38 Queer Black Musicians

Before Sylvester James was crowned the Queen of Disco, the soulful "You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)" singer was a troubled teenager who had been kicked out of the house and found comfort in music. After years of struggling Sylvester finally hit it big in 1978 when he released Step II. Though Sylvester died in 1988 at the age of 41, but his songs live on. In fact, Concord Music will be releasing a collection of Sylvester's greatest hits later this month.

LISTEN: Playlist of 36 Musicians (and Two Videos)