George Michael’s estate has announced the re-release of the iconic song ‘Careless Whisper’ to commemorate its 40th anniversary. Upon its release in 1984, the hit song topped the charts in 25 countries and has sold over 1.5 million copies in the United Kingdom alone. The song is now certified seven times Platinum in the United States. A new EP from George Michael Entertainment and Sony Music will celebrate four decades of ‘Careless Whisper’ and will feature newly mastered versions of the original single, alongside an extended mix and instrumental. The EP will be available in both digital and physical formats and includes a previously unreleased live recording of the song performed at New York City’s Madison Square Garden in 2008, marking his first performance in the city after a 17-year hiatus. ‘Careless Whisper EP’ will be released on the 18th of October and fans can pre-order it via the provided link.
“As we celebrate 40 years of ‘Careless Whisper’, we are proud to share something truly special with George’s millions of fans around the world”, a representative for George Michael Entertainment said. He also expressed his gratitude to fans for their unwavering support and love. The track was written by Michael and his Wham! bandmate Andrew Ridgeley when they were 17 years old.
Michael passed away on Christmas Day in 2016, aged 53. The announcement of the re-release comes shortly after his Royal Mint tribute. The Royal Mint issued a new coin in tribute to the late singer as part of their Music Legends series, commemorating iconic British performers. Last year, Michael was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, where Miguel, Adam Levine, and Carrie Underwood paid tribute to him by performing covers of his biggest hits — including ‘Careless Whisper’ which was covered by Miguel.
In other news, one of the singer’s jackets was listed among more than 200 pieces of music memorabilia going to auction, alongside a leather jacket worn by Michael Jackson and a hairpiece that belonged to Amy Winehouse. The La Rocka! jacket worn by the late singer in the music video ‘I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me)’, alongside Aretha Franklin, sold for £93,750 including the buyer’s premium. NME also spoke to Andrew Ridgeley in June ahead of the Netflix Wham! documentary, where he discussed the impact of Michael’s death and the documentary’s context. NME reviewed the documentary, giving it a four-star rating, calling it “a ray of sunshine through dark clouds
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