id="attachment_38624" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-38624" style="width: 466px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-38624 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Bob-Dylans-countless-accolades-include-a-Medal-of-Freedom-and-a-Nobel-Prize-in-Literature.jpg" alt="Bob Dylan's countless accolades include a Medal of Freedom and a Nobel Prize in Literature" width="466" height="700" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Bob-Dylans-countless-accolades-include-a-Medal-of-Freedom-and-a-Nobel-Prize-in-Literature.jpg 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Bob-Dylans-countless-accolades-include-a-Medal-of-Freedom-and-a-Nobel-Prize-in-Literature-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Bob-Dylans-countless-accolades-include-a-Medal-of-Freedom-and-a-Nobel-Prize-in-Literature-186x280.jpg 186w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Bob-Dylans-countless-accolades-include-a-Medal-of-Freedom-and-a-Nobel-Prize-in-Literature-120x180.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Bob-Dylans-countless-accolades-include-a-Medal-of-Freedom-and-a-Nobel-Prize-in-Literature-400x601.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-38624" class="wp-caption-text">Bob Dylan&#8217;s countless accolades include a Medal of Freedom and a Nobel Prize in Literature</figcaption></figure>
With the superstars of the ’60s on their collective last gasp – we’re down to two Beatles, two founding members of The Who, and a fairly-poorly Joni Mitchell – Bob Dylan is one of a clearly dying breed. Whatever his peccadilloes, he’s one of the greatest exponents of rock’s greatest ever decades and has remained reassuringly relevant throughout his career. For that alone, he should be granted unlimited licence to skulk and otherwise misbehave. Even living legends don’t last forever and this one should surely be savoured while we still can.
Text: Tenzing Thondup 
Images: AFP

