How Nile Rodgers Created Diana Ross’ Anthem

At a recent gathering to celebrate Carolyn Dailey’s book launch, “The Creative Entrepreneur,” held at the trendy San Vicente in Manhattan’s West Village, Rodgers recounted the genesis of “I’m Coming Out.” It was during the early stages of working with Ross, a monumental moment for the then-rising producer. “Diana was the first major star I collaborated with,” he revealed, reflecting on their initial meetings. “We wanted to ensure that this album was a true reflection of her essence. We spent two days interviewing her, and she was genuinely surprised. ‘Wow, no one has ever written about me before,’ she said.”

This commitment to Ross’s narrative would ultimately lead to a groundbreaking track, one that would not only define her solo career but also capture the spirit of an entire community. The inspiration for the song came to Rodgers in a most unexpected setting—a lively gay club in Manhattan.

“I remember vividly one night at this club,” he recounted, his eyes twinkling with the excitement of nostalgia. “I went to the bathroom, and on both sides of me, there were seven to ten drag queens, all dressed as Diana Ross. It was surreal.” The sight filled him with exhilaration. In that moment, he felt a powerful connection between the performer and her fans, a connection that transcended the ordinary.

Caught up in the energy of the scene, Rodgers immediately reached out to his partner, urging him to jot down an idea that was bubbling to the surface. “I told him, ‘Write this down: I’m coming out!’” The phrase resonated deeply, not only as a personal declaration but also as a universal message of pride and liberation.

At the book launch party, surrounded by notable figures like filmmaker Spike Lee and fashion designer Fern Mallis, Rodgers reflected on the significance of that bathroom encounter. “I called my Chic bandmate, Bernard Edwards, and excitedly told him, ‘I’m in a bathroom filled with Diana Rosses! This is incredible!’” His enthusiasm was infectious, and it was clear that this moment was pivotal in shaping the song’s direction.

However, the creative process didn’t stop at mere inspiration. Rodgers had already promised Ross that her album would focus entirely on her persona. He was determined to convey a message of love and appreciation back to her audience. “I told her, ‘This song will be a love letter to your fans. There’s a significant part of your audience that will resonate with this message,’” he explained. “I compared it to James Brown’s empowering anthem ‘Say It Loud – I’m Black and I’m Proud.’ It was about celebrating identity.”

The collaboration bore fruit when “I’m Coming Out” was officially released in 1980 as part of Ross’s album, aptly titled “Diana.” The song quickly climbed the charts, reaching No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100, solidifying its place in music history. Today, it is not only a staple of Ross’s concerts but has also become an anthem for the LGBTQ+ community, symbolizing freedom and self-acceptance.

Rodgers’ storytelling at the event highlighted the profound connection between music and culture, illustrating how a single night out can spark creativity that resonates across generations. His anecdote served as a reminder of the importance of authentic expression in the arts and the unexpected sources of inspiration that can lead to transformative works.

As the evening unfolded, attendees were reminded of the rich tapestry of influences that shape an artist’s journey. For Rodgers, the night at the club was a pivotal convergence of personal experience and professional collaboration, leading to a song that continues to inspire and uplift. The legacy of “I’m Coming Out” endures not only because of its catchy melody but also due to its powerful message of liberation and celebration of individuality.

In reflecting on the song’s impact, one can appreciate how it has transcended its original context to become a rallying cry for many. The phrase “I’m coming out” has evolved into a declaration of pride for countless individuals embracing their identity. It is a testament to the power of music to forge connections and foster understanding.

The narrative of “I’m Coming Out” serves as a reminder that creativity often flourishes in unexpected moments. As Rodgers recounted his journey from a night out at a club to creating a timeless anthem, he illustrated the beauty of collaboration and the importance of listening to the voices of the community.

In a world where music continues to evolve, the stories behind the songs remain vital. They remind us of the shared human experiences that resonate through art, and the unique perspectives that artists bring to their work. Nile Rodgers’ encounter with Diana Ross impersonators in a bathroom may have seemed like a fleeting moment, but it became the spark for a song that would echo through time, inspiring generations to come.

As the guests mingled and shared their thoughts at Dailey’s book launch, one thing was clear: the magic of music is often born from the most unexpected places. The story of “I’m Coming Out” is not just about a hit song; it’s about the celebration of identity, community, and the relentless pursuit of creativity. In a city like New York, where art and life intertwine, such moments of inspiration are bound to continue, reminding us all of the power of expression and the importance of embracing who we truly are.