George Michael
The Voice of My Generation
George Michael
(June 25, 1963 – December 25, 2016)
English singer-songwriter and philanthropist
Few artists have left a mark on pop music—or me—quite like George Michael.
Born Georgios Kyriacos Panayiotou on June 25, 1963, in London, George first topped the charts as one-half of the iconic duo Wham!, along with friend Andrew Ridgeley.
Wham! brought the world irresistible hits like "Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go" and "Last Christmas." The first continues to put a smile on my face. And the late continues to my warm—and break—my heart every holiday season. Especially since his tragic death on December 25, 2016.
After Wham! disbanded in 1986, George Michael embarked on a solo career that solidified his status as a pop music legend. “Careless Whisper” was his first single. And that soulful classic reached #1 around the world.
His debut album—Faith, released in 1987—was a cultural phenomenon, blending catchy hooks, sultry vocals, and groundbreaking music videos.
Who could forget the swagger of "Faith," with George’s leather jacket and iconic aviator sunglasses, or the raw emotion of "Father Figure"? The album earned him a Grammy Award for Album of the Year and remains a staple of 1980s pop.
George’s artistry extended far beyond his debut.
His second solo album—Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1, released in 1990—showcased a more introspective and socially-conscious side of this pop icon.
The hauntingly beautiful "Praying for Time" and the rebellious sincerity of "Freedom! ’90" cemented his reputation as a fearless and versatile singer-songwriter.
"Freedom! ’90" also gave us one of the most iconic music videos of all time, featuring supermodels like Naomi Campbell and Cindy Crawford lip-syncing the lyrics in place of George himself.
As both a performer and a songwriter, George Michael was magnetic.
One of my favorite live appearances is his rendition of "Somebody to Love" with Queen at the Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert in 1992.
George’s powerful, soulful vocals and commanding stage presence proved he could stand shoulder-to-shoulder with rock royalty.
Another standout moment was his performance of "Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me" with Elton John, a duet so moving it became a chart-topping single.
Throughout his career, George Michael was unapologetically himself, a queer pioneer who faced public trials and tribulations with grace. His eventual openness about his sexuality and his advocacy for LGBTQ rights made him a hero to many, even as he battled personal challenges and media scrutiny.
George Michael passed away on December 25, 2016, at just 53 years old, leaving behind a legacy of unforgettable music and an indelible impact on the world.
From the carefree exuberance of Wham! to the soulful introspection of his solo work, George’s music remains a gift that keeps on giving.
Whether I’m dancing to "Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go," shedding a tear to "Jesus to a Child," or marveling at his live performances, there’s no denying that George Michael was a once-in-a-lifetime talent.
To me, he was, is, and always will be, the voice of a generation.
Clint
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