Chaka Khan Rejects ‘Straight Icon’ Label: “How Do You Know What I Am?”

Chaka Khan has pushed back against being described as a “straight icon” for queer visibility, saying her sexuality is a private matter.

In a recent interview with the British publication Observer, the Grammy-winning singer questioned the label after being called heterosexual. “How do you know what the f--- I am?” Khan said, according to writer Patrick Smith. “I don’t ever share that part of my life. That’s nobody’s business but mine.”

Khan said she considers herself an artist for everyone, regardless of their sexuality. “I am for everybody,” she said. “If your heart is in the right place, that’s all I care about.”

The singer has long been embraced by LGBTQ+ audiences, with her powerful performances and songs such as her 1978 hit “I’m Every Woman” becoming especially influential in queer culture.

Khan also discussed her personal life and dating after two divorces. She said she is not looking for a partner and described herself as “partnered out.”

Her upcoming album, “Chakzilla,” is scheduled for release in September.