Billie Holiday Autograph Letter Signed , 4 to, n.p., n.d. but ca 1958.
Holiday writes in pencil, on yellow lined paper, on the back of a letter from , Father Norman O' Connor (1921-2003), referred to as "the Jazz Priest " because he had been a jazz musician and incorporated jazz music into his sermons on occasion. She begins with her reason for choosing the back of the letter. "Louie, [likely Louie McKay whom she married in 1957] I am writing this on the back of my Prests [sic] letter. You know Father O'Connor Boston. I did a very silly thing I toled [sic] you. You reaily [sic] must go for that that I got to say Bitch dont [sic] get me wrong I am not angry Just feel sort of cheap and dirty. I am also sure you dont realy [sic] mean to hurt me other wise I would have made a awful [sic] stink...I am going to make a few changes here. We are still frends [sic] I hope she doesnt [sic] break your heart." She signs, "Lady Day." Holiday writes on the back of the O'Connor's letter which reads, "Billie, Excuse paper - just got a copy of your recording in Columbia with [Ray] Ellis - Wonderful...." He asks how she is and if there is anything he can do and signs, "Father Oc." The album referenced is likely "Lady in Satin" released in 1958 on Columbia Records.
Billie Holiday is an American icon of the music world. Her gifts in singing jazz and blues are legendary, as much for the feelings she put into the songs, as for the songs themselves. She is best remembered for the songs, "Strange Fruit", "Body and Soul" and "Georgia On My Mind". Holiday's letters seldom appear on the market.
Item #2212
Price: $3,800.00