deloresbyron02 check out my friend Kenny Bobien version of this song the extended version. He did an excellent job.....Sylvester would've been proud! Please check it out. 😊
I remember listening to this song on WBLS in NY. Frankie Crocker and Vaughn Harper, Quiet Storm both played this!! Fantastic version of it!! Rest in Peace Sylvester and Izora !! Great music is NEVER forgotten!!
Sylvester officially made made this song HIS What makes this song powerful is that he did this song live and years later this song still gives me chills
Nobody did this song justice like he did.I love Miss Patty's version hangs down, but this man can pierce your soul.R.I.P James Sylvester. You are missed💓
Its really so hard to listen to him without crying i saw his life story it was so painful what this man went through and the way he died but god want all his people home
I first heard Sylvester in a club called the "Club House " and then I know what an amazing singer he was. You could feel him in your soul. Long my he lives.😊😊😊
The reason all their voices sung so strong and it just get right into the chill of your bone, is because they all came up in the Church on the choir which trains your voices. Bring all your talents and gifts to the Lord and he will cultivate it for you. There is room for everyone regardless to who you are. God loves you. People outside that door worrying about the church folks are allowing the "devil" to rob them of their joy. R.I.P Sylvester
A true story to share with you. Forgive me....for it is a bit log for here. I was "coming out" as a gay man in the late 1970s while in college at the University of CA, Irvine. I would go to local gay Discos in Costa Mesa - "Newport Station" and "Rumor Has It" in Garden Grove; and yes, I also ventured out from the "OC" to gay/mix clubs in WeHo - "Studio One / Backlot", "Circus Disco", "Greg's Blue Dot", and "Odyssey". The Odyssey (a strip mall now on Beverly Blvd. near the Beverly Center) was an adult disco (21+) until 2am; but from 2am to 6am it was 18+. I remember very well in addition to Donna Summer's "Last Dance", an anthem song at closing was Debby Boone's "You Light Up My Life". Oh sorry, I'm straying. I certainly have GREAT memories of the Disco Era. One that particularly stands out - is this live performance of "You Are My Friend" by Sylvester. A college friend of mine, Carol Taylor worked for the owner of "Studio One / Backlot", Scott Forbes. She got him to promote "Gay Nights" at California amusement parks. I would assist Carol post flyers (bar hop) for these events at the local gay discos. Do any of you remember the first "Gay Night" at Disneyland or at Knott's Berry Farm? Well, prior to these venues, there was the first "Gay Night"...at Magic Mountain. Oh yes, and Sylvester was the headline performer. It was that night that I heard this live outdoor performance of "You Are My Friend" by Sylvester, Martha Wash, and Izora Rhodes Armstead; and IT SOUNDED JUST LIKE THIS. I would swear it had to be this same night. They started to sing this song, and about third-way into their performance Sylvester is singing "I've been around and around; I've been looking around and you've been here all the time". He starts telling their story, saying "these girls can sing!". Sylvester sings to Martha "you've been around (my friend)"; and she takes over and belts out with her vocal talent. Martha then brings it down and Sylvester then mentions that Izora too "has been around (my friend)". Izora takes her turn, the crowd is going crazy, standing up, cheering....and the performance ends with such a high. I will never forget this as one of the most memorable and my heart-felt performances that I've had the pleasure to see. Thank you for allowing me to share this story and memory with you. Allen McMillen
Patti Labelle wrote this for Sylvester,,,great song and the dance version is great to......none of the dance artists today can touch him and in person his performance was phenomenal...that screaming and shouting you hear from the audience was real..he brought church up in the club.....RIP Sylvester....
Sylvester is a true gift to us and thank goodness you left us a tiny piece of you. I personally will treasure your voice, talent and all that you are Sylvester. You are truly a blessing in disguise. RIP
These Three were put together by God. Sylvester, what can I say, that haunting voice sounds like a millions gospel choirs singing. Sending Chills through the body of anyone who heard him hit a note. R.I.P.
After watching his story on Unsung, I appreciate this diva even more! God placed him on this earth for a short while and we should be thankful that he graced the planet and make it fabulous and paved the way for many others. Never be ashamed to live out loud!
