Results: I'm Coming Out, I Want The World To Know, Got To Let It Show

Despite the lyrics in the title, this Diana Ross song, "I'm Coming Out" is actually not about "coming out", although it has been used as an anthem for the LGBTQ community as such. The song was actually written for Diana as she prepared to leave her label, Motown Records. The phrase "coming out" to describe one's self-disclosure of sexual orientation or gender identity had been present in the gay subculture since the early 20th century. It has also been understood as "coming out of the closet" or coming out from hiding. The song is thus interpreted as a celebration of lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender, identity and the encouragement of self-disclosure. Do you know anyone who has "come out"?

Although not confirmed by Freddie Mercury, the iconic Queen song, "Bohemian Rhapsody" is widely believed to be his "coming out" song. Released over 40 years ago, in 1975, it is probably Queen's most famous song, and the meaning of the song has been debated for years. Mercury died without disclosing exactly what the song was about, amid speculation for years. If you know the song, do you think this was his "coming out" song?

Singer songwriter Calum Scott recently released a song that tells a painful part of his young adult life – processing the complex emotions of being a gay teen and letting the world around him aware of his sexual orientation. Friends abandoned him early on, and it hurt. But he found the courage to be honest about himself through music. "I know that there are people young and old struggling with the same questions, and living with that relentless fear and heartbreak. I make the music I do because I want to inspire the right kind of conversations. If one less kid can grow up without hiding who they are along the way or having to believe that who they love is something that will make them lonely, then everything I went through will be worth it." "No Matter What' is a beautiful ballad which tells the tale of Calum coming out to his parents, who reminded him that they love him "no matter what", and that they want him to always be happy and true to himself. Do you think songs like this can help those struggling with the very same emotions and doubts?

Here are some other songs that focus on the honest, but sometimes difficult decision, to finally "come out". Were you aware that these songs were about this very thing?