Released on this day 44 years ago, March 14, 1982, My First Album marked the debut studio album of Divine, born as Harris Glenn Milstead (Towson, 19 oktober 1945 – Los Angeles, 7 maart 1988), the larger-than-life American singer, actor, and drag performer known for pushing the boundaries of pop culture. The album was a pioneering effort in the hi-NRG and dance-pop genres, solidifying Divine’s presence in the music industry after achieving underground fame through collaborations with filmmaker John Waters.
Produced by Bobby Orlando, a key figure in the development of hi-NRG and electronic dance music, My First Album was an energetic mix of pulsating beats, infectious hooks, and Divine’s deep, commanding vocals. The album featured some of Divine’s most iconic tracks, including "Native Love (Step by Step)", a club anthem that became an instant hit in the underground dance scene. The song’s catchy melody and pulsating bassline made it a favorite in discos worldwide, especially in Europe, where Divine had a significant fanbase.
Other standout tracks on the album included "Shoot Your Shot", another high-energy dance hit that solidified Divine as a club icon. The track’s aggressive beats and suggestive lyrics captured the provocative and rebellious essence of Divine’s persona. Songs like "Jungle Jezebel" and "Alphabet Rap" showcased Divine’s playful yet defiant approach to music, blending humor, camp, and danceable rhythms.
Although My First Album did not achieve mainstream chart success in the U.S., it found a strong audience in the European club scene, particularly in the UK, Germany, and the Netherlands, where Divine’s music became synonymous with LGBTQ+ club culture and the high-energy sound of the early ‘80s. The album’s bold, unapologetic style laid the groundwork for Divine’s subsequent releases and influenced future generations of drag performers and dance artists.
With My First Album, Divine proved that music could be just as outrageous and unfiltered as the persona behind it. The record remains a cult classic, celebrated for its boundary-pushing sound and Divine’s unforgettable presence in pop music history.
Divine - My First Album
A1 Shoot Your Shot 6:24
A2 Jungle Jezebel 4:42
A3 Native Love 3:56
B1 Kick Your Butt 5:22
B2 Alphabet Rap 6:32
B3 Native Love (Instrumental) 8:10