I know that Beautiful Patti LaBelle wrote and recorded this song, and I love it. But this was the version I heard first, and it touches my spirit so deeply. Sylvester, call him what you will, but he was real about himself, and you can't say Martha and Izora (RIP) didn't tear this song UP!!
this guy is the greatest he puts a lot of emotion into his . some friends I had didn't like him because he's gay but I'm not and I don't care the guys and awesome performer I've been listening to him since I was like 12 years old and his music is just timeless I miss him a lot since he passed away it was a very good blessing to have them on this Earth doing what he do best and that's music God bless you Sylvester rest in peace thank you for being here love you man.
Sylvester is my "HERO" I was discovering the real me about the same time He made his entrance on the scene, he was the first and only gay black man I had ever seen so he instantly be came my role model, tho drag was not my forty, I really admired, respected and tried to imitate his courage, honesty and self-love. Sylvester and my loving Mama "Roberta" are the reasons why I'm a well adjusted and balanced gay black man with a high selfsteam (They are my Friend).
Wow! now i am NOT a religious person but they took me back there I have not heard this in a minute but when I did it made me feel good about having good people in my life...FRIENDS. As we age, we lose more and more of them. Let the church say AMEN..................
@pimpmamadeb - we were at a PATTI LABELLE concert in SF at the Warfield in the early 1980's - and she invited him on stage to sing a little with him. it was beautiful
Baby you are fine as hell and damn can you sing! No one will ever be as bad as you were! Way ahead of your time. You are the total diva! No one comes close to you baby! RIP Sylvester.
I had a unce in-law.who was a good singer. Told me a story about Slyvester he sad if you think he can sing Disco is nothing to him singing Godspel. He told me everybody got the Holy Ghost.everybody was jumping for joy. So to all of his haters good luck to you I truly believe he had God given talent my Uncle and Aunt said it was as though he was singing just to you.
Allen, it just shows what an artist can do! Sylvester touched you in some way that an impression all these years later!!! that is what an true artist does!!!!! And Sylvester is a defining artist in all facets!!!!
Oh Sylvester... with the voice of an angel! This song makes me cry... Why do all the great performers leave us way too early? But Thank You Lord for giving us Jacob Lusk...
I miss him so much. I was a disco diva in the 70s. I was a student at fashion school and loved to get dressed up and dance on Thursdays and get up a 8:00 for classes. I loved doing the hustle and all the other couples dances. This was a happy time for music, fun, and folly at the clubs.
These women really can sang yall and dats includin Miss Sylvester. Hearing this gives me soooo much energy...it makes me cry, laugh and holla. There is nothing like the crowds participation...the emotion on stage and off is fo real yall, authentic love energy backed with some serious talent....thank God for Sylvester, Martha and Isora...they really do love each other...and "I will not forget it"
No one can sing this like Mr. Sylvester. R.I.P.
deloresbyron02 check out my friend Kenny Bobien version of this song the extended version. He did an excellent job.....Sylvester would've been proud! Please check it out. 😊
Rip excelente voz y personaje me encanta
I remember listening to this song on WBLS in NY. Frankie Crocker and Vaughn Harper, Quiet Storm both played this!! Fantastic version of it!! Rest in Peace Sylvester and Izora !! Great music is NEVER forgotten!!
Sylvester officially made made this song HIS
What makes this song powerful is that he did this song live and years later this song still gives me chills
no matter how many times i hear this song it touches me deeply
Nobody did this song justice like he did.I love Miss Patty's version hangs down, but this man can pierce your soul.R.I.P James Sylvester. You are missed💓
Amen.
Yes in deed. It brings back memories and tears to my eyes when I hear this song. Not to mention the introduction of two tons of fun ♥️
I love that Azora growl❤️
One hell of a voice! RIP LEGEND! Sylvester music will live forever!
Love it...this version sends chills. Rest on job well done
Its really so hard to listen to him without crying i saw his life story it was so painful what this man went through and the way he died but god want all his people home
FOREVER CLASSIC.
SYLVESTER.
