We need a break from current events and figured you might too. And it’s Liberace’s birthday May 16! So sit back, relax, and let the music and story of one of the world’s most fabulous entertainers ever wash over you.

Liberace was among the most successful, most popular and gayest entertainers of the 20th century. Although he wasn’t “out” — the concept barely existed in his lifetime — he was revolutionary, paving the way for queer extravagance.

How big was Liberace? Huge. Hear about the famous entertainers he influenced and who opened for him back in the day. His television show aired in 20 countries and he broke attendance records at premier music halls from the 1950s to the mid ’80s. After he died of AIDS in 1987, his family still denied he was gay.

In this Out in the Bay feature first aired in 2009, you’ll hear Liberace’s music and story, and ‘see’ his spectacular costumes, described in colorful detail by a folksy Liberace Museum guide, a Liberace Foundation official, a tribute artist, and Liberace himself in an archival recording with the London Philharmonic Orchestra in 1983. Enjoy!