Reflecting on George Michael: A Conversation with Andrew Ridgeley

Remembering Wham! and the Legacy of George Michael

It may be hard for those who didn’t experience the 1980s firsthand to understand the cultural impact of the pop duo Wham!, but for Gen X-ers, the memories are vivid. The infectious bop “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” and the flamboyant performances of George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley left an indelible mark on the music industry. Now, in a new documentary titled “Wham!“, Ridgeley takes us on a journey through the rise and fall of the iconic band.

A Rise Without a Fall

Unlike many bands that disintegrate due to artistic or personal differences, Wham! had a different trajectory. They experienced a meteoric rise to fame and then chose to bring the band to a close on their own terms. Ridgeley explains, “It was just a rise and they called it a day.” The decision was not rooted in conflict or dissatisfaction but rather in the recognition that George Michael’s songwriting was evolving at a pace that Wham! couldn’t keep up with.

The documentary delves into the duo’s early appearances on the music show “Top of the Pops” and their subsequent global success with albums like “Fantastic” and “Make It Big.” It also highlights their groundbreaking 1985 shows in China, making them the first Western pop group to perform in the country. The film skillfully captures their journey through archival media coverage and concert footage, providing a glimpse into the dynamic energy and cultural impact of Wham! during their short but influential existence.

A Lasting Bond

The documentary also sheds light on the enduring bond between Ridgeley and Michael. While they may no longer have lived in each other’s pockets after Wham!, their connection remained strong. Ridgeley fondly reflects on their friendship, stating that he and Michael were more like brothers than bandmates.

One significant moment in their friendship was when Michael came out to Ridgeley after filming the music video for “Club Tropicana” in 1983, a full 15 years before he publicly acknowledged his sexuality. Ridgeley supported Michael with love and acceptance, emphasizing that Michael’s sexual orientation would not have affected their success as a band.

Ridgeley’s Post-Wham! Life

Following the dissolution of Wham!, Ridgeley embarked on a solo career and even dabbled in professional car racing. However, he ultimately chose to step out of the limelight. Despite being tabloid fodder during his time with Wham!, Ridgeley found fulfillment in the success he had achieved alongside Michael. His close friend Shirlie Kemp attests to this, recognizing that being in Wham! gave Ridgeley everything he desired, both professionally and personally.

In recent years, Ridgeley has embraced his past and worked on various Wham!-related projects. He published a memoir in 2019 titled “Wham! George Michael & Me,” which provides further insight into their lives both on and off the stage. He also made a cameo appearance in the romantic-comedy film “Last Christmas,” inspired by Wham!‘s holiday hit of the same name.

“Echoes From the Edge of Heaven,” a collection of Wham! singles, is set to be released later this month, further solidifying the enduring legacy of the band.

The Impact of Wham! and George Michael

Wham! may have had a short career, but their impact on the music industry cannot be understated. Their fusion of disco, funk, pop, and soul paved the way for future artists and helped define the sound of the 1980s. The catchy melodies and energetic performances resonated with audiences around the world, making Wham! one of the biggest pop groups of the late 20th century.

Furthermore, the friendship and bond between Ridgeley and Michael serve as a testament to the power of genuine connection. Their unwavering support for each other, both personally and professionally, is a reminder that strong relationships can withstand the tests of time.

Advice for Current and Future Artists

Aspiring musicians can learn valuable lessons from the story of Wham! and the career of George Michael. One crucial takeaway is the importance of staying true to one’s artistic vision and evolving creatively. Wham! recognized the limitations of their musical style and chose to bring their journey to a close before it became stale.

Another lesson lies in the significance of genuine connections and friendships within the music industry. Ridgeley and Michael’s bond was a driving force behind their success, and their unwavering support for each other demonstrates the significance of surrounding oneself with trusted allies.

Finally, artists can find inspiration in Ridgeley’s decision to step out of the limelight and embrace a quieter life after Wham! Fame and celebrity are not the sole measures of success. It is essential for artists to define their own path and find fulfillment outside of the spotlight, focusing on personal satisfaction and artistic growth.

In conclusion, the documentary “Wham!” is a poignant reminder of the impact that Wham! and George Michael had on the music industry. Their rise to stardom, the enduring bond between Ridgeley and Michael, and the lessons learned from their experiences serve as valuable insights for both current and future artists.