Bob Dylan is a our Celebrity of the Month

Folk singer, turned rock star, turned living legend, there’s only one Bob Dylan

With vinyl resurgence now well and truly a thing (see our coverage of this burgeoning social phenomenon <a href="//www.gafencushop.com/vinyl-resurgence/">here</a>), this once-antiquated music medium has spawned legions of die-hard fanatics who proclaim that something gets lost in translation in the analogue-to-digital transition. But just how far are they willing to go, how much are they willing to pay to own these prized collectibles? Here’s our list of the top 3 most expensive vinyl records ever sold.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-37981 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/The-worlds-most-expensive-vinyl-records.jpg" alt="The world's most expensive vinyl records" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/The-worlds-most-expensive-vinyl-records.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/The-worlds-most-expensive-vinyl-records-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/The-worlds-most-expensive-vinyl-records-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/The-worlds-most-expensive-vinyl-records-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/The-worlds-most-expensive-vinyl-records-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/The-worlds-most-expensive-vinyl-records-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/The-worlds-most-expensive-vinyl-records-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
3. The Quarrymen, That’ll Be The Day/In Spite of Anger – US$250,000
Before the birth of worldwide musical sensation, The Beatles, Paul McCartney and John Lennon first cut their singing teeth in a now-little known band called The Quarrymen. So rare are the records created by this group that this particular album is one of a kind. Valued at US$250,000 by Record Collector magazine in 2015, this unique collectible now resides in the private collection of McCartney himself.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-37980 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/This-album-from-pre-Beatles-band-The-Quarrymen-starts-our-list-of-most-expensive-vinyl-records.jpg" alt="This album from pre-Beatles band, The Quarrymen, starts our list of most expensive vinyl records" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/This-album-from-pre-Beatles-band-The-Quarrymen-starts-our-list-of-most-expensive-vinyl-records.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/This-album-from-pre-Beatles-band-The-Quarrymen-starts-our-list-of-most-expensive-vinyl-records-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/This-album-from-pre-Beatles-band-The-Quarrymen-starts-our-list-of-most-expensive-vinyl-records-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/This-album-from-pre-Beatles-band-The-Quarrymen-starts-our-list-of-most-expensive-vinyl-records-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/This-album-from-pre-Beatles-band-The-Quarrymen-starts-our-list-of-most-expensive-vinyl-records-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/This-album-from-pre-Beatles-band-The-Quarrymen-starts-our-list-of-most-expensive-vinyl-records-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/This-album-from-pre-Beatles-band-The-Quarrymen-starts-our-list-of-most-expensive-vinyl-records-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
2. Elvis Presley, My Happiness – US$300,000
As Elvis Presley’s legion of fans will probably be aware, My Happiness was the first song that The King ever recorded. No wonder, then, that this early ‘50s album makes our list of the world’s most expensive vinyl records here. In January 2015, an acetate pressing of the song was bought by The White Stripes rocker, Jack White. The final sale price? US$300,000.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-37978 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Elvis-Presleys-My-Happiness-also-makes-the-cut.jpg" alt="Elvis Presley's My Happiness also makes the cut" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Elvis-Presleys-My-Happiness-also-makes-the-cut.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Elvis-Presleys-My-Happiness-also-makes-the-cut-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Elvis-Presleys-My-Happiness-also-makes-the-cut-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Elvis-Presleys-My-Happiness-also-makes-the-cut-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Elvis-Presleys-My-Happiness-also-makes-the-cut-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Elvis-Presleys-My-Happiness-also-makes-the-cut-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Elvis-Presleys-My-Happiness-also-makes-the-cut-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
1. The Beatles, The Beatles (White Album, No. 0000001) – US$790,000
When The Beatles’ self-titled album was first released, a small number of serial numbered ‘White Album’ versions were distributed to those involved in its production. While already something of a collector’s item, this particular item, with the serial number 0000001 – was actually owned by Ringo Starr himself. When he put it up for auction a few years ago, it sold for an astounding US$790,000, making it the top entry in our list of world’s most expensive vinyl records ever sold.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-37977 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/A-copy-of-The-Beatles-self-titled-White-Album-is-the-worlds-most-expensive-vinyl-record.jpg" alt="A copy of The Beatles' self-titled White Album is the world's most expensive vinyl record" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/A-copy-of-The-Beatles-self-titled-White-Album-is-the-worlds-most-expensive-vinyl-record.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/A-copy-of-The-Beatles-self-titled-White-Album-is-the-worlds-most-expensive-vinyl-record-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/A-copy-of-The-Beatles-self-titled-White-Album-is-the-worlds-most-expensive-vinyl-record-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/A-copy-of-The-Beatles-self-titled-White-Album-is-the-worlds-most-expensive-vinyl-record-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/A-copy-of-The-Beatles-self-titled-White-Album-is-the-worlds-most-expensive-vinyl-record-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/A-copy-of-The-Beatles-self-titled-White-Album-is-the-worlds-most-expensive-vinyl-record-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/A-copy-of-The-Beatles-self-titled-White-Album-is-the-worlds-most-expensive-vinyl-record-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />

