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Lot #3440
The Ramones: Monte Melnick Signed Police Light from Tour Van

"Used to get us to the gig quickly"—a police-style strobe light from the Ramones' tour van

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Estimate: $400+
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Description

"Used to get us to the gig quickly"—a police-style strobe light from the Ramones' tour van

Unique amber police-style vehicle strobe light used on the Ramones' tour van in the 1990s, signed on the transparent globe in black felt tip by manager Monte Melnick, "Gabba Gabba Hey! Monte." The light measures 4.5″ in diameter and 5″ tall, and retains its 12-volt vehicle power cord. When traffic got heavy—en route to Lollapalooza, for example—one of them would say 'time to stick the Kojak light on the roof,' and then they would speed off to the show. In fine condition.

Accompanied by a letter of provenance from Warren Cohen, who worked for the Ramones as a tour assistant. In part: "My responsibilities included driving the van, assisting our tour manager, Monte Melnick and onstage support. Often, the band would play festivals and we would get stuck in traffic leading to the venue. This would increase tension and anxiety for me as The Ramones could not be late. While in a Pep Boys automotive store one day on tour, Monte and I came across this strobe light. We had the idea to use it as a way to alert other motorists that we needed to get by them and thru traffic quickly. The light traveled in The Ramones van for several years and was often used to get us to the gig quickly. This light, and its purchase, is detailed in Monte Melnick's book, 'On The Road With The Ramones.'"

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Marvels of Modern Music
  • Dates: #667 - Ended June 22, 2023