Music mogul Rick Ross has announced plans to auction his collection of 800 items through a live and online event hosted by Julien’s Auctions. According to him, proceeds of the auction will benefit The Creative Collective NYC’s Boss Up Grant program.
He said, “I looked around one day and marveled at how blessed I am. I wanted to figure out how to be a blessing to others and share some of the dopest, rarest luxuries with the world that I’ve collected over the course of my career.”
He explained that Pharrell inspired him to hold an auction to support the next generation of “bosses”, as reported by Hot FM. The rapper believes this approach is both fan-friendly and sustainable, allowing him to give back to a community that has supported him.
He added, “Even the most motivated people have to feel empowered to chase and pursue those big ideas, and through this charitable effort with The Creative Collective, the aim is to provide entrepreneurs and young hustlers with the push they need to become legendary.”
The auction on June 25 and 26 will feature rare sneakers, a piano adorned with Michael Jackson’s Thriller art, and other unique items. The Michael Jackson memorabilia also includes a sealed ONE by Cirque du Soleil light-up glove and a sealed Bad 25th-anniversary vinyl.
Fashion items included in the collection are from designers like Gucci, Stefano Ricci, Dolce & Gabbana, and Versace, some of which were worn by Ross in various TV appearances and music videos.
The sneaker collection also boasts collaborations with Virgil Abloh, Nike Air Max 90s, and Air Jordans, including Retro University of Michigan PE and 5 Retro Fab Five models. The collection further includes art from street and contemporary artists like Mr. Brainwash, Franky Cardona, Picasso Blac, Bankrupt, Jon Moody, Waldemar Swierzy, and Christian Weber.
Other notable items up for auction are lion sculptures, drinking goblets, handwritten lyrics, and a 24-carat gold-plated Bengal tiger skull.