Glenn Danzig’s First Solo Single Breaks Records with $10,000 Sale
Most Expensive Vinyl on Discogs
For avid collectors and music enthusiasts, Discogs serves as a treasure trove of hard-to-find vinyl records. This online marketplace features a plethora of listings from both record stores and individual collectors, making it a go-to platform for those on the hunt for elusive albums. Recently, the site unveiled its top 25 most valuable records sold in February, with a remarkable entry topping the list: Glenn Danzig’s first solo single, “Who Killed Marilyn?”
This 7-inch record, initially released in 1981 with “Spook City U.S.A.” as its B-side, was believed to have a limited pressing of around 5,000 copies on black vinyl. The rarity of this single, combined with its significant backstory, has contributed to its soaring value.
The $10,000 Sale Explained
Discogs records indicate that subsequent versions of “Who Killed Marilyn?” were pressed after the original release. Notably, in 1983, an additional 500 copies were made available in purple vinyl, along with a special variant of 25 copies pressed in a combination of purple and black vinyl. Currently, only 14 collectors on Discogs own the more elusive purple and black variant, and one of these sold for an astonishing $10,000 earlier this year.
This transaction marks a significant milestone, as it is reportedly the first time this specific single has been sold through Discogs. An intriguing aspect of this sale is the seller’s claim to be the original owner, stating they received the record directly from Danzig in 1983. However, the specifics of how the record was obtained remain undisclosed.
Other High-Value Records Sold
The top 10 records sold on Discogs throughout February predominantly feature rock music. Here’s a rundown of the other notable sales:
- Glenn Danzig, Who Killed Marilyn? (1983) – $10,000
- The Rolling Stones, I Wanna Be Your Man (1964) – $6,400
- The Trips, Love Can’t Be Modernized (1967) – $4,333
- ABBA, Hovas Vittne (1981) – $4,117
- Tool, Aenima (1997) – $4,000
- Mayhem, Deathcrush (1987) – $3,800
- Joe Harriott & Amanico D’Silva Quartet, Hum Dono (1969) – $3,772
- The Beatles, Paperback Writer (1966) – $3,500
- Zakarrias, Zakarrias (1971) – $3,410
- One in a Million, Fredereek Hernando (1967) – $3,033
In the realm of vinyl pricing, rarity often outweighs the condition of the album. Record labels have increasingly recognized this trend, pushing out multiple versions of albums to entice collectors. This technique can sometimes include creative pressings that result in highly sought-after collector’s items.
Conclusion
The sale of Glenn Danzig’s “Who Killed Marilyn?” for $10,000 not only highlights the significance of rarity in the vinyl collecting community but also underscores the enduring legacy of the Misfits frontman. As collectors continue to seek out unique and valuable records, the fascination with music-related memorabilia remains as vibrant as ever.
FAQs
What is Discogs?
Discogs is an online marketplace where users can buy, sell, and catalog vinyl records and other music formats. It features listings from both record stores and individual collectors.
Why is “Who Killed Marilyn?” so valuable?
The value of “Who Killed Marilyn?” stems from its rarity, limited pressings, and unique backstory, including the claim that the seller was the original owner who received it from Danzig himself.
What are some other valuable records currently trending?
Other valuable records recently sold on Discogs include titles from The Rolling Stones, ABBA, Tool, and The Beatles, with prices ranging from thousands to tens of thousands of dollars.
How can I find rare vinyl records?
You can find rare vinyl records on platforms like Discogs, local record stores, and vinyl fairs. Online marketplaces and auction sites also frequently list unique items for sale.
