IN PHOTOS: From Elton John to Manilow, musicians who have come out as gay

It's always a big deal whenever a celebrity comes out as gay because, with their stature, they can have a significant impact on the fight for LGBT rights.

Take for example Barry Manilow, who grabbed headlines Wednesday when he revealed his sexuality.

With that in mind, here's a look at other singers have come out as gay.

Barry Manilow, grabbed headlines Wednesday when he revealed his sexuality.

source: news.abs-cbn.com

Ricky Martin is gay

Ricky Martin the former member of the group called "menudo" revealed and acknowledge on Monday he's "proud to say that I am a fortunate homosexual man." Ricky Martin who has dodged questions of his sexuality for years -- just posted the following message on his official website: "I am proud to say that I am a fortunate homosexual man. I am very blessed to be who I am. Martin says the birth of his twin sons led to his decision to come out -- and according to the singer, "To keep living as I did up until today would be to indirectly diminish the glow that my kids where born with.

He admitted “fear and insecurity” had caused him to keep quiet about his sexuality in the past, but told of his “happiness” at finally revealing the truth.