For the record, I'm not a NIS, although I do unload a few extras on the web. I wouldn't have done that with an autographed one, however. On to your point, however, I deal with rock stars several times a week, on a professional basis. I never ask for autographs, unless it's for the kids of a company Vice President. About 2 years ago, however, my boss began purchasing a guitar every year and asking me to collect autographs. Once a year we give it away to one of our business partners who (presumably) offers it to the member of the public as part of a contest or auction it for charity. In all that time, I'd say about 1 in 15 stars refuses to sign because he's wary about where it will end up (He doesn't want to see it on eBay). In my opinion signing autographs is part of the rock star jopb description. if he doesn't want to sign one for a reporter -- fine. However, when it comes to fans, I truly believe they are well enough compensated to do sign any reasonable requests. Anthony saw a line of 200 people at the HArd Rock. Perhaps he was worried that all 200 would be asking him for autographs. In actuality, only about 3 of us were asking. I do give him credit for taking the time to shake the hands of all 3 of us (I wasn't even holding my hand out) but I don't think it would have been too much trouble to sign the autographs.

Best story I've ever heard, however, is Keith Richards being approached about 2 years ago outside a NYC club by a "fan" with a guitar. Keith was tired of seeing his stuff on eBay, so he took the guitar, git in his limo, and drove away with it. When the fan followed the limo, the driver got out and informed him "It's Keith's guitar now."