A Look Back on the Music and Men of Gay ’80s Icon George Michael

Last month on a memorable episode of every gay man’s favorite talk show, Watch What Happens Live, there was yet another cutie tending bar for Andy Cohen. James Gavin is the author of some wonderful biographies of musical legends like Lena Horne and Peggy Lee. Now he has released his latest best seller, a biography of a favorite of every gay man: George Michael.

George represented everything we love about '80s music. Hot, fun, popular, energetic, and hot (again).  His music remains a favorite for gay audiences and all '80s music fans. Let’s have a look back at the man and his music:

It doesn’t get much '80s gayer than the music of WHAM! Even in gay clubs today, you will often hear their songs, or at least techno remixes of them. The way George moves his body is pure sexuality.

One of his biggest songs "Freedom" is an examination of his struggles with identity and stardom. Looking back knowing what he was going through at the time, the song takes on new meaning.

It wouldn't be Christmas without George Michael either. His hit "Last Christmas" has become a staple of the season.

Finally, nothing is more peak George Michael than him in those tight blue jeans and leather jacket moving his hips in "Faith".

George may not have come out of the closet until much later in his career, but there were several early indicators. I mean, he did perform at the memorial tribute to Freddie Mercury alongside Liza Minnelli.

We did say that George was hot right:

Some of George's partners were hot too!

His most lasting relationship was to Brazilian designer Anselmo Fallepa, who died of AIDS in 1993, devastating George and finally forcing him out of the closet.

At the time of his death, George was involved with art dealer Kenny Goss.

George passed in 2016 of heart and liver disease at only 53. Fortunately he leaves behind an unsurpassed body of work.

James Gavin’s book is available now wherever books are sold:

Now turn the lights down, and let's sway to perhaps his most enduring hit, "Careless Whisper".