George Michael was a British singer, songwriter, and producer born Georgios Kyriacos Panayiotou on June 25, 1963, in London. Rising to fame in the 1980s as part of the duo Wham! with Andrew Ridgeley, Michael became a global sensation with hits like “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” and “Careless Whisper.” His solo career, launched with the 1987 album Faith, solidified his status as a pop icon, with tracks such as “Father Figure” and “One More Try” showcasing his soulful voice and songwriting prowess. Michael’s music often explored themes of love, identity, and social issues, blending pop, soul, and R&B influences. Over his career, he sold over 100 million records and won numerous awards, including two Grammys. Michael was also an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and charity work. He passed away on December 25, 2016, but his influence and legacy as one of the most talented and beloved artists of his generation remain enduring.