Following the tragic news that George Michael has passed away, friends and admirers from the entertainment world have lovingly expressed just what an impact his music and life had on them.
The 53-year-old singer passed away peacefully in his home last night. A statement from his publicist read:
“It is with great sadness that we can confirm our beloved son, brother and friend George passed away peacefully at home over the Christmas period. The family would ask that their privacy be respected at this difficult and emotional time. There will be no further comment at this stage."
Billboard magazine quoted Michael’s manager Michael Lippman as saying the singer had died of heart failure.
After selling more than 25 million records as a member of Wham! alongside Andrew Ridgeley, Michael continued to have a stellar solo career. He sold more than 100 million records worldwide and in the process, garnered seven number one singles in the UK and eight number one hits on the Billboard Hot 100.
He also won a plethora of music awards throughout his 30-year career, including three Brit Awards, four Ivor Novello Awards, three American Music Awards, and two Grammy Awards from eight nominations.
As the news sinks in, famous fans of the singer are taking to Twitter to express their condolences. RIP George Michael.
https://twitter.com/ajridgeley/status/813176997174280192
https://twitter.com/duranduran/status/813162181244157957
https://twitter.com/disclosure/status/813164307517149184
https://twitter.com/VancityReynolds/status/813181634015010816
https://twitter.com/JKCorden/status/813169352111329280
https://twitter.com/grahnort/status/813198528646356992
https://twitter.com/Madonna/status/813193931546628096
In what could be the clearest indication of his remarkable talent, take a look at George Michael covering a song that was made famous by arguably the greatest frontman of all time.
He was such a remarkable talent.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oYAR8RigqDA
Feature: Michael Putland / Getty Images
