In this episode of 'These Are the Gays of Our Lives', hosts Sarah and Drew delve into the world of musicians, focusing on lesser-known figures like Sister Rosetta Tharp and the cultural impact of rock and roll icons. They discuss the evolution of media representation, particularly in relation to LGBTQ themes, and reflect on classic comedy's role in shaping societal norms. The conversation also highlights community resistance against censorship and the importance of preserving diverse narratives, culminating in a spotlight on the life and legacy of Dusty Springfield. This conversation delves into the life and career of Dusty Springfield, exploring her early life, struggles with identity, transformation into a music icon, activism, personal challenges, and her eventual comeback. The discussion highlights her unique voice, her impact on music, and the complexities of her personal life, including her relationships and battles with addiction and health issues. This conversation delves into the life and legacy of Billy Preston, a musical genius known for his incredible talent as an organ player and singer. The discussion covers his early beginnings, rise to fame, collaborations with iconic artists, struggles with trauma and substance abuse, and his eventual downfall. The hosts reflect on the impact of his music and the challenges he faced throughout his life, culminating in his posthumous recognition in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Sources:

Dusty Springfield

Just Dusty: https://youtu.be/FwqzaHEh2_4?si=QJVIbcZfO2TLJ4ob

Unsung: Billy Preston

https://youtu.be/9PLKhfu4PfU?si=zsZDAfb4Z_4BOlgk

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In this episode of 'These Are The Gays of Our Lives,' Drew and Sarah explore the rich history of LGBTQ+ musicians, highlighting the importance of representation in music and media. The episode culminates in a tribute to Sister Rosetta Tharp, the godmother of rock and roll, whose influence on music is profound and often overlooked. This conversation delves into the life and legacy of Rosetta Tharpe, a pioneering figure in gospel music who significantly influenced the development of rock and roll. The discussion covers her early life, rise to fame, personal struggles, and the cultural impact she had on music and society. Despite her groundbreaking contributions, Tharpe faced numerous challenges, including societal expectations and personal relationships, ultimately leading to a complex legacy that deserves recognition. This conversation explores the legacies of Sister Rosetta Tharpe and Esquerida, two influential yet often overlooked figures in the history of rock and roll. The discussion highlights their contributions to music, their struggles with identity and acceptance, and the impact they had on future generations of musicians. Through anecdotes and historical context, the speakers delve into the complexities of their lives, their artistry, and the societal challenges they faced, ultimately shedding light on their rightful places in music history.

Sources-

The Godmother of Rock n Roll - Sister Rosetta Tharpe

https://youtu.be/FKK_EQ4pj9A?si=5VcEpdo6xvqcGa0z

Esquerita

https://www.bluesandrhythm.co.uk/documents/BR270-Esquerita.pdf

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In this episode, Sarah and Drew explore the lives of LGBTQ musicians, starting with Bessie Smith and Josephine Baker. This conversation delves into the life of Bessie Smith, a pioneering blues singer known for her complex personality, turbulent relationships, and significant impact on music and culture. The discussion highlights her rise to fame, struggles with family and marriage, exploration of sexuality, confrontations with racism, and the powerful messages in her lyrics. Bessie's legacy is marked by her boldness and defiance, as well as her tragic end, which left a lasting impression on the music world. This conversation delves into the life and legacy of Josephine Baker, exploring her journey from a poor upbringing in St. Louis to becoming a celebrated performer in Paris. The discussion highlights her struggles with race and identity, her impact on civil rights, and her lasting influence on culture and society. Baker's bold performances and her role as a spy during World War II are also examined, showcasing her multifaceted contributions to art and activism.

Sources

Bessie Smith: The woman who sang the blues

https://youtu.be/o-TqtAIc21M?si=9IPG74mWk3m26y6I

Blues legacies and Black feminism : Gertrude "Ma" Rainey, Bessie Smith, and Billie Holiday

by Anglea Davis (1998)

https://youtu.be/s1lf_Vd4xqw?si=BB5hP5IIQ1B8BQG8

Josephine Baker: The Story of an Awakening

https://youtu.be/3nHUh_yjLaA?si=-f7J-jFgwc8a30jK

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