#18 – Andy Bell
The second Brit on our list, Andy Bell is one half of the famous British pop duo known as Erasure. Along with Vince Clarke, Bell enjoyed widespread success as Erasure became one of the biggest groups in the region during the 1980s with hits like “A Little Respect”, “Chains of Love” and “Always”.
Shortly after joining Vince Clarke in 1985, Bell announced to the world that he was openly gay in an interview with Melody Maker in 1986. Bell told reporters, “If you’re doing music, you should use it for something and have substance. Being gay and open about it is my substance.” In December 2004, Bell made another public announcement, this time telling his audience that he had been HIV positive for six years. Despite other health problems, Bell has managed to keep his virus in check and is still performing at 51 years old.
#17 – Chuck Panozzo
Keeping it in the family! Along with his twin brother, John, and keyboardist Dennis De Young, Chuck Panozzo formed the famous rock band, Styx, in 1970. Launching in the heart of Chicago, Styx took over the world with their progressive rock style releasing 15 albums filled with hits including “Lady”, “Come Sail Away”, “Babe”, “Best of Times” and “Mr.
Roboto”.
In 2001, Panozzo surprised his fans and the media by announcing that he was not only gay but was also living with HIV and AIDS. Since then, Panozzo has been very active in promoting AIDS awareness as well as fighting for equal rights for gay men and women. Despite his illness, the 67-year-old rocker continues to tour with the band and says, “My T-cells are up and I keep up with my prescription. I can’t complain…You have to have goals and faith in yourself.” In other words, just keep on rocking!
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