Photo: Still
Former Wham! star Andrew Ridgeley made a rare public appearance when he paid a heartfelt tribute to his friend and former bandmate, the late George Michael, at the Brit Awards last night. He was joined by Wham!’s former backing singer Pepsi and Shirlie.
“We were two boys who shared a love of life-affirming music and a sense that we understood it," he said. "'Careless Whisper’ was the song that got us signed, showed his extraordinary talent and the song which launched his solo career.”
He continued: “He understood love, loss and grief and in his music, he helped to heal the wounds life left on us.”
Shirlie recalled the early days of Wham! saying: "The three of us hung out together, listening to music and making up dance routines.These innocent moments became the seed from his amazing and enthralling showmanship was conceived.”
An overwhelmed Pepsi said: “We always knew that George was destined to become a star in his own right. George, Andrew and Shirlie changed my life by choosing me to join Wham!. These three amazing friends took me into their fold and there was so much laughter, fun and kindness. They were truly wonderful times and I will always cherish them. George wrote from the heart and from his own experience and his fans have shared how his music changed their lives.”
Unable to control her tears, Shirlie spoke of George’s charitable nature:”The side of George that was unknown was the help he gave to charities. He gave so many people the chance to change their lives and anyone who asked for help, invariably got it.
“George was like a brother to me and I will always be so proud of his achievements. His wonderful way with words spoke to everyone and his beautiful voice will live on forever as a gift to us all.”
Andrew said: "His is a legacy of unquestionable brilliance which will resonate years to come. I loved him and in turn, we, have been loved."
George Michael’s untimely death at the age of 53 was announced on Christmas Day.