Vinyl Record-breaking: Top 3 most expensive vinyl records ever sold

When thinking of vinyl records, one might be forgiven for conjuring loon-panted leggy lovelies belting out 1970s disco classics. Images of contemporary condos and expansively-moustachioed millennials, however, would not necessarily spring to mind. And yet, in the comeback of the century, vinyl resurgence is now clearly a thing.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-37778 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/A-vinyl-resurgence-has-dawned-thanks-to-the-youths-of-today.jpg" alt="A vinyl resurgence has dawned thanks to the youths of today" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/A-vinyl-resurgence-has-dawned-thanks-to-the-youths-of-today.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/A-vinyl-resurgence-has-dawned-thanks-to-the-youths-of-today-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/A-vinyl-resurgence-has-dawned-thanks-to-the-youths-of-today-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/A-vinyl-resurgence-has-dawned-thanks-to-the-youths-of-today-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/A-vinyl-resurgence-has-dawned-thanks-to-the-youths-of-today-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/A-vinyl-resurgence-has-dawned-thanks-to-the-youths-of-today-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/A-vinyl-resurgence-has-dawned-thanks-to-the-youths-of-today-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
Since 2009, demand for this once-obsolete format has surged by 260 percent. Acts that once shunned – or even emerged well after the heyday of – this analogue audio system are now dissing digital and watching sales of their retro-style records rise.
Vinyl was first dreamt up by Thomas Edison, who unveiled a rudimentary, tinfoil-covered metal cylinder prototype back in 1877. Then, in 1894, Emile Berliner, a well-known German-American inventor, devised its current flat, black disc format and introduced the gramophone, which soon became the almost universally-adopted means of playing them well into the 20th century.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-37780 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Gramophones-once-graced-most-affluent-households-as-the-music-device-of-choice.jpg" alt="Gramophones once graced most affluent households as the music device of choice" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Gramophones-once-graced-most-affluent-households-as-the-music-device-of-choice.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Gramophones-once-graced-most-affluent-households-as-the-music-device-of-choice-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Gramophones-once-graced-most-affluent-households-as-the-music-device-of-choice-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Gramophones-once-graced-most-affluent-households-as-the-music-device-of-choice-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Gramophones-once-graced-most-affluent-households-as-the-music-device-of-choice-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Gramophones-once-graced-most-affluent-households-as-the-music-device-of-choice-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Gramophones-once-graced-most-affluent-households-as-the-music-device-of-choice-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
It was then that the reputedly-indestructible CD made its debut.&nbsp; Launched in 1982, sales of this digital upstart eclipsed the demand for vinyl within a decade, with the format all but vanishing from record stores.
Yet, the medium never entirely went away, although it did pretty much exit mainstream use in succeeding decades. From the early 1990s until only two or three years ago, it was solely championed by the more eccentric audiophiles, those who maintained that Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon – among many others – lost something intangible in the analogue-to-digital transition.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-37783 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Vinyl-records-were-first-invented-in-1877.jpg" alt="Vinyl records were first invented in 1877" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Vinyl-records-were-first-invented-in-1877.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Vinyl-records-were-first-invented-in-1877-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Vinyl-records-were-first-invented-in-1877-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Vinyl-records-were-first-invented-in-1877-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Vinyl-records-were-first-invented-in-1877-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Vinyl-records-were-first-invented-in-1877-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Vinyl-records-were-first-invented-in-1877-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
Until recently, the death of vinyl was pretty much a statistical fact. Back in 2007, for instance, only 0.2 percent of all US music purchases were vinyl-related. By 2016, though, something strange was clearly afoot, with the vinyl resurgence evident in the fact that it now represents 11 percent of US music purchases. This equated to 12 million records, the highest volume of vinyl purchases for more than a quarter of a century.&nbsp;
Significantly, this is no incidence of mass nostalgia, with many of these latter-day vinyl purchasers not even born during the glory days of the format. According to a recent survey by eBay, one in four 18-24-year-olds in the US has bought a vinyl record in the last 12 months, with many claiming to buy a new vinyl LP (long-player) every month.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-37781 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Many-claim-something-is-lost-in-translation-in-the-analogue-to-digital-transition.jpg" alt="Many claim something is lost in translation in the analogue-to-digital transition" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Many-claim-something-is-lost-in-translation-in-the-analogue-to-digital-transition.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Many-claim-something-is-lost-in-translation-in-the-analogue-to-digital-transition-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Many-claim-something-is-lost-in-translation-in-the-analogue-to-digital-transition-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Many-claim-something-is-lost-in-translation-in-the-analogue-to-digital-transition-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Many-claim-something-is-lost-in-translation-in-the-analogue-to-digital-transition-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Many-claim-something-is-lost-in-translation-in-the-analogue-to-digital-transition-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Many-claim-something-is-lost-in-translation-in-the-analogue-to-digital-transition-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
Tellingly, the vinyl resurgence comes after the demise of the format that superseded it, with digital downloads and music streaming services having put paid to the CD’s brief dominance of the sector. Indeed, taking a more cynical look at the music industry, the vinyl audio experience is the only medium that cannot be instantly recreated using current technology.
Put simply, nurturing the idea that vinyl offers a unique listening experience is something of a life-line for the music industry, given that comparatively few listeners pay for new albums, largely because illicit and free downloads are so ubiquitous and far too widespread for any clampdown to become genuinely effective.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-37782 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Todays-musical-acts-have-opted-to-go-vinyl.jpg" alt="Today's musical acts have opted to go vinyl" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Todays-musical-acts-have-opted-to-go-vinyl.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Todays-musical-acts-have-opted-to-go-vinyl-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Todays-musical-acts-have-opted-to-go-vinyl-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Todays-musical-acts-have-opted-to-go-vinyl-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Todays-musical-acts-have-opted-to-go-vinyl-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Todays-musical-acts-have-opted-to-go-vinyl-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Todays-musical-acts-have-opted-to-go-vinyl-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
And yet, despite the vast amount of newsprint and screen space devoted to the vinyl revival over recent years, no one seems entirely sure exactly why the format is back in favour. For most, it is more of a technical/experiential thing.
Others, though, see the renewed popularity of the format relating to far more than just perceived musical quality. Indeed, the owner of one Detroit record store expressed the feelings of many when he said: “It’s more of an experience. You can hold a record in your hand. You can read the lyrics. You can look at the artwork.”
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-37779 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Cover-art-is-a-major-factor-when-purchasing-vinyl.jpg" alt="Cover art is a major factor when purchasing vinyl" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Cover-art-is-a-major-factor-when-purchasing-vinyl.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Cover-art-is-a-major-factor-when-purchasing-vinyl-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Cover-art-is-a-major-factor-when-purchasing-vinyl-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Cover-art-is-a-major-factor-when-purchasing-vinyl-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Cover-art-is-a-major-factor-when-purchasing-vinyl-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Cover-art-is-a-major-factor-when-purchasing-vinyl-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Cover-art-is-a-major-factor-when-purchasing-vinyl-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
Cover artwork is surprisingly frequently cited as a factor in the renewed popularity of the LP. Indeed, this particular manifestation of pop culture was every bit as curtailed by the emergence of digital music formats as was vinyl itself.
While the glory days of vinyl left a legacy of album covers that still permeate popular culture – The Beatles’ Sergeant Pepper and Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon to name but two – the digital era has created few equivalents. It is perhaps fitting, then, that a number of latter-day vinyl purchasers concede they make their selection as much on aesthetic grounds as on audio considerations.
So, a symptom of disconnected youth, a cash-starved industry conspiracy, the pursuit of audio excellence, the hankering for a lost art form or an indulgence on the part of hipster show-offs? While all of them have probably played a part in the vinyl resurgence, not all of them are likely to equally sustain it. It will be a few years yet before we can be sure that the long-player plays on and that the last few years have not just been a vinyl lap of honour.
Text: Tenzing Thondup

