Sound Barrier: Sylvester

With his most commercial record in years, Sylvester signs with a major label, becomes the face of a movement, plants a flag for Black musical excellence with an iconic performance, and is honored by his chosen hometown. In the season finale, Sylvester’s fabulousness transcends his own life, and lights the way for generations of intersectional artists to come. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sylvester goes broke, makes history on MTV and returns to his Pentecostal  roots as AIDS ravages his community. But at the same time, Sylvester discovers the greatest love of his life – and makes some of the most meaningful music of his career. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sylvester loses some of his closest creative collaborators — some to success, others to a mysterious disease that doesn’t have a name yet — and he starts a new chapter with a small label run by old friends. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Between the racist backlash to disco, the late ‘70s record industry collapse, and a bizarre case of mistaken identity, superstardom is a mixed blessing for Sylvester. His follow-up album is an expensive commercial disappointment, and he’s got to scramble to keep up with the changing times. This episode features never-before aired audio from his legendary 1979 concert at the San Francisco War Memorial Opera House. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sylvester always thought disco was tacky, but he really wants a hit record. So he finally embraces the popular sound – and rockets to superstardom. He’s the toast of Europe. His songs win Grammys. But at the same time, mistrust and shady dealings with management are pushing his band to the breaking point. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices