Today, country star Ty Herndon made the courageous decision to come out as gay. The 51-year-old star told People magazine that he's "An out, proud and happy gay man."

"My mother probably knew I was gay before I did," Herdon said. "I remember sitting down with her and having the conversation. She was more concerned about me having a happy life. You have to be able to do that in your own skin, and [my family] has seen me struggle with being gay my whole career."

And though the Nashville singer felt like he had to keep that part of himself secret for his entire career—despite coming out to close friends and family in his twenties—his decision inspired another country musician to come out.

Herdon's public revelations spurred much support from the community, and his honesty gave another close friend, country singer Billy Gilman, the courage to come out to his fans.

In a video diary posted to YouTube, Gilman details the struggle he's endured over rumors about his sexuality.

"Today, a fellow country artist and friend made it easier for me to make this video," Gilman began, "And I wanted my fans, who have stuck by me for many years to know."

"Being a gay male country artist is not the best thing," he continued. "You know, if people don’t like your music, that's one thing. But after having sold over 5 million records, and having a wonderful life in the music industry, I knew something was wrong when no major label wanted to sit down and have a meeting and listen to the new stuff. I'd do a showcase in Nashville and no major labels would show.

"It's difficult for me to make this video, not because I'm ashamed of being a gay male artist... but it's pretty silly to know that I'm ashamed of doing this because I'm in a genre and an industry that's ashamed of me for being me."

Gilman ended the clip noting that he wanted to approach the issue as an advocate. "I can honestly say I am scared to death, but I thank each and every one of you for your support."

Herndon shared those same sentiments in his own interview, saying "I just want to show up for the causes that I believe in. And be able to walk down the street and hold this man's hand that will be my husband one day, and I know we'll have kids one day."

To learn more about anti-LGBT bias check out MTV's Look Different campaign.