Kevin Aviance

Towering, Black, and bald, drag icon Kevin Aviance became an underground sensation in the late-’90s gay dance scene, releasing music through the Wave label and taking his drag show on the road. Inspired largely by Grace Jones, but also citing Boy George as an influence, Aviance made a name for himself primarily in New York’s thriving gay scene, affiliating himself with other gay dance icons like Junior Vasquez, who spun records. It wasn’t long before tracks like “Cunty,” an aggressive update of “Din Da Da,” and the S&M-tinged “Rhythm Is My Bitch” became well-known, leading to the eventual release of Aviance’s full-length debut, Box of Chocolates. ~ Jason Birchmeier