ADVERTISEMENT

Madonna, Elton John lead tributes for late singer

Elton John also published a picture of himself with Michael, saying: "I am in deep shock. I have lost a beloved friend - the kindest, most generous soul and a brilliant artist".

Elton John has expressed his shock at the death of George Michael, calling him the kindest, most generous soul and a brilliant artist

"Farewell my Friend! Another Great Artist leaves us. Can 2016 Fuck Off NOW?" Madonna wrote in a post on Instagram accompanied by a video of her presenting Michael with an award.

Michael shot to fame with the 1980s band Wham! and sold over 100 million albums in his career, winning two Grammies and three Brit awards.

Referring to him by his nickname "Yog" (Yours Only George), Wham! co-star Andrew Ridgeley said he was "heartbroken" by Michael's death.

ADVERTISEMENT

Many reactions referred to the spate of music world deaths in 2016, starting with David Bowie in January.

Singers Prince and Leonard Cohen also died this year and Status Quo guitarist Rick Parfitt passed away on Saturday in a Spanish hospital.

"2016 - loss of another talented soul. All our love and sympathy to George Michael's family," the band Duran Duran, who were 1980s contemporaries of Wham!, said on their official Twitter account.

Spandau Ballet, a British band which formed in the late 1970s, wrote: "We are incredibly sad at the passing of our dear friend George Michael. A brilliant artist & great songwriter."

Newer pop stars also paid tribute to the influential London-born artist, who was planning to release a new album and a documentary next year.

ADVERTISEMENT

"Oh God no... I love you George... Rest in peace," wrote pop star Robbie Williams, while fellow singer Pixie Lott paid tribute on Twitter to the "beautiful and talented" Michael.

In the United States, Recording Academy president Neil Portnow said he was "deeply saddened" by the loss.

"During an influential career that spanned nearly four decades, George became one of the most beloved pop craftsmen and respected entertainers," said Portnow, whose organisation awards the Grammies.

"From the enormous success he achieved with pop duo Wham! to his influential solo career, his extraordinary talent had a profound impact on countless entertainers worldwide, and his creative contributions will live on forever," he said.

Canadian musician Bryan Adams tweeted: "I can't believe it. Such an incredible singer and a lovely human being, far too young to leave us."

ADVERTISEMENT

US singer La Toya Jackson wrote: "You have given the world an amazing gift! What a talent! What a loss!".

-- 'Your music will live on' --

Tributes came in from outside the music world too.

Football presenter and former England captain Gary Lineker tweeted: "No, not George Michael as well. Another musical great leaves us this year. 2016 can just sod off."

"Star Trek" actor George Takei referred to some of Michael's greatest hits in a tweet, writing: "Rest with the glittering stars, George Michael. You've found your Freedom, your Faith. It was your Last Christmas, and we shall miss you."

ADVERTISEMENT

London Mayor Sadiq Khan said Michael "brought joy to millions of us" and British opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn hailed Michael as a "strong supporter" of gay and workers' rights.

Following years of speculation about his sexuality, Michael came out as gay in 1998 after being arrested for committing a lewd act in the public toilet of a Los Angeles park.

The gay rights charity Stonewall said: "You inspired many and your music will live on in the hearts of the community. You will be sorely missed."

JOIN OUR PULSE COMMUNITY!

Unblock notifications in browser settings.
ADVERTISEMENT

Eyewitness? Submit your stories now via social or:

Email: eyewitness@pulse.ng

Recommended articles

Eniola Ajao apologises for naming Bobrisky best-dressed female at movie premiere

Eniola Ajao apologises for naming Bobrisky best-dressed female at movie premiere

NFVCB wants to stop skits, Nollywood films from encouraging crimes

NFVCB wants to stop skits, Nollywood films from encouraging crimes

Ebuka Obi-Uchendu knew he'd marry his wife a month into their relationship

Ebuka Obi-Uchendu knew he'd marry his wife a month into their relationship

Candy Bleakz raises her artistry on 'Better Days' EP

Candy Bleakz raises her artistry on 'Better Days' EP

Whoopi Goldberg has confirmed a 'Sister Act 3' is in the works

Whoopi Goldberg has confirmed a 'Sister Act 3' is in the works

Mardeee set to release highly anticipated single 'AWAY' on February 23

Mardeee set to release highly anticipated single 'AWAY' on February 23

Adesua Etomi pens heartwarming note to hubby Banky W on his birthday

Adesua Etomi pens heartwarming note to hubby Banky W on his birthday

Showmax, Infinix mobile to offer unparalleled viewing experience to viewers

Showmax, Infinix mobile to offer unparalleled viewing experience to viewers

I auditioned for Big Brother Nigeria on a dare - Ebuka Obi-Uchendu

I auditioned for Big Brother Nigeria on a dare - Ebuka Obi-Uchendu

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT