Klaus Nomi

Klaus Nomi (born Klaus Sperber) (January 24, 1944–August 6, 1983) was a German counter-tenor and baritone singer and performer, noted for his remarkable vocal performances and unusual stage persona. When he died of AIDS-related illness in 1983, he was one of the first celebrities to die of the disease.

Related Topics:
January 24 - 1944 - August 6 - 1983 - German - Counter-tenor - Baritone - AIDS

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Nomi moved from Germany to New York City in the mid-1970s. He began his involvement with the art scene based in the East Village. After a chance meeting in a nightclub, David Bowie hired him and Joey Arias as back-up singers for a performance on Saturday Night Live in 1979. Nomi also collaborated with Manny Parrish.

Related Topics:
Germany - New York City - 1970s - East Village - David Bowie - Joey Arias - Saturday Night Live - 1979 - Manny Parrish

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Nomi is remembered for his bizarrely theatrical live performances, sporting heavy make-up, unusual costumes, and highly-stylized hairdos. His songs were just as unusual, ranging from synthesizer-laden interpretations of classic opera to covers of songs like Chubby Checker's The Twist.

Related Topics:
Synthesizer - Opera - Chubby Checker - The Twist

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In the 1990s, Nomi was frequently mentioned in Dennis Miller's monologues as one of his favorite obscure references.

Related Topics:
1990s - Dennis Miller

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Talk radio host Rush Limbaugh will often play Nomi's cover of Lesley Gore's You Don't Own Me on his program (as introductory music for news items regarding homosexuality).

Related Topics:
Rush Limbaugh - Lesley Gore - You Don't Own Me - Homosexuality

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