When a letter from John Lennon to Eric Clapton could sell for a lot of money at auction

Image of John Lennon and Eric Clapton taken from Facebook on the page @Eric Clapton

John Lennon and Eric Clapton: two Music legends united in a group?

There are letters that have more value than others, as much for the symbolism only for the original writing of the man behind the pen. Among them, there are a letter that gets all the attention: an 8-page letter written by John Lennon on September 29, 1971. A fiery love letter to his wife, Yoko Ono? A murderous letter to his former Beatles friends, from whom he separated the year before? No, rather a missive from one friend to another, addressed to legendary Eric Clapton.

The two men already know each other: they have already had the opportunity to play together during an iconic recording of l’album live du Plastic Ono Bandalongside bassist Klaus Voormann and the drummer Alan White in 1969. An experience which deeply marked the ex-leader of the Beatles, who made him an offer for the rest of their respective careers.

A beautiful declaration of friendship in the name of music

Indeed in this letter, John Lennon asks Eric Clapton to join him in a brand new formation, a group specially designed by and for them. A fairly unexpected proposition, and at the same time very touching, when we know that some time later, Eric Clapton experienced a very complicated period in his life, gradually sinking into drugs. Lennon also alludes to it, without mentioning it directly.

“Eric, I know I can bring out something greatin fact bigger in you than has been evident in your music so far. I hope to bring out the same kind of greatness in all of us, which I know will happen if/when we get together.” – John Lennon

If Clapton ultimately refused the offer, we can imagine what such a collaboration between the two artists could have produced. In case the letter interests you, know that it will be sold at auction by International Autograph Auctions Europe SL on December 5. Registrations are now possible, and bids should be between €100,000 and €150,000.