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When Elton met Jake In an OMM exclusive, Elton John and Jake Shears of the Scissor Sisters discuss what it means to be a gay star, just what constitutes a gay sense of humour - and why everyone is welcome in their world. |
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Everyday people Young man! Ever wondered what happened to the Village People? Ed Vulliamy traces the extraordinary story of the first gay superstar group, still touring after 30 years, with a trail of drugs, death and recriminations in their wake. |
Reggay boyz
Tracks such as the infamous 'Boom Bye Bye' have given ragga a reputation for homophobia. So why are some of the most vital gay clubs thriving on a strict diet of bashment? Stuart Brumfitt reports.
'I'm gay and in a boy band!'
When agonised Stephen Gately, star of Boyzone, finally revealed the secret of his sexuality, his fans didn't even blink. Others have followed his lead - but for some it's still a step too far. Craig McLean reports.
20 most fabulous
A celebration of pop's landmark gay moments, by Will Young, Boy George, Dan Gillespie Sells, k.d. lang, Alan Cumming and more ...
Read part 2
Secrets and Liza
Liza Minnelli might be adored by millions, but she has never been too grand to play the agony aunt. Star-struck fan Susie Boyt relishes an all too fleeting intimate encounter.
Meek by name, wild by nature
The extraordinary producer Joe Meek recorded British pop's first out and out gay classic, and within six months had shot himself dead. Jon Savage traces the impact of sexuality on Meek's life in the Sixties when persecution and criminal prosecution were very real threats.
Sounding off
Music is just one big, inclusive, tolerant family where all gay people are welcome, isn't it? Actually, it isn't, says Miranda Sawyer.
What rocked you in 2006?
Next month OMM will feature our definite review of the year, including our critics lists of the best albums and singles. Tell us what you most enjoyed on our new music blog.
OMM readers recommend
What are the all-time greatest gay anthems?
Rufus picks his gay icons - agree or disagree?
Amy Lamé
The performer/club hostess only has eyes for one charming man. Can Paul Mardles put a stop to her obsession and unearth some other acts deserving of her time?
Tom Waits, Orphans
Homicidal insects, Bukowski and Henry Kissinger all get the Waits treatment on a baffling but superb 3-CD set, writes Stephanie Merritt.
Compilation of the month: Pop! Justice
From Girls Aloud to the Pet Shop Boys, this is a manifesto for pop. Ben Thompson enjoys the fun.
More reviews
Hot tunes
Lady Sovereign takes on the queen of bling, and a blast from Oasis's past.
Just slip into this, Dougie...
McFly at G.A.Y., London 21.10.06.
Flash forward
No one understood Beth Ditto in her Bible Belt home. But the stomping garage-soul of her group the Gossip is finding fans further afield, writes Sarah Boden.
Soundtrack of my life: Neil Tennant
He heard his first pop hit at eight, had his first kiss at nine and used the pay from being a film extra to buy his first album. The Pet Shop Boy shares his memories with Will Hodgkinson.
Letters & emails
Letter of the month | They're going down the pub | Filled to the brim | Arts or crafts? | Autumnal Lee | Love and romance
Your call
Have we the right to know who's gay?
A postcard from ...
... San Francisco
Barometer
Uppers and downers
