About the song
Background
- Chic Collaboration: The song was created by Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards of the legendary disco group Chic. They were commissioned by Diana Ross to craft a new album for her after she was blown away by their live performance.
- Inspiration from Drag Queens: Nile Rodgers saw a group of Diana Ross impersonators at a drag club in New York City. This experience was the primary inspiration for the song’s title and central theme.
- Double Meaning: The song functioned on two levels:
- LGBTQ+ Anthem: For the LGBTQ+ community, “coming out” is a powerful statement of self-declaration and pride.
- Ross’s Independence: On a more personal level, it symbolized Diana Ross breaking free from Motown founder Berry Gordy and asserting her creative control.
Lyrics
Here are some key lines and their interpretations:
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“I’m coming out, I want the world to know / Got to let it show” : A bold declaration of self and a desire to live life authentically and without hiding.
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“There’s a new me coming out / And I just had to live”: Suggests transformation, liberation, and embracing a new chapter of life.
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“The time has come for me to break out of the shell / I have to shout that I’m coming out”: The imagery of breaking out of a shell signifies both leaving restrictive situations and coming out of the closet.
Themes
- Self-Acceptance and Authenticity: Embracing one’s true identity, regardless of societal expectations.
- Liberation and Empowerment: The thrill and joy of breaking free from restrictions or oppressive situations.
- Celebration of Individuality: Celebrating the right to be unique, different, and to live without shame or apology.
Legacy
“I’m Coming Out” became an instant disco anthem, but more importantly, it developed into a powerful and enduring anthem for the LGBTQ+ community. The song’s themes of self-acceptance, pride, and freedom continue to resonate across generations.
Video
Lyrics
I’m coming out
I’m coming
I’m coming out
I’m coming out
I’m coming out
I’m coming out
I want the world to know
Got to let it show
I’m coming out
I want the world to know
I got to let it show
There’s a new me coming out
And I just had to live
And I wanna give
I’m completely positive
I think this time around
I am gonna do it
Like you never knew it
Ooh, I’ll make it through
The time has come for me
To break out of this shell
I have to shout
That I am coming out
I’m coming out
I want the world to know
I got to let it show
I’m coming
I’m (coming out) coming
(I want the world to know)
(I got to let it show)
I’ve got to show the world
All that I wanna be
And all my abillities
There’s so much more to me
Somehow, I have to make them
Just understand
I got it well in hand
And, oh, how I’ve planned
I’m spreadin’ love
There is no need to fear
And I just feel so good
Everytime I hear
I’m coming out
Coming
(I want the world to know)
(I got to let it show)
I’m coming out
I want the world to know
I got to let it show
[Instrumental Interlude]
I’m coming out
I want the world to know
Got to let it show…. scat to end