Music Discussions

It is easy to forget about the huge impact that HIV/AIDS has had around the world. And it is easy to think of this as a disease that only affects people in developing countries. However, this is definitely not the case; even celebrities from some of the richest nations on Earth can be – and are – afflicted with this devastating ailment.

To drive home the fact that this is a world-wide issue, not just some disease that only affects those far away from us, lets look at several famous musicians affected by HIV. Andy Bell, who is probably best known for his work with Erasure, announced that was HIV positive in 2004. Holly Johnson of Frankie Goes to Hollywood announced having HIV in 1993. Freddie Mercury, the late lead singer of Queen, succumbed to AIDS in 1991.

Musicians – as well as other figures in the public eye – are in a unique position since many people admire them (especially impressionable youth) and listen when they speak. They can, and many have, taken this opportunity to promote AIDS awareness and to encourage those who look up to them to avoid high risk behaviors. Hopefully others will have the courage to step forward and help fight the stigma associated with this disease. World AIDS day would be a great time for them to start.