Essentials

Monday, 26 December 2016

Farewell George

On December 25th 2016, Georgios Kyriacos Panayiotou or as many have called him George Michael; yes 'the' George Michael passed away peacefully in his home. Now for those who don't know, George Michael was an English singer who started his career as a member of the 80s band 'Wham'. But eventually, he moved on to become one of the most iconic musicians of the past 3 decades; creating such well-known songs such as 'Careless Whisper', 'Faith', 'Freedom' and my personal favourites 'Fastlove' and 'Amazing'. And for those who also don't know, I'm a huge fan of his work; for 12 years I've always had a love and admiration for him and his music. He's not only up there with Michael Jackson as one of my favourite 80s singers, but one of my favourite musicians of all time.

There are one in ten people who are gifted with such unique and genuine abilities, and for me, he was one of those people. He had a voice like no other, a voice so smooth, so gentle and so harmonious just like he was in that way. And like any good artist, he used such talent to express who he was and he wasn't afraid to do so. In my opinion, George's music was a perfect blend of pure vocals, strong writing and amazing instrumentals; he knew how to blend these things so beautifully and with such care and attention. He was one of those artists whose works managed to stay timeless, not only did his voice stay pure and genuine but his artistry would evolve through each era of his career. He would incorporate innovative sounds with each album while staying true to his own musical style. No matter how you felt about him, whether you liked him or not; you cannot deny his passion. I speak for his fans when I say he created a body of work that stayed appealing for subsequent decades, I would go far to forgive him for songs like 'FREEEK!' and 'Shoot the Dog" as like any person we all make mistakes. Otherwise, this is a musician whose work deserved such acclaim, heck I believe more people need to acknowledge his genius. He was an artist who genuinely stood out for being so unique, to be blessed with such a unique voice, stage presence and resume is something to be truly admired. But another reason why I love his work so much is because I heard it during happy times in my life and I continue to associate such wonderful music with these memories.

His music was something I lived for as it was one of the things that always made me feel better, I've even did a work of art based on his 'December Song (I Dreamed of Christmas) in 2011 as my way of showing my appreciation for it.
Even through moments of adversity, George managed to stay strong. He took the time to continue his career, he was never one to give up on what he was passionate about or the people he loved. And even if he's only made a few songs here and there for the past 10 years, many of his fans (included myself) were still devoted to him as he was to them.

And it breaks my heart that he is no longer on this earth. Ten years ago I had the pleasure to see George in concert, to be so close to someone I admire was an amazing experience for me and it was a day I never want to and never will forget. But sadly I will get a chance like that ever. Not since 2009 has the music industry lost such talent from our culture, never have we been so unfortunate to lose David Bowie, Prince, Pete Burns, Natalie Cole, Leonard Cohen, Viola Beach and Christina Grimmie. But for me the demise of George is what took the red velvet cake with extra icing and cherries! For lack of a much better term, if Jesus Christ is alive and well, then how come George and David are dead? I feel my world has simply been shattered beyond all belief or that I've lost a beloved friend. I don't think I could get over this day in a very long time. But while a great icon has undeservingly passed on so soon and so sudden, we the fans should not let the pain and despair consume us.

George's music spoke to many generations and his art, his charm his looks, and his personality has enriched our culture as well as our lives. And we should never forget that. George, you had a heart as great as your voice, I will always consider you one of the most talented, interesting and unique figures I've ever known. I can say without any hesitation that I was proud to be part of your fanbase, who knows what my life would be like if I never discovered your amazing voice. I speak for the people who loved you as an artist and a person that no other will compare to what you've achieved. We could at least take in account that you are now with your beloved mother and Anselmo; but you'll always live on in our hearts and our minds. You will always be an inspiration and special kind of human being, but one things for sure your sound will always be immortal.