The world's most expensive record

Frank Wilson 45 fetches nearly $40,000


No, it didn't bring in the $100,000 that some thought it might, but a copy of the 45 of Frank Wilson's "Do I Love You" — a legend in Northern Soul circles — did set a record, going for more than £25K. In dollars, the total amount approaches $40,000, making it the world's most expensive record.

Sold by Kenny Burrell, this version is one of only two surviving copies of Wilson's record known to exist — and it's the only one in acceptable playing condition. Motown kingpin Berry Gordy originally ordered the record destroyed.

As the story goes, Wilson, who became a producer for Motown, was hired in late 1965 to head up the label's West Coast operation in Los Angeles. The deal was contingent upon Wilson giving up his recording and performing career. But Wilson recorded a demo of "Do I Love You." Upon finding out, Berry gave the order to have it wiped off the face of the earth. But, two copies escaped.

U.K. record dealer John Manship, who specializes in Northern Soul rarities, held the auction for Burrell's record. The total amount of the sale, which started in the middle of March and ran to April 29, was £25,742.

You can listen to this song on:-

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zkpenzFNbpk&feature=related.

But this is not his original Motown version but a newer version he recorded for Ian Levine's Motorcity label back in the 80's.

You can get his original version on many of the recent Motown complilations CDs from :-

http://www.dustygroove.com/

"The Magic Of Motown", "Complete Motown Singles Vol:5

and Motown 50 - Today, Tomorrow, Forever"