DS, signed “Charles Mingus, Jr,” one page, 8.25 x 11, May 5, 1941. Document sent to the Board of Directors of his union. In full: “I herewith request permission of the Board to withdraw the claim which I have filed against Fred Skinner, relative to the Café Capri engagement. Thanking you in advance, I remain Fraternally yours.” Document has been witnessed with a stamped signature of Florence Cadrez, who also writes at the top, “5-5-41 Board granted permission for withdrawal of claim. F. Cadrez.” In very good condition, with scattered toning, a bit heavier to edges and a few small edge tears. Accompanied by a photocopy of Mingus’s claim. The initial claim to which Mingus refers was filed on April 25th and states that he was hired to play with Fred Skinner’s Band at Billy Berg’s Club Capri for one week, but after an argument with Skinner, was fired. He claims that he was only paid for five days and is due payment for the final two. Two weeks after filing the claim, Mingus presumably calmed down and decided to drop the claim rather than fortify the wall between himself and yet another fellow musician. Also signed by the union’s recording secretary, jazz composer and pianist Florence Cadrez, a celebrity in her own right, this document captures the calm after the storm—a moment of retreat from the jazz legend who lived on the attack. Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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