NUMBER ONE ONDA DISCO.
R I.P.
GREAT VOICE.
Such a FREE spirit.
This song is such a timeless CLASSIC.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Always loved and never forgotten. Sylvester was one of a kind.
SV was ahead of his time, such a great talent 🙏🏽❤
NO ONE SINGS LIKE MISS MARTHA WASH.... WHAT A BRILLIANT AND CLEAR VOICE AND this IN EVERY TONE PITCH !!! amazing
I agree I get chills every time I hear this song
I thought they were going to have to pass an offering plate afterwards - they took me to church with this one! Soulful and felt it at my core!
No one sings like Martha Wash one the best singers in the whole world her part of the song is my favorite.
I first heard Sylvester in a club called the "Club House " and then I know what an amazing singer he was. You could feel him in your soul. Long my he lives.😊😊😊
The one and only Sylvester a true legend "Rest In Heavenly Peace" my friend!
One great ballad. stirs the soul. R.I.P. Sylvester
she was my friend and she was beautiful, Funny as hell. love and miss you.
Would pay so much to see a performance of this caliber. True Talent right here!!!!!
Absolutely terrific and inspirational. Super gifted and talented singers.
Always makes me cry......
SUCH A BEAUTIFUL SONG THAT STILL HAS MEANING TODAY
The reason all their voices sung so strong and it just get right into the chill of your bone, is because they all came up in the Church on the choir which trains your voices. Bring all your talents and gifts to the Lord and he will cultivate it for you. There is room for everyone regardless to who you are. God loves you. People outside that door worrying about the church folks are allowing the "devil" to rob them of their joy. R.I.P Sylvester
A true story to share with you.
Forgive me....for it is a bit log for here.
I was "coming out" as a gay man in the late 1970s while in college at the University of CA, Irvine. I would go to local gay Discos in Costa Mesa - "Newport Station" and "Rumor Has It" in Garden Grove; and yes, I also ventured out from the "OC" to gay/mix clubs in WeHo - "Studio One / Backlot", "Circus Disco", "Greg's Blue Dot", and "Odyssey". The Odyssey (a strip mall now on Beverly Blvd. near the Beverly Center) was an adult disco (21+) until 2am; but from 2am to 6am it was 18+. I remember very well in addition to Donna Summer's "Last Dance", an anthem song at closing was Debby Boone's "You Light Up My Life". Oh sorry, I'm straying.
I certainly have GREAT memories of the Disco Era. One that particularly stands out - is this live performance of "You Are My Friend" by Sylvester.
A college friend of mine, Carol Taylor worked for the owner of "Studio One / Backlot", Scott Forbes. She got him to promote "Gay Nights" at California amusement parks. I would assist Carol post flyers (bar hop) for these events at the local gay discos.
Do any of you remember the first "Gay Night" at Disneyland or at Knott's Berry Farm? Well, prior to these venues, there was the first "Gay Night"...at Magic Mountain.
Oh yes, and Sylvester was the headline performer. It was that night that I heard this live outdoor performance of "You Are My Friend" by Sylvester, Martha Wash, and Izora Rhodes Armstead; and IT SOUNDED JUST LIKE THIS. I would swear it had to be this same night. They started to sing this song, and about third-way into their performance Sylvester is singing "I've been around and around; I've been looking around and you've been here all the time". He starts telling their story, saying "these girls can sing!". Sylvester sings to Martha "you've been around (my friend)"; and she takes over and belts out with her vocal talent. Martha then brings it down and Sylvester then mentions that Izora too "has been around (my friend)". Izora takes her turn, the crowd is going crazy, standing up, cheering....and the performance ends with such a high. I will never forget this as one of the most memorable and my heart-felt performances that I've had the pleasure to see.
Thank you for allowing me to share this story and memory with you.
Allen McMillen
Allen McMillen Beautiful..xoxoxo
bless your heart. I enjoyed reading your post. and it's great that you remember that performance. I know that you had a blast.
thank you for sharing your story stay beautiful and fabulous
Thanks and God bless you
The Weather Girls... It's Rainin Men
Oh What A sanging Queen! I love you Sylvester! RIP!
