The Australian music icon, who serves as adviser in 'The Voice Australia' for the Delta Goodrem team, posted a letter to himself in his website. This was in celebration of his 40th birthday and advices his self on dealing with his sexual preference and being bullied way back when he was 15.

Below is an excerpt from his letter which reminds himself of his self-value and genuine character:

"Right about now I imagine you are just starting to realise there is something special about you Darren Hayes. What I want you to know is, the thing that made you a target is the thing that makes you beautiful. There will be times in your life where you will try to dull down your magic because it draws too much attention. But please don't do that. Please remember to shine because one day people are going to pay a lot of money to see you light up."

Hayes came out of the closet during the early 2000s. Six years later, the singer went into civil partnership with Richard Cullen.

Darren Hayes is not the only gay icon who has made it big in the music industry. Other personalities include Elton John, Freddy Mercury, R.E.M.'s Michael Stripe, The Village People, Boy George, Adam Lambert and many more.

These people have risen up against all odds to prove that their talent and love for music is enough to let them be treated like the rest in their chosen craft.

Check out the slideshow for the rest of the popular gay artists in the industry

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