African-American singing sensations of the 1950s who became one of the most popular acts in the fledgling years of rock and roll as a result of such hits as “Why Do Fools Fall in Love?” and “I’m Not a Juvenile Delinquent.” The thirteen-year-old lead singer, Frankie Lymon, became one of the first black teen idols, and, at the height of the group’s success, struck out on his own to pursue a solo career. He never matched his earlier success and, after years of grappling with drug addiction, died of an overdose at the age of twenty-five. Terrific and extremely rare 9 x 12 paperstock Alan Freed tour program photo, signed and inscribed in ballpoint, “My man Jimmy, stay kool! Frankie Lymon”; “To Jimmy from Jimmy Merchant”; “To Jimmy, Best of luck always, from Sherman”; To Jimmy from Joe Gregory”; and “To Jimmy, Best wishes, Herman.” Signed photos of Lymon, let alone examples of this size, in this condition, and signed by the entire group, are extremely elusive. In fine, crisp condition, with tiny bend to one corner and Herman’s signature rather light (yet legible) as a result of the pen he used. COA Roger Epperson/PSA/DNA and R&R COA. From the Jane Accongigo Collection.