He never hid who he was. And he was God fearing! RIP!
Wow. Sylvester & Too Tons Oo Fun went to Church on this One...Magnificent.
Patti Labelle wrote this for Sylvester,,,great song and the dance version is great to......none of the dance artists today can touch him and in person his performance was phenomenal...that screaming and shouting you hear from the audience was real..he brought church up in the club.....RIP Sylvester....
Sylvester is a true gift to us and thank goodness you left us a tiny piece of you. I personally will treasure your voice, talent and all that you are Sylvester. You are truly a blessing in disguise. RIP
Im a huge Patti fan but all i can say is damn they sang the heck out of that song. I luv it!!!
These Three were put together by God. Sylvester, what can I say, that haunting voice sounds like a millions gospel choirs singing. Sending Chills through the body of anyone who heard him hit a note. R.I.P.
He was one of a kind there is no one like him
After watching his story on Unsung, I appreciate this diva even more! God placed him on this earth for a short while and we should be thankful that he graced the planet and make it fabulous and paved the way for many others. Never be ashamed to live out loud!
I have always loved this man's voice from the start. The 'DISCO' era belonged to HIM!!!!!This song took me THERE!!!! Have missed that VOICE..Peace
This song was played every Sunday on gospel showcase, never will forget
Voice like an angel... You are missed.
Sylvester will always be in my heart
How special to be able to live freely as he did and still be loved unconditionally. I can only imagine how huge of a star he would be today.
Those three together, make that song unforgettable....
I BEEN LOOKIN AROUND AND NEVA KNEW YOU WERE HERE ALL DA TIME!!,. MY FRIEND!!,.. OH I LOVE SYLVESTER!!
One of a kind. Sheer perfection.
I LOVE THIS SONG IT HAS TRUE MEANING OF FRIENDSHIP: -)
Who's here in 2021 with me? I saw Sylvester in Passaic NJ in the early 1980's. A true talent.
I really hope Martha puts soul music like this back into her set. She is still here but she is so much more than dance/club music.
All i can is shake my head listening to this....Love Sylvester!
Great talent. Thanks God for trailblazers like him.
I will always love Sylvester! Rest In Peace! You definitely created a legacy!
This makes me sad! I miss him so much!
Alexis Neal
carlos mcguire yes?
yes i just saw that
One of the Top Ten songs there ever was... AWESOME!!!
They were truly a dynamic threesome, Martha Wash and Isora Taylor...who could forget Two tons of Fun? Sylvester lives on...
Such a beautiful, rich, soulful voice. A true talent! RIP Sylvester
He is who he is but beyond that he or she was a hell of a singer.
all you need to say is he was a hell of a singer
Richard Lewis 💜💜
I know that Beautiful Patti LaBelle wrote and recorded this song, and I love it. But this was the version I heard first, and it touches my spirit so deeply. Sylvester, call him what you will, but he was real about himself, and you can't say Martha and Izora (RIP) didn't tear this song UP!!
this guy is the greatest he puts a lot of emotion into his . some friends I had didn't like him because he's gay but I'm not and I don't care the guys and awesome performer I've been listening to him since I was like 12 years old and his music is just timeless I miss him a lot since he passed away it was a very good blessing to have them on this Earth doing what he do best and that's music God bless you Sylvester rest in peace thank you for being here love you man.
Beautiful
@@susanatencio2555 thank you 😊 thank you 🙏 ❤️❤️❤️❤️
What a moving performance of one of the most beautiful songs about true love I have ever heard! RIP Sylvester.
Who can forget Ms Rhodes , she took us to church! And back again¡!!!
You know when I here this song I think about my brothers and sisters. What a beautiful song. Thank you Sylvester!
the people that hold the copyright to this song should release this to the public. great song fantastic performance
Sylvester is my "HERO" I was discovering the real me about the same time He made his entrance on the scene, he was the first and only gay black man I had ever seen so he instantly be came my role model, tho drag was not my forty, I really admired, respected and tried to imitate his courage, honesty and self-love. Sylvester and my loving Mama "Roberta" are the reasons why I'm a well adjusted and balanced gay black man with a high selfsteam (They are my Friend).
