I (Who Have Nothing) - Sylvester
"I (Who Have Nothing)" is a classic soul ballad originally performed by Ben E. King in 1963, but it was later covered by numerous artists including Sylvester in 1979. The song tells the story of a man who is in love with a woman who is desired by many others. Despite his deep feelings for her, he feels inadequate and worthless because he has nothing to offer her. The lyrics convey a sense of longing and heartbreak as the man watches the woman he loves being pursued by others who have more to give. Sylvester's version of the song features his powerful and emotive vocals, backed by a lush orchestral arrangement that adds to the drama and intensity of the track. The soaring strings and dramatic drums create a sense of urgency and desperation, perfectly capturing the emotional depth of the lyrics. One notable fact about Sylvester's cover of "I (Who Have Nothing)" is that it showcases his remarkable vocal range and ability to convey raw emotion through his singing. The song became one of his signature tracks and has since been considered a classic in the soul and disco genres.
Sylvester
Sylvester James Jr., known simply as Sylvester, was an iconic American singer-songwriter who rose to fame in the 1970s and 1980s as a pioneer of disco music. Born on September 6, 1947, in Los Angeles, California, Sylvester began his music career at a young age, performing in local gospel choirs and honing his vocal talents. In the early 1970s, Sylvester moved to San Francisco, where he became a prominent figure in the vibrant LGBTQ+ community and the burgeoning disco scene. He formed the group Sylvester and the Hot Band, which gained a dedicated following for their electrifying live performances and unique blend of disco, soul, and funk. Sylvester's solo career took off in 1977 with the release of his self-titled album, which included the hit singles "You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)" and "Dance (Disco Heat)." These songs became anthems of the disco era and solidified Sylvester's status as a trailblazer in the genre. His flamboyant style, powerful voice, and fearless embrace of his queer identity made him a groundbreaking figure in the music industry. Throughout his career, Sylvester released several critically acclaimed albums and singles, including "Step II" and "Stars." He collaborated with legendary producers and musicians, such as Patrick Cowley and Martha Wash, and toured extensively, bringing his electrifying performances to audiences around the world. Sylvester's impact on music extends far beyond his chart-topping hits. As an openly gay Black artist, he challenged societal norms and paved the way for future generations of LGBTQ+ musicians to express themselves authentically. His music continues to inspire and uplift listeners, with its message of love, acceptance, and liberation. Tragically, Sylvester's life was cut short when he passed away from complications of AIDS in 1988. However, his legacy lives on through his timeless music, which remains an enduring influence on the disco, dance, and LGBTQ+ communities. Sylvester will always be remembered as a fearless trailblazer who broke boundaries and changed the face of music.