Brits tributes for Bowie and Michael
ABSENT friends were remembered by the British music industry last night with two posthumous Brit Awards for David Bowie and tributes for George Michael.
Bowie, who died of cancer in January last year at the age of 69, won best male solo artist and best album for his last recording, the critically acclaimed Blackstar.
Along with Adele, awarded the global success gong, Bowie continues to dominate the industry after securing four Grammys last week.
In a tribute for the Wham! star Michael who died suddenly aged 53 on Christmas Day, his former bandmate Andrew Ridgeley, 54, told how the industry lost “the greatest singer-songwriter of his generation”.
He said: “A supernova in a firmament of shining stars had been extinguished and it felt like the sky had fallen in.”
Last night’s awards saw Beyonce named as best international female and Drake best international male.
It was a particularly starry night on the red carpet but girl band Little Mix shone the brightest of all.
They not only kicked the show off with a rendition of their song Shout Out To My Ex which won Best British Single, but earlier wowed the crowds with mismatched outfits.
Jesy Nelson opted for full-length leather, Leigh-Anne Pinnock an unusual denim patchwork frock, Perrie Edwards a PVC bodice and feathered skirt and Jade Thirlwall a barely-there white slip.
Pop stars Katy Perry, Ellie Goulding and Pixie Lott were not to be outdone, all opting for daring, fashion-forward styles. Our Girl actress Michelle Keegan, though shunned a dress, instead making her mark with a blue strapless jumpsuit.
Emeli Sande took the prestigious best British female solo artist, while Rag’n’Bone Man secured the best breakthrough act.