Main content

Mighty Real: Sylvester James

David McAlmont tells the fabulous tale of gay black diva Sylvester James, famed for his disco hit Mighty Real.

David McAlmont travels to San Francisco to tell the glittering and sad tale of gay black diva Sylvester James, famed for his disco hit Mighty Real. Sylvester's short life says much about U.S. civil rights movements, the politics of the American music business and the devastating effects of Aids. David talks to Sylvester's sister, friends and fellow performers, and visits the San Francisco Opera House, where Sylvester recorded his renowned live album Living Proof.

(Photo: Sylvester James. Credit: Fantasy Records Archives)

Available now

27 minutes

Last on

Mon 11 Jul 201606:32GMT

Broadcasts

  • Wed 6 Jul 201602:32GMT
  • Wed 6 Jul 201604:32GMT
  • Wed 6 Jul 201605:32GMT
  • Wed 6 Jul 201606:32GMT
  • Wed 6 Jul 201612:32GMT
  • Wed 6 Jul 201615:32GMT
  • Mon 11 Jul 201606:32GMT