Jimmie Davis Signed Controversial Contracts with Copy of Biography.... (Total: 3 Items)

Description

Jimmie Davis Signed Controversial Contracts with Copy of Biography. In a performing career spanning eight decades, Jimmie Davis embraced both raucous Country-Blues and traditional Gospel while maintaining a public-service career that saw him twice elected governor of Louisiana. Davis is largely associated with the classic tune "You Are My Sunshine", which he claimed he wrote while attending LSU. In reality, he bought it from performer Paul Rice in 1939, as evidenced by this contract, dated December 16, 1939, and signed by Rice in black ink. The agreement gave all rights to the song to Davis for the sum of $35, and established that "Jimmie Davis and Charles Mitchell shall be listed as writers of the above musical composition and not include myself as co-writer." Also included is a royalties agreement for the song "You Don't Love Me Anymore", dated April 17, 1941, signed by Davis in blue ink (as well as Mitchell and Paul's brother, Hoke Rice); and a copy of You Are My Sunshine: The Jimmie Davis Story by Gus Weill. The contracts are in Fine to Very Fine condition with some mild wear and soiling, and the book is in Excellent condition. Accompanied by James Spence Authentication auction LOA.



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