‘Curse of 2016’ claims George Michael
BRITAIN: Rock superstar Elton John has led the tributes to his ‘‘beloved friend’’ George Michael, who died yesterday, aged 53.
The singer said he was ‘‘in deep shock’’ at Michael’s death.
The pair famously collaborated on a rendition of Elton’s classic Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me, released in 1992, nearly two decades after the original.
Writing on Instagram, Elton said: ‘‘I have lost a beloved friend the kindest, most generous soul and a brilliant artist. My heart goes out to his family and all of his fans.’’
Pop stars from the former Wham! front man’s heyday were joined by current chart-toppers in declaring their sadness.
Martin Fry, lead singer and songwriter with Look Of Love band ABC, said on Twitter: ‘‘Absolutely devastated to hear of the loss of @Georgemichael Truly brilliant talent #sad #sad #sad.’’
Contemporaries Duran Duran referenced the so-called ‘‘curse of 2016’’ - which has seen the deaths of rock and pop behemoths David Bowie, Prince and Rick Parfitt, posted: ‘‘2016 - loss of another talented soul. All our love and sympathy to @Georgemichael’s family.’’
And 1980s pop star Howard Jones, known for the song I’d Like To Get To Know You Well, said: ‘‘Can’t believe George Michael has passed . . . one of the greatest singers and writers the UK ever produced. I’m really saddened . . . a lovely man.’’
Alison Moyet, who performed at Live Aid in 1985 on the same bill as Michael, said: ‘‘I met George Michael a few times & he was ever a gentle, unassuming soul. A rare presence in a world full of self. Honest, genuine talent.’’
Producer and musician Mark Ronson said: ‘‘I bought (& worshipped) Listen Without Prejudice on my 15th birthday. This song readied me for Stevie Wonder . . . Other than a global pop phenom, George Michael was one of the true British soul greats. A lot of us owe him an unpayable debt. bye George xx’’.
Matt Lucas, who worked with the singer during a sketch for BBC comedy Little Britain, said: ‘‘Well 2016, you had to just take one more, didn’t you?’’ - PA