George Michael

ABOUT

George Michael was an iconic British singer, songwriter, and record producer. Born Georgios Kyriacos Panayiotou on June 25, 1963, in East Finchley, London, he rose to fame in the 1980s as a member of the musical duo Wham! before launching a highly successful solo career. With his strong, soulful voice and charismatic stage presence, Michael sold over 100 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling music artists of all time.

Michael's career was marked by numerous hit singles, including "Careless Whisper," "Faith," and "Freedom! '90." His contributions to music and popular culture have left an indelible mark, earning him several awards, including two Grammy Awards and three Brit Awards.

BEFORE FAME

George Michael's musical journey began relatively early. During his teenage years, he formed a band called The Executive with his friend Andrew Ridgeley. Although the band did not achieve commercial success, it laid the groundwork for what would become Wham! in 1981. Wham! quickly gained popularity with catchy pop hits and youthful exuberance, capturing the hearts of fans worldwide with songs like "Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go" and "Last Christmas."

Michael's talent was undeniable, and it wasn't long before he sought to establish himself as a solo artist. Following the amicable split of Wham! in 1986, he released his debut solo album, "Faith," in 1987, which catapulted him to international superstardom. The album included hits that showcased his versatility and musical prowess, setting the stage for a remarkable solo career.

TRIVIA

• Philanthropy: George Michael was known for his generosity and philanthropic efforts. He quietly donated millions to various charities, including those supporting children, HIV/AIDS victims, and the LGBT community.
• Legal Issues: Michael had several run-ins with the law throughout his career, including arrests related to drug possession and public incidents. Despite these challenges, he remained a respected and beloved figure in the music industry.
• Influences: Michael cited artists such as David Bowie, Elton John, and Queen as significant influences on his music and career.

FAMILY LIFE

George Michael was born into a close-knit family of mixed heritage. His father, Kyriacos Panayiotou, was a Greek Cypriot restaurateur, and his mother, Lesley Angold, was an English dancer. Michael had two sisters, Yioda and Melanie (who passed away on December 25, 2019, exactly three years after Michael's death).

Michael's personal life was often the subject of media scrutiny, particularly regarding his sexuality. He came out as gay publicly in 1998 after years of speculation, advocating for LGBT rights and using his platform to support the community.

ASSOCIATED WITH

Throughout his career, George Michael collaborated with a slew of artists across various genres. Notable collaborations include:

• Elton John: Michael performed a duet with Elton John on the song "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me," which became a number-one hit.
• Aretha Franklin: He teamed up with the Queen of Soul for the duet "I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me)," which also reached number one on the charts.
• Queen: Michael performed with the legendary band during the Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert in 1992, delivering a memorable rendition of "Somebody to Love."

George Michael passed away on December 25, 2016, at the age of 53, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking music and profound cultural impact. His influence continues to resonate with fans and musicians alike, solidifying his status as a true music legend.