It almost seemed like fake news, a term that’s been thrown around quite a bit in 2o16, this most bitter of years. George Michael, former Wham! singer, successful solo artist, and the author of “Last Christmas,” a song many had probably listened to that day, dead at 53 on Christmas Day. However, it turned out to be true, and while the full details of why he died aren’t public yet, he left quite a legacy. What’s that have to do with metal? Well, 30 years ago, Michael was one of the most popular pop stars in the world, mentioned in the same breath as Madonna and Michael Jackson. His music was many musicians’ first cassette or CD. And while writers block and personal problems had caused his career to slow down, he touched many (and even gave a certain Jacksonville nu-metal band their first boost into the spotlight). Here’s what the community has to say about his passing:
Fuck.
FUCK.
— 0️⃣Fux ⬇️0️⃣Fux🗓 (@CoreyTaylorRock) December 25, 2016
Hate 2 break Xmas spirit, but sad news re George Michael. After Wham! he took chances, sat in w Queen even liked G’n’R (Axl quote below) RIP pic.twitter.com/uk8H8E4Gk3
— Alex Skolnick (@AlexSkolnick) December 25, 2016
So sad to hear that George Michael has passed away. We were both managed by LIPPMAN & KAHANE. What a tragic loss to a tremendous talent.
— Dave Mustaine (@DaveMustaine) December 26, 2016
George Michael has died. An amazing talent and a lovely man. Condolences to family. So sad. https://t.co/QRYZdEZx3q
— Paul Stanley (@PaulStanleyLive) December 26, 2016
2016 – one more “fuck you” for the road. It just took George Michael like Gandalf getting flame lassoed by the… https://t.co/vZWedc4Tvl
— Doc Coyle (@DocCoyle) December 26, 2016
