Fans of George Michael are in for an unforgettable experience as THE GEORGE MICHAEL SINGERS, featuring three of his long-time backing vocalists, bring a spectacular celebration of the late singer’s music to the stage. Following a triumphant sold-out performance in December 2024, this heartfelt tribute promises to take audiences on an intimate journey through the life and artistry of the beloved music icon.
Three of George Michael’s longtime backing vocalists—Shirley Lewis, Jo Garland, and Jay Henry—are joining forces with his original band members for a series of live shows. Audiences can expect powerful renditions of George’s greatest hits, spanning his career from Wham! through to Symphonica. The show will feature classics such as “Careless Whisper,” “Father Figure,” “Fastlove,” and “Freedom,” performed by the voices that helped shape these iconic recordings. What makes this performance truly special is the intimate, behind-the-scenes stories shared by the singers who worked alongside George throughout his career, offering a deeper, more personal connection to his music and legacy.
Shirley Lewis, whose voice can be heard on “Freedom” and “Father Figure,” has worked with an array of musical greats over the years, including Sir Elton John and Stevie Wonder. Shirley, coming from a musical family that includes her groundbreaking sister Linda—who was the first Black British female singer-songwriter to enter the UK charts—has built a remarkable career. However, it is her 30-year collaboration with George that stands as the defining highlight of her career.
Shirley said ahead of The George Michael Singers UK tour……
“We’re excited to be able to perform George’s beautiful songs again, and although our hearts will forever miss him, working together again definitely keeps George with us.”
Joining Shirley is Jo Garland, whose vocals were adored by the Wham! frontman. George was so impressed by Jo that he had her lay her vocals on several of his albums, including Older, Ladies and Gentlemen, and Patience. Jo, who also appeared in the “Fastlove” music video, says….
“Whilst Shirley and I were touring last year, we started reminiscing about George, and realised very quickly just how many incredible memories we had. From that, a show was born.”
We spoke to Shirley and Jo about the upcoming tour dates and their visit to South Wales…….
Acclaimed international session vocalist and The Voice UK vocal coach Jay Henry performed “Freedom ’90” alongside George at the Closing Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games. But performing at the Olympic Stadium (now known as the London Stadium) in Stratford was just one of many collaborations with George. Jay worked closely with him in the recording studio and on numerous world tours.
Visualising George in the audience when he performs on stage, Jay said, “I’m just going to imagine George sitting in the audience looking up at us proudly with a smile and saying, ‘Thanks, you guys. This is just what I would have wanted.’”
As well as the trio, some of George’s original band members and his musical director Steve Sidwell, along with guest vocalists, will come together for this unique show. This concert follows the success of their sold-out performance at London’s Shepherd’s Bush Empire in December 2024.
Renditions of some of George’s biggest hits, from Wham! to Faith to Symphonica, will be performed, as well as Shirley, Jo, and Jay sharing untold stories about working with their late dear friend.
The George Michael Estate said….
“The George Michael Estate would like to wish The George Michael Singers every success for their upcoming show. Turn up the volume, keep the music alive, and best of luck.”
THE GEORGE MICHAEL SINGERS get to the New Theatre in Cardiff on Tuesday 8th April. For more details and tickets go HERE.
