Sylvester

Sylvester’s 76th birthday would have been on 6 September 2023.

Disco legend Sylvester is best known for his chart-topping collaborations with producer Patrick Cowley, such as “You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)”.

In 1970 a 22-year-old Sylvester had moved to San Francisco and found himself involved with the Cockettes, the infamous psychedelic performance art troupe. Among this milieu was Peter Mintun, a pianist and record collector living in a commune devoted to retro culture.

According to Mintun, “We were like hippies who lived in the twenties. We lived in a house that didn’t have anything modern in it. Nothing in it was made after World War II.” Mintun and Sylvester bonded over their love of Black singers of yore and were allotted a slot during Cockettes performances reviving the music of the Prohibition Era.

One afternoon, Sylvester and Mintun recorded a number of their shared favourites including standards like “Stormy Weather,” “Happy Days Are Here Again,” and “God Bless the Child.” Sylvester’s unmistakable falsetto brings depth and a dash of camp to these familiar tunes.

All proceeds from the record will go to the two charities that Sylvester left his royalties after his death: Project Open Hand and PRC (formerly AIDS Emergency Fund).

This release documents the earliest known recordings from one of disco’s greatest talents.

What the Gay Pride Flag Means to Me: A Symbol of Inclusivity and Support

I want to share something that always manages to light up my heart and put a spring in my step – the vibrant and meaningful Gay Pride Flag.

After the shocking news the other week about Laura Ann Carleton, a shop owner in California who was killed for simply hanging a pride flag on her shop window, I realised I wanted to share what the pride flag means to me. It’s an important symbol, and in these troubling times for LGBT+ individuals, I think it’s more important than ever to support those businesses that show their support for LGBT+ people.

Yes, that colourful masterpiece that’s like a beacon of love and acceptance in a sometimes not-so-accepting world.

There’s a special moment when you’re walking down the street, exploring a new neighbourhood, and there it is – the pride flag hanging proudly on a business window, signalling that this place is all about inclusivity and celebrating diversity.

Every single time I see it, it’s like a burst of happiness and a reassurance that there are good vibes to be found.

I’m not sure about you, but for me, it’s impossible to ignore that burst of colour. It’s like an instant mood-lifter. I mean, who wouldn’t smile when greeted by that brilliant spectrum of hues that represent unity, love, and the beautiful tapestry of the LGBT+ community? It’s like a non-verbal “Hey, you’re welcome here, just as you are” message, and honestly, that’s something we could all use more of in this world.

Now, let’s talk about the magic that happens when I see that flag in unexpected places.

Picture this: I’m strolling down a street, my mind buzzing with errands, and bam! There it is – the pride flag hanging outside a cafe or a shop. Instantly, my focus shifts. It’s like a reminder to pause, take a deep breath, and acknowledge that I’m in a space where I’m not just accepted, but celebrated. It’s like someone giving you a warm hug when you least expect it. It’s like a secret code that we’re all part of this amazing, diverse family. It’s like someone saying, “Hey, we’ve got your back, and we’re excited to have you here.”

I don’t know about you, but that simple gesture makes me feel like a valued member of the community.

To me, the Gay Pride Flag is more than just colours on a piece of fabric; it’s a symbol of hope, love, and the progress we’re making toward a more accepting world. So, next time you see that flag waving proudly, take a moment to smile and remember that there are people out there who are working to create safe and inclusive spaces for everyone.

And if you’re like me, maybe you’ll also want to show your support by grabbing a coffee or checking out that shop – because when we stand together, we create a world that’s brighter, more colourful, and undeniably full of love.

The LGBT+ community is wonderfully diverse, and different flags represent various identities within the community. The beauty of these flags lies in their ability to promote visibility, understanding, and acceptance for individuals of various sexual orientations and gender identities.

Heartwarming photos