Barack Obama Letter To B.B. King Hits Auction Block For $17,500

BYErika Marie891 Views
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B.B. King, Barack Obama
Barack Obama wrote music icon B.B. King a letter just a month before he died sending his "warmest wishes during this trying time."

Regardless if there is a global pandemic or not, the auction block remains hot. In recent months we've learned of photos and notes from musicians and popular sports figures that have gone up for auction, and this time, a letter from former President Barack Obama to the late music icon B. B. King is up for sale. 

Jason Merritt/TERM / Staff / Getty Images

After blessing us with decades of music, B.B. King passed away in 2015. A month before he died, Obama sent King a heartfelt letter on official White House stationery. "I recently learned of the health challenges you've been facing, and I wanted to send my warmest wishes during this trying time," Obama penned in the opening of the letter.

According to TMZ, King faced a number of health issues brought on by diabetes and high blood pressure. "As the King of the Blues, you have made music that has changed our country and the world," Obama said. "For decades, your soaring sounds and extraordinary craftsmanship have touched our hearts, moved our souls, and lifted our spirits."

The outlet states that Sylvia Williams, King's granddaughter, received the letter from her mother. The music icon would later suffer strokes before passing away from vascular dementia. His daughters claimed that King's manager was abusing him, however, an autopsy didn't support their accusations. Meanwhile, Barack Obama's letter to B.B. King is expected to fetch $17,500.

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About The Author
Erika Marie is a seasoned journalist, editor, and ghostwriter who works predominantly in the fields of music, spirituality, mental health advocacy, and social activism. The Los Angeles editor, storyteller, and activist has been involved in the behind-the-scenes workings of the entertainment industry for nearly two decades. E.M. attempts to write stories that are compelling while remaining informative and respectful. She's an advocate of lyrical witticism & the power of the pen. Favorites: Motown, New Jack Swing, '90s R&B, Hip Hop, Indie Rock, & Punk; Funk, Soul, Harlem Renaissance Jazz greats, and artists who innovate, not simply replicate.
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