What a fantastic retrospective on the life and career of an icon. I didn't know a lot about him other than just some basic details, so this has been very informative on many levels. What a voice, what a vision... and what a beautifully written tribute you have crafted. Bravo!
Thanks, Andy. That means a lot, Sylvester is truly special, and I wanted this piece to be just right. He played such an important role in the evolution of disco and dance music, and in the emancipation of the LGBTQ+ community. Where would we be without brave individuals like him? Thanks for reading and sharing your thoughts. Enjoy your weekend!
Yes, the video (link) is included in the write-up. I really like their version, it’s noticeably slower than the original, but it works. Just goes to show how strong both the song and the artist are.
This piece is, by far, the best I’ve ever read about Sylvester. You’ve taken all the disparate threads that influenced and inspired this wonderful artist and music and have woven them into a beautiful tapestry that honors and respects Sylvester in an inspiring narrative. Well done. And thank you. This is what I’m here for.
This is a wonderful compliment, Todd, not just because it’s great to hear, but because you’ve echoed exactly what I aim to achieve with my pieces each week. Thank you so much, I really, really, really appreciate it!
The split on Step II between electronic disco and more traditional R n B reminds of the split between the first and second discs in Donna Summer's Once Upon A Time 1977 double album set. I remember being disappointed at the time that there wasn't more emphasis on the electronics but I guess this was still a transitional era
That’s Giorgio Moroder and Pete Bellotte for you, they were masters at crafting the right sound. But every successful producer also needs a sharp sense of the market and an intuition for what’s likely to resonate in the coming year (at least until the next production or release). Both of these gentlemen had that in spades. They understood that disco was evolving and that the Eurodisco influence was gaining momentum. At the same time, they didn’t want to lose touch with the fanbase built from their earlier work. Heck, that might even be the main reason it ended up being a double album. 😃
Thanks for reading and for sharing your thoughts, Paul!
Great piece on an incredible singer and iconic human. I'm pretty sure I heard Sylvester for the first time on the TV show What's Happening!!!, which used "Dance (Disco Heat)" during one of Rerun's dance routines. But I know I heard "Mighty Real" for the first time as the musical bed for a car dealership radio ad! https://danepstein.substack.com/p/i-know-youll-love-me-like-you-should
Thanks, Dan. Just read your piece, always fascinating to see how people first connect with a song, especially when it’s through something like a commercial that ends up being forever linked to the track. And you’re absolutely right: Sylvester was incredible. I already knew his story before I started writing, but the interviews and details I uncovered during my research deepened my respect for him even more. Really appreciate you reading, sharing, and responding. Have a great weekend!
Absolutely, Dan. You Make Me Feel is a song that truly earns its place as an anthem, and Sylvester rightfully stands out as a hero. He’s a genuine inspiration. Thanks for reading and sharing your thoughts, have a great weekend!
What a fantastic retrospective on the life and career of an icon. I didn't know a lot about him other than just some basic details, so this has been very informative on many levels. What a voice, what a vision... and what a beautifully written tribute you have crafted. Bravo!
Thanks, Andy. That means a lot, Sylvester is truly special, and I wanted this piece to be just right. He played such an important role in the evolution of disco and dance music, and in the emancipation of the LGBTQ+ community. Where would we be without brave individuals like him? Thanks for reading and sharing your thoughts. Enjoy your weekend!
Absolutely! No one else could have done it better than you, Pe. Well done! Have a great weekend too 😊
Have you heard the Soulwax for Despacio version of this song?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OkgmL5MTGjg&list=RDOkgmL5MTGjg
Yes, the video (link) is included in the write-up. I really like their version, it’s noticeably slower than the original, but it works. Just goes to show how strong both the song and the artist are.
This piece is, by far, the best I’ve ever read about Sylvester. You’ve taken all the disparate threads that influenced and inspired this wonderful artist and music and have woven them into a beautiful tapestry that honors and respects Sylvester in an inspiring narrative. Well done. And thank you. This is what I’m here for.
This is a wonderful compliment, Todd, not just because it’s great to hear, but because you’ve echoed exactly what I aim to achieve with my pieces each week. Thank you so much, I really, really, really appreciate it!
A lovely piece Pe, thanks for all the brilliant research and your lovingly crafted tribute
Thanks for reading & reacting Mark!
The split on Step II between electronic disco and more traditional R n B reminds of the split between the first and second discs in Donna Summer's Once Upon A Time 1977 double album set. I remember being disappointed at the time that there wasn't more emphasis on the electronics but I guess this was still a transitional era
That’s Giorgio Moroder and Pete Bellotte for you, they were masters at crafting the right sound. But every successful producer also needs a sharp sense of the market and an intuition for what’s likely to resonate in the coming year (at least until the next production or release). Both of these gentlemen had that in spades. They understood that disco was evolving and that the Eurodisco influence was gaining momentum. At the same time, they didn’t want to lose touch with the fanbase built from their earlier work. Heck, that might even be the main reason it ended up being a double album. 😃
Thanks for reading and for sharing your thoughts, Paul!
Great piece on an incredible singer and iconic human. I'm pretty sure I heard Sylvester for the first time on the TV show What's Happening!!!, which used "Dance (Disco Heat)" during one of Rerun's dance routines. But I know I heard "Mighty Real" for the first time as the musical bed for a car dealership radio ad! https://danepstein.substack.com/p/i-know-youll-love-me-like-you-should
Thanks, Dan. Just read your piece, always fascinating to see how people first connect with a song, especially when it’s through something like a commercial that ends up being forever linked to the track. And you’re absolutely right: Sylvester was incredible. I already knew his story before I started writing, but the interviews and details I uncovered during my research deepened my respect for him even more. Really appreciate you reading, sharing, and responding. Have a great weekend!
Thank you - you do the same!
I first heard this song in the clubs during the mid-1980s. It was quite the anthem among the LGBT crowd!
Absolutely, Dan. You Make Me Feel is a song that truly earns its place as an anthem, and Sylvester rightfully stands out as a hero. He’s a genuine inspiration. Thanks for reading and sharing your thoughts, have a great weekend!
Yes You have a great weekend too!
posted a link to your post here: https://www.reddit.com/r/despacio/comments/1ld18o9/despacio_song_of_the_day_june_12_sylvester_you/