George Michael, born Georgios Kyriacos Panayiotou, rose to fame in the 1980s as part of the pop duo Wham! before embarking on a successful solo career. His debut solo album, "Faith” sold over 25 million copies and won multiple awards, including a Grammy for Album of the Year. Michael's music, characterized by its catchy melodies and emotional depth, includes hits like "Careless Whisper” "Faith” and "Last Christmas”. Despite facing public scandals and legal battles, Michael's talent and philanthropy left an indelible mark on the music industry. He passed away on December 25, 2016, but his legacy continues to inspire and entertain fans worldwide.
George Michael’s Career Highlights
1981 George Michael (born Georgios Kyriacos Panayiotou) and Andrew Ridgeley formed the pop duo Wham! in the UK.
1983 Wham! released their debut album, "Fantastic” which included hits like "Young Guns (Go for It!)" and "Wham Rap! (Enjoy What You Do)."
1984 Wham!'s second album, "Make It Big” featured global hits such as "Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” "Careless Whisper” and "Freedom."
1986 Wham! disbanded after a farewell concert at Wembley Stadium, and George Michael embarked on a solo career.
1987 Released his debut solo album, "Faith” which included hits like "Faith” "Father Figure” and "One More Try”. The album sold over 25 million copies worldwide.
1990 Released the critically acclaimed album "Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1” featuring hits like "Praying for Time" and "Freedom! '90."
1996 Released the album "Older” which included hits like "Fastlove" and "Jesus to a Child."
1998 Arrested for "engaging in a lewd act" in a public restroom in Beverly Hills, which he later addressed in his music.
2004 Released the album "Patience” which included the hit single "Amazing."
2016 George Michael passed away on December 25, 2016, due to heart and liver disease.
George Michael’s Bands
Wham! (1981–1986)
Formed with Andrew Ridgeley, Wham! became one of the most successful pop duos of the 1980s.
He collaborated with many great artists including Elton John
George Michael’s Grammy Awards
1989 Album of the Year: Won for "Faith"
Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal Won for his duet with Aretha Franklin, "I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me)."
3 Most Famous George Michael Songs
1. "Careless Whisper" (1984)~
- One of his most iconic songs, "Careless Whisper" was a massive hit worldwide, known for its memorable saxophone riff and emotional lyrics.
2. "Faith" (1987)
- The title track from his debut solo album, "Faith" became an anthem of the 1980s, showcasing Michael's versatility and charisma.
3. "Last Christmas" (1984)
- A perennial holiday favorite, this Wham! song remains a festive staple and one of the best-selling Christmas songs of all time.
George Michael Quotes
On music
I still believe that music is one of the greatest gifts that God gave to man.
On life
I am a lucky man. I've had such a blessed life. But I've had my share of suffering, too.
George Michael Scandal/Gossip/Trivia
- Public Scandals: Michael's arrest in 1998 for "engaging in a lewd act" brought significant media attention and led to his coming out as gay. He handled the incident with humor and honesty, addressing it in his music video for "Outside."
- Philanthropy: Despite his controversies, George Michael was known for his philanthropy. He quietly donated millions to various charities and supported numerous causes, often without seeking recognition.
- Legal Battles: Michael had a well-publicized legal battle with his record label, Sony Music, in the early 1990s, seeking to end his contract due to creative differences. Although he lost the case, it highlighted the struggles artists often face with record companies.
- Secret Generosity: Stories of his anonymous generosity surfaced after his death, including paying for a woman’s IVF treatment and volunteering at a homeless shelter.
George Michael ratings
