George Michael 1963 – 2016

Acclaimed British pop singer-songwriter George Michael has died at the age of 53. Michael passed away yesterday at his home in England, according to a statement issued by his family.

Born Georgios Kyriacos Panayiotou, he rose to fame in the early-1980s alongside Andrew Ridgeley in Wham!, selling hundreds of millions of records worldwide. Michael wrote many of the duo’s hits, including “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go,” “Freedom” and “Last Christmas.”

Michael’s solo career following his departure from Wham! furthered his commercial success as he became a cultural icon. His debut LP, 1987’s Faith, produced such hit singles as the title track, “I Want Your Sex” and “Father Figure.” He collaborated on chart-topping recordings with Aretha Franklin, Queen and Elton John while continuing to issue well-received solo albums throughout the 1990s. His fifth solo studio album, Patience, was released in 2004. A live album, Symphonica, was issued in 2014.

A statement provided by Michael’s representatives 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.

Michael was nominated earlier this year for the Songwriters Hall Of Fame. Many of his friends and former collaborators have shared their condolences on social media, including Ridgeley, view them below:

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