And Vinylly… Vinyl resurgence is definitely a thing, but for how long?

<div style="width: 640px;" class="wp-video">
<video class="wp-video-shortcode" id="video-36676-1" width="640" height="360" autoplay="1" preload="metadata" controls="controls"><source type="video/mp4" src="https://www.igafencu.com/video/1806/May04_Richcom.mp4?_=1" /><a href="https://www.igafencu.com/video/1806/May04_Richcom.mp4">https://www.igafencu.com/video/1806/May04_Richcom.mp4</a></video></div>

McIntosh and Sonus Faber recently launched an array of new models in Hong Kong in the presence of Jean-Philippe Fontaine, McIntosh Group’s Export Sales Manager.
The four new audio systems revealed were the Olympica III SE, the latest offering in Sonus Faber’s theatre series, the McIntosh power amplifiers MC611 and MC1.25KW, and the McIntosh MCT500 SACD/CD transport.
While the Sonus Faber Olympica III SE is a special-edition loudspeaker system that retains the architectural beauty of the Olympica series while boasting a new Wenge colour and a plethora of new features, the McIntosh power amplifiers come with McIntosh’s signature technologies such as Power Guard, Sentry Monitor, quad-balanced design, McIntosh monogrammed heatsinks, Solid Cinch speaker binding posts and power control. The SACD/CD Transport, meanwhile, can be paired with a range of products having standard digital input and a digital-to-anolog convertor and can even play popular file formats from user-generated CDs, DVDs and USBs.

music

Blog Section