On August 12, Texas singer-songwriter Michelle Mayfield wrote a now-famous open letter to her fans:

A Letter to My Fans; Date: Mon, 12 Aug 2002

Dear Fans and Friends,

First of all, I want to thank all of you for your continued support of me and my music. I have enjoyed the past year and am very excited about what is in my
future. However, there is a situation that has been brought to my attention that needs to be addressed.

At the present time, within my fanbase there is a significant group of people who have alternate sexual preferences. Please know that I appreciate my fanbase no matter who or what they are - I, in no way, shape, or form am complaining. However, as an artist, I am continually wanting to expand that fanbase - to mothers and fathers, to college students, to teenagers, etc. I honestly believe my music has the appeal to be able to do that. It is not only important to me personally, but it is imperative for my future ~ record executives are looking for artists with an established and significant following - they don't do very many "developmental" deals these days.

However, I have had several complaints from bar owners, friends, fans, and potential fans regarding the outwardly show of affection that has taken place at my shows. This type of behavior, right or wrong, reflects on me as the artist who has brought you to that club. Let me give you some examples:
1) I have several friends who will not ask their families, friends, or coworkers to shows because of this behavior and the potential negative reflection that may be projected upon them as fans of mine.

2) A gentleman from a show at "The Six of Clubs" made a comment in the men's bathroom, "What's going on here tonight? I thought this was a straight bar."

As an artist, I want to be known for my MUSIC. It is VERY IMPORTANT to me to NOT be stereotyped, pidgeonholed, or categorized in a way that will alienate anyone from listening or coming to see my shows. I do not want to become a Melissa Etheridge or a Patrice Pike (although I love them both and respect them very much as artists) - most people don't think about their music first.....they think of their sexual orientation - whether right or wrong, that's the way it is. Whether I am straight or gay, it is no one's business in the first place and I, personally, am not open to making that anyone's business. It should be about the music...period.

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