Michael Jackson glove to be auctioned

A unique glove worn by Michael Jackson during a legendary 1983 TV appearance is to be auctioned off for charity in New York, it has been reported.

The trademark accessory worn by the late singer during the performance is unique as it was left-handed and store-bought, while all his others were right-handed and specially-made, NME reports.

Jackson modelled the glove on Motown's 25th anniversary TV special, and it will go under the hammer alongside other iconic music memorabilia including handwritten Jimi Hendrix lyrics and an early Madonna demo. The piece was originally donated by Walter 'Clyde' Orange, a founding member of the Commodores, who had kept it since 1983.

"There's a hundred other gloves out there, but this is the one you want. He blew up after that [performance] with 'Billie Jean'," Orange said, according to The AP. "The world should see this. This is the first. That's the song that made him shoot through the roof as a superstar."

Proceeds from the sale will go towards MusiCares, a charity organisation that helps musicians struggling with substance abuse. The auction is due to take place on November 21 at the Hard Rock Cafe in Times Square.