Top 10 Secrets About George Michael

George Michael was more than just one of the most successful pop stars of all time. Throughout his career, he demonstrated a level of compassion and generosity that few mainstream artists have matched. His philanthropy extended far beyond his music, as he made sure to give back to those less fortunate on a global scale. He supported charities such as Childline, WHAM!Aid, and Band Aid. He was also known to be a passionate advocate for LGBT rights, and even gave away the royalties from his hit single “Outside” to help fight homophobia in the United Kingdom.

1. George Michael was born Georgios Kyriacos Panayiotou in London, England on 25 June 1963.
2. He had a difficult childhood; both his father and his mother were working class Cypriot immigrants who often struggled to make ends meet.
3. He began performing with the band Wham! in the early 1980s, which skyrocketed him to international fame.
4. He was the first Western artist to perform in post-communist China in 1985, and was met with thunderous applause from the Chinese audience.
5. George Michael recorded some of the most iconic songs of the 1980s, including “Faith,” “Careless Whisper,” and “Freedom! ’90.”
6. His music often had a deep emotional connection with his fans, and he was known to be an incredibly honest songwriter.
7. He won two Grammy Awards in 1988 for Best Album and Best Single of the Year for Faith.
8. In 1997, George Michael performed for Queen Elizabeth II on her birthday, making him the first solo artist to ever do so.
9. He was an animal lover, and cared for a variety of pets throughout his life.
10. George Michael passed away on 25 December 2016 at the age of 53 after suffering from heart failure.

George Michael’s influence as a musician and philanthropist will continue to impact generations of people around the world for years to come. His discography has become iconic, and the charitable work he did during his lifetime will serve as a lasting legacy. He was an artist who inspired hope and positivity in a time when those qualities were desperately needed. Even after his passing, George Michael’s music continues to reach people of all ages, races, genders, and sexual orientations. He truly was one of the greatest voices of our time.