A FAMILY PHOTO

"Y'know, Dave," says legendary producer/guitarist and philanthropist Nile Rodgers to legendary producer/songwriter and menschy guy Dave Stewart as they contemplate the former's big charity auction, "catalog valuation has skyrocketed to astounding levels, prompting billions of dollars in new investment." "Blimey," Stewart replied. "That's almost enough to refinish the pick guards on these Strats."

The aforementioned auction, which takes place on 12/16 at Christie's in NYC, will place a 160-lot treasure trove of Rodgers' guitars, synthesizers, production equipment, fashion and even vintage cars on the block, and will raise money for the We Are Family Foundation, a nonprofit Rodgers co-funded with Nancy Hunt (who serves as WAFF President). The Foundation promotes cultural diversity and provides mentorship and support for young people seeking change. Among the guitars on offer are Rodgers' iconic "Hitmaker" Fender Stratocaster. "These instruments have been the soundtrack of our lives, from the '70s til now," reads a quote from the musical innovator, who altered the musical landscape with his band Chic and as producer of artists like David Bowie, Madonna, Diana Ross, The B-52's and many more. "The've played on records, films and video games worth over a billion dollars. I'm auctioning them off so they can benefit the We Are Family Foundation and ultimately give people as much joy as they've given me."

Whether Rodgers would auction off his prized framed photo of Merck Mercuriadis stroking a cat while detailing his plan to control the weather was undetermined at presstime.