Channel 4 have commissioned a documentary detailing how gay clubs and culture have influenced the musical mainstream over the last 40 years.

Queer As Pop (a working title) will explore how pop music has been influenced by the political and social liberation of gay men, from the repealing of laws banning homosexuality through to disco, David Bowie, the New Romantics, house music and beyond.

The programme is part of a trio of music documentaries set to air next month, including a history of rock focusing on the likes of The Who and Led Zeppelin and another programme looking at the enduring appeal of folk music.

Nile Rodgers, Paul Oakenfold, Jake Shears (pictured with Scissor Sisters above) and Erasure’s Andy Bell are all featured on the programme, which will be broadcast along with two live concerts – Chic and Nile Rodgers at the iTunes Festival and Kylie Minogue’s Showgirl tour in London in 2006.

Disco pioneer Rodgers has reclaimed his pop crown this year with a string of collaborations, most recently teaming up with UK dance duo Disclosure, singer Sam Smith and songwriter Jimmy Napes for new single ‘Together’ – hear it below.