Janis Joplin Signed Rider Contract – COA PSA/DNA

Janis Joplin had a relatively short career lasting 5-6 years. She died tragically at the age of 27 on October 4, 1970 of a heroin overdose at the Landmark Motor Hotel in Hollywood, California.  Joplin was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1995 and was posthumously given the 2005 Lifetime Achievement Award by the National Academy of recording Arts and Sciences (The Grammys).

Given her short career, her signature is one of the most elusive in rock and roll. She was an approachable and generous person but her limited time in the public eye provided small numbers of autographs. Hence, her autograph is one of the most sought after in the music industry as shown by the thousands of dollars her treasures have sold for.

Presented is a treasure as it is one of her actual contracts in preparation for a performance she did in California. The standard contract is three pages and part of a performance agreement. This paperwork stamped with 3979 details some of what is known in the music industry as her “Rider”. For example, how many tickets would be available to her, the type of lighting/electrical outlets she requires, necessary top billing, public advertising, her not allowing recording, merchandise sales etc. There is also a handwritten addendum above the signature area which include her agreeing not to perform in L.A. or Orange County before the show. Joplin signed the last page boldly in blue pen in agreement on the signature line (“9-10”). Overall, a very desirable piece of music history with an iconic autograph.

Authentication: PSA/DNA Full Letter