"I'm Coming Out" by Diana Ross

Top 10 Alert!

Song#:  0321
Date:  09/06/1980
Debut:  88
Peak:  5
Weeks:  23
Genre:  Pop, Dance



Pop Bits:  The same week her previous single, "Upside Down," hit #1, this second single from the highly successful "diana" album hit the chart. The success of this album came at the right time. Ross was looking to get out of her contract with Motown and this album (plus a few songs for a compilation album) would fulfill her obligations to the label. She was courted by several labels but she finally signed with RCA who offered a $20 million deal - at the time the biggest contract ever signed by a recording artist. The huge success of the "diana" album probably played a big role in securing this massive contract. Ross' desire to leave Motown most likely stems from her strained relationship with label head Berry Gordy. It has been said that this song held extra meaning for Ross after leaving the label because she was coming out from under Gordy's rule.

ReduxReview:  Another highly infectious dance number from "diana" and one that is celebratory, as opposed to the sexy groove of "Upside Down." I don't consider it as good as "Upside Down," but it is a terrific song and certainly a worthy follow-up. Unfortunately, years ago my childish brain created the alternate lyrics of "I'm throwin' up! I want the world to know, I got some chow to blow!" Ugh - it is still in my head whenever I hear this song. My apologies, Miss Ross.

ReduxRating:  7/10

Trivia:  Double Shot!  1) Co-writer Bernard Edwards got the idea for this song when he was at a NYC club and he saw three different drag queens dressed as Ross. In the gay community (already in love with Miss Ross), "coming out" was the act acknowledging and accepting who you are, as in "coming out of the closet." This song fit right in to that sentiment and has been a popular gay anthem since.  2) Prior to this hit, Ross had already amassed 20+ solo chart songs, but only five of them were Top 10 hits - and all five hit #1.  This song was Ross' first Top 10 hit not to reach #1.

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