I love this version!!!
Wow! now i am NOT a religious person but they took me back there I have not heard this in a minute but when I did it made me feel good about having good people in my life...FRIENDS. As we age, we lose more and more of them. Let the church say AMEN..................
+steven anderson Amen!
CORRECTION... Patti wrote this for her sister who passed away...but I like Sylvester's take on this even better.
@pimpmamadeb - we were at a PATTI LABELLE concert in SF at the Warfield in the early 1980's - and she invited him on stage to sing a little with him. it was beautiful
Miss Sylvester holding church! LOVE IT!!!
These women can sing y'all !
This was always my favorite Sylvester song, such power in their voices.
Sylvester.......Gone way too soon.
"3 all time Greats" 💞
Before RuPaul, there was Sylvester. The original Eleganza Extravaganza!!
Sylvester was the moment ❤❤❤
i commented about this song 6 years ago and I'm still coming back to hear it play as I love it now as I loved it when I first heard it
HE WAS WHO HE WAS,NO APOLIGENICS NECCESSARY--BAD BROTHER!!!!
Baby you are fine as hell and damn can you sing! No one will ever be as bad as you were! Way ahead of your time. You are the total diva! No one comes close to you baby! RIP Sylvester.
A ONE OF A KIND PERFORMANCE ADD MS MARTHA WASH AND MS IZORA RHOADES =MAGICAL
Sylvester is still as relevant today as he were back in the Keystone Berkeley days of the 70s.... A Legend!! I'm glad our paths crossed...
I had a unce in-law.who was a good singer. Told me a story about Slyvester he sad if you think he can sing Disco is nothing to him singing Godspel. He told me everybody got the Holy Ghost.everybody was jumping for joy. So to all of his haters good luck to you I truly believe he had God given talent my Uncle and Aunt said it was as though he was singing just to you.
Gracias silvestre te amamos desde chile lo mas grande
Missing Sylvester. RIP
Allen, it just shows what an artist can do! Sylvester touched you in some way that an impression all these years later!!! that is what an true artist does!!!!!
And Sylvester is a defining artist in all facets!!!!
Oh Sylvester... with the voice of an angel! This song makes me cry... Why do all the great performers leave us way too early? But Thank You Lord for giving us Jacob Lusk...
#OnThisDay in 1988. Never. Forget. 🙏❤️
R.I.P. SYLVESTER JONES THE TRUE QUEEN OF DISCO...BOB IN CINCINNATI OHIO
Voice, yes indeed. Rest In Heaven..
I Love Both Versions Of This Song. But For Some Reason I Lean Towards This One.
RIP to Sylvester James and Izora Rhoades both. This is whata u call singin!!!
Absolutely fabulous
@Shell0517nj Patti & her former husband wrote this song for their son, Zuri. Sylvester, Izora, & Ms. Martha put their stank on it though. I love this.
Brother had CHOPS RIP music of life
beautiful!
Lordy Lordy....4:18 - 5:12 COVERS me in goosebumps. Martha's voice is a global treasure.
A great talent, great entertainer, one of a kind...thank God for him and we are blessed he shared that talent with the world.....
No replacement of him.i.loved him.Special.
Who can forget Ms Rhodes , she took us to church!
I miss him so much. I was a disco diva in the 70s. I was a student at fashion school and loved to get dressed up and dance on Thursdays and get up a 8:00 for classes. I loved doing the hustle and all the other couples dances. This was a happy time for music, fun, and folly at the clubs.
A legend 🙌🏼
Rest easy Sly. No worries now!
These women really can sang yall and dats includin Miss Sylvester.
Hearing this gives me soooo much energy...it makes me cry, laugh and holla.
There is nothing like the crowds participation...the emotion on stage and off is fo real yall, authentic love energy backed with some serious talent....thank God for Sylvester, Martha and Isora...they really do love each other...and "I will not forget it"
RIP to my 2 friends who passed this year.
YESSSSSSS INDEED!! SYLVESTER!! WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!!!!!
I love this song ....
The KILLED this song OMG this is incredible