Rock rarities A very special record of a life loving music

SOME people collect stamps. Others find solace in rare books or vintage vinyl. But for John Osborn, the world of music memorabilia especially those shimmering gold and platinum discs has become more than just a hobby. It's a lifeline, a time capsule, and in many ways, a deeply personal testament to a life-long love affair with sound.

- Lewis CLARKE

Next month, as a special feature of the Bristol Beacon Record Fair, a slice of John's carefully curated collection will step into the spotlight for the very first time.

At 54, based in the Wiltshire town of Devizes, John Osborn leads a life many would find unexpected for a music memorabilia enthusiast. By profession, he's a therapist, specialising in PTSD a role worlds apart from the glitter of gold discs and rock 'n' roll history. Yet, perhaps it's this very contrast that gives his collection its emotional resonance.

"Collecting is a good outlet for me," John explains. "Having a passion is a real antidote and support for anyone who has suffered trauma in their lives."

His journey began, as many great stories do, with a twinge of envy. "A friend of mine had a signed Depeche Mode LP. I was so unbelievably jealous. I've never forgiven him for showing me that," he jokes.

That moment ignited a fire that has burned for over three decades. What started as a desire to work in a record shop blossomed into a pursuit of the rare, the iconic, and the personally meaningful.

"I'm not a musician," he admits. "The best quote I ever heard was: 'I came to the realisation I had exceptional taste but literally no talent.' Accepting that helped me find a place in the world of music in my own way."

John's collection defies easy categorisation. It spans award discs, signed guitars, original artwork, and autographs from the giants of music and pop culture. With a taste leaning towards the extraordinary, he's amassed artefacts that most fans would never dream of holding.