There are times when it’s OK to be a little emotional in public…and this is one example.
I was devastated when I learned that George Michael had tragically passed away on Christmas Day at his home in Goring-on-Thames, Oxfordshire.
He was the last person I thought would die – and so young too. I knew him (sort of)… well I did, actually.
I had met George many times in my life – we grew up in similar circles, danced on the same dance floors in top nightclubs around the world, I attended his private parties and I knew many of his close friends and even some of his relatives. A light went out in the music world when George Michael died.
So it is quite fitting that (finally) Sir Elton Johnhas paid tribute to George hailing him “one of the best vocalists ever”. He was, George Michael was one of the best singers of our time… You couldn’t beat him at his best.
Sir Elt’ shared a special bond with the former Wham! star and says he should be remembered for his “wonderful music” and generosity. Indeed.
Speaking about the ‘Careless Whisper’ singer on his Apple Beats 1 radio show, the ‘Tiny Dancer’ hitmaker said: “I wanted to do a little tribute to him on the show because not only was he a good friend, but he was probably one of the most brilliant songwriters this country’s ever produced, and certainly one of the best vocalists ever. One of the best in the world.”
On the close friendship they shared: “It was an amazing friendship based on music to start with, and I remember sitting in the car just off of Hyde Park listening to a cassette of ‘Wake Me Up Before You Go Go’ and I said, ‘George, that’s the nearest record I’ve heard to a Motown record for years and years’.
“It was such a great record, and he and I became great friends.”
Since his death many people have been coming forward to share the Last Christmas singer’s secret acts of kindness, and Elton, 69, says his “humanity” will be sorely missed.
He added: “I just want to remember him for his wonderful music and his kindness, which people are commenting on.”
“He was the kindest, most generous man, and did it without wanting any publicity.
“I’ve seen him being so kind to so many people. I’ll miss him so much for his music but more than anything his humanity.”
It was previously reported that Elton was planning to sing at George’s funeral, reminiscent of his tribute at Princess Diana’s memorial service. However, the funeral has experienced continued delays as the singer’s body is yet to be released with the coroner conducting further toxicology tests to determine the cause of his death.
Reports now suggest the late hitmaker’s funeral may not take place until March.
R.I.P George Michael.
