Sylvester James
September 6, 1947 – December 16, 1988
Sylvester James, who generally went by just his first name, was a disco-era star who had hits in the late ’70s with “Dance (Disco Heat),” “You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real),” and “Can’t Stop Dancing.” Born and raised by a music-loving family in Los Angeles, James was encouraged to sing at an early age. During the late ’60s, he moved to San Francisco where he became part of the gay and transgender entertainment community, with most notably, the Cockettes. Over the next few years, James began making a name for himself throughout the Bay area and in 1977, he signed with Fantasy Records, who teamed him up with legendary Motown producer, Harvey Fuqua. James quickly became a disco star by releasing numerous hits and appearing on television and film. His last hit came in 1984. On December 16, 1988, Sylvester James, 41, died of complications from AIDS.
What You Should Own
Dr. Ulysses Crockett, Harvey Fuqua, James all thank Sylvester and Renowned DJ-KALX Radio host for faturing the music of Sylvester in some recent dance parties. Crocket and former Drummer James Levi (appears on Hervie Hancock;s ‘Secrets’ compilation) worked with producer Havey Fuqua while Mr. Fuqua produced Sylvester asisting Sylvester to become a most important
a recording artist during the height of the Disco era., Thanks to Mssrs. Fuqua, Levi , Sergio and the greatness that is Sylvester James.
I remember attending the legendary appearance of Sylvester at the San Francisco Opera house in May 1979. The openly gay black disco artist Sylvester recorded his first live album Living Proof that night. I was in town working with Sylvester’s Fantasy Records label mates Pleasure. It was first time I was in a gay environment and it scared the hell out of me. I requested to sit with the parents of Two Tons of Fun. It was an experience I will always remember. He was a trailblazer and a legend.