Klaus Nomi

Klaus Nomi was born in Germany in 1944. In his early life he worked as an usher at the Deutsche Oper (maybe this later inspired his tuxedo costumes?) After his was done working he would perform opera pieces on stage for the other ushers.

After moving to NY in 1971 Nomi worked as a pastry chef in order to make money while taking singing lessons. His first performance that he came public with in New York was the "New Wave Vaudeville" (1978) which excited the audience to an extent where they were left with  the goosebumps.

Later on, Nomi was known for his unique , "circus" looking style with his pale face, dramatic makeup, and receding hairline. Besides his appearance, he was also known for having the voice of a castrato.

Klaus Nomi was instantly hired by David Bowie to perform as a background singer for Bowie's performance on Saturday Night Live 1979.

Nomi has an interesting style of music. Other than being known for his incredible opera voice that reached unbelievable ranges, he also did various covers of pop art in the 80's.

Nomi unfortunately suffered from AIDs and died due to AIDs complications at the age of 39.
He was one of the first gay celebrities to die of AIDS.