The ASCAP Foundation is once again hosting its annual Holiday Auction, offering music fans the chance to score exclusive, one-of-a-kind items from some of the biggest names in music, while supporting music education and talent development programs. The third edition of this highly anticipated event launched today, and it runs through December 14, 2023. Proceeds from the auction will benefit The ASCAP Foundation, which has been dedicated to supporting aspiring songwriters, musicians, and music educators across the United States.
In the past year alone, the ASCAP Foundation has made a significant impact, helping over 300,000 individuals, including 60,000 students from more than 700 schools. This auction aims to provide critical funding to continue these efforts, ensuring that future generations of music creators have the resources and opportunities to flourish.
A Star-Studded Lineup of Donors
The list of musicians and organizations contributing to the auction is as impressive as it is diverse, representing a wide range of genres, from hip-hop to pop to country to Broadway. Some of the biggest names in the music world have generously donated exclusive items that will be up for bidding, including:
- Dr. Dre & Snoop Dogg – A pair of custom, signed Air Force One sneakers designed by artist Frankie Zombie.
- Olivia Rodrigo, Selena Gomez, and Reneé Rapp – Rare autographed memorabilia and exclusive VIP experiences.
- Travis Barker (Blink-182) – Signed guitars and memorabilia.
- Tenacious D – One-of-a-kind fan experiences and autographed merchandise.
- Steve Aoki – Exclusive DJ experiences and items.
- Chris Stapleton and Alan Jackson – Signed guitars and concert tickets.
- Big Daddy Kane – Autographed items and personal collectibles.
- Stephen Schwartz – Rare memorabilia from the legendary composer of Wicked and Prince of Egypt.
- Paul Williams, Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, Desmond Child, Poo Bear – Signed music items, handwritten lyrics, and custom compositions.
Also contributing are iconic rock bands like Papa Roach, Richie Sambora (Bon Jovi), and Chicago, as well as rising stars like Laufey and Paul Russell (known for his viral hit “Lil Boo Thang”). From Indie stars Cigarettes After Sex to Country powerhouses like Old Dominion, Brothers Osborne, Jordan Davis, and Carly Pearce, the auction is a true celebration of the diverse talents that make up the global music scene.
Exclusive Auction Items
Fans will have the chance to bid on a wide variety of unique and memorable items, including:
- Autographed Guitars and Vinyl – Many of the top artists have signed guitars and vinyl records that will be available for bidding.
- Handwritten Lyrics – Rare, handwritten lyrics from some of the most iconic songs in music history.
- Personalized Songs and Compositions – Some lucky bidders will have the opportunity to have a song written just for them by an ASCAP-affiliated songwriter.
- VIP Experiences – Meet-and-greets, VIP tickets to concerts, and access to high-profile music and sports events like the Grammys and the Super Bowl.
- Exclusive Memorabilia – One-of-a-kind signed items from top musicians, including instruments, clothing, and artwork.
This year’s auction also features contributions from prominent brands and organizations, including Gibson Guitars, Songwriters Hall of Fame, Brooklyn Nets, Atlanta Hawks, DJ Flict, Los Angeles Football Club, and Trans-Siberian Orchestra. Additionally, renowned film and TV composers like Natalie Holt (Loki), Michael Giacchino (Spider-Man: No Way Home, The Batman), and Lorne Balfe (Mission: Impossible films) have donated exclusive items and experiences to raise funds for the cause.
Support Music Education and Talent Development
The ASCAP Foundation’s Holiday Auction is not just about obtaining rare and unique music memorabilia; it’s about giving back to the music community. With all proceeds going to fund ASCAP’s educational and talent development programs, the auction plays a crucial role in fostering the next generation of songwriters, musicians, and music industry professionals. ASCAP’s programs provide mentorship, scholarships, and resources to young creators across the country, empowering them to pursue their dreams and build lasting careers in music.
Nicole George-Middleton, Executive Director of The ASCAP Foundation, shared her excitement about this year’s event:
“We could not be more excited that the Holiday Auction is becoming an annual tradition for The ASCAP Foundation. It has been incredible to see the donations pour in from ASCAP’s top members as we work together to raise funds to support future music creators. It is truly a one-of-a-kind auction for music fans, and we thank our supporters from the bottom of our hearts for their generosity.”
How to Participate
Bidding is now open, and music fans across the globe can participate in the online auction by visiting the official auction website: www.ascapfoundation.org/auction23. With a wide array of items to choose from, there’s something for every music lover to discover, whether you’re an aspiring musician, a die-hard fan, or simply someone who wants to support music education.
The auction runs through December 14, 2023, so don’t miss out on the chance to own exclusive items while contributing to a meaningful cause that helps support the next generation of music creators.
About The ASCAP Foundation
The ASCAP Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting music creators through educational and talent development programs. For more than 75 years, the Foundation has worked to provide opportunities for aspiring songwriters and musicians, especially those from underserved communities. Its programs reach over 300,000 people annually, including students, teachers, and aspiring songwriters across the United States.
For more information on the auction and to place your bids, visit www.ascapfoundation.org/auction23.
This year’s ASCAP Foundation Holiday Auction promises to be an unforgettable event, showcasing the generosity of the music industry’s biggest stars and helping to provide the resources young creators need to thrive. Happy bidding, and happy holidays!
