Andrew Ridgeley paid an emotional tribute to former Wham! bandmate George Michael at yesterday’s BRIT Awards ceremony.
Flanked by the band’s backing singers Pepsi and Shirlie, the singer said: “George’s contribution to the great archive of contemporary music rests alongside the immortals. His is a legacy of unquestionable brilliance and one which will continue to shine and resonate for generations to come.”
“George has left for us in his songs, in the transcendental beauty of his voice, and in the poetic expression of his soul, the very best of himself.”
Shirlie fought back tears as she in turn paid tribute: “Anyone who asked for George’s help eventually got it… George was like a brother to me and I’ll always be so proud of his incredible achievements.”
The eulogies for the late star were followed by a raw rendition of Michael’s 1986 Number One A Different Corner, sung by Coldplay‘s Chris Martin alongside Michael himself via a giant video screen.
