Pop star and international sensation, George Michael, passed away in his home, at the age of 53.
He is said to have “passed away peacefully at home” in Goring, Oxfordshire. Michael's publicist said: "It is with great sadness that we can confirm our beloved son, brother and friend George passed away peacefully at home over the Christmas period.
The Thames Valley Police said that the death is being treated as unexplained but not suspicious, and that a post-mortem will be undertaken.
Here are some things to know about the much beloved pop star:
- He was born in London and has sold more than 100 million albums throughout his career.
-He shot to fame with his school friend Ridgeley in the pop dual Wham!
-In 1987, his debut album ‘Faith’ sold more than 10 million copies.
- He won 2 Grammy Awards.
-He had a series of arrests for drugs and driving offences in his later years.
Condolences have been pouring in on social media:
RIP George Michael... Your music will stay with us forever...
— A.R.Rahman (@arrahman) December 26, 2016
I just heard about my friend @GeorgeMichael's death. He was such a brilliant talent. I'm so sad.
— Ellen DeGeneres (@EllenDeGeneres) December 25, 2016
https://twitter.com/WhoopiGoldberg/status/813201152804343809
Oh God no …I love you George …Rest In Peace x
— Robbie Williams (@robbiewilliams) December 26, 2016
We lost some much beloved music icons this year, including David Bowie, who broke the boundaries of pop and rock music, and who passed away after a long struggle with cancer.
We also lost Prince, who died at the age of 57, and who is known for his hits "Little Red Corvette," ''Let's Go Crazy" and "When Doves Cry".
Leonard Cohen passed away in November. The singer is best known for his song 'Hallelujah', which has been covered by countless other artists.
These legends may not be among us any more, but their music always will be.
Also Read: The queen of Indian, Classical, folk and pop: Shubha Mudgal