George Michael died on Christmas Day here are the most iconic moments of the well-loved singer

THE WORLD was shocked last night when it was announced that George Michael had passed away aged 53.

Claiming another victim, 2016 has deprived music fans of yet another icon.

George Michael has left behind a legacy of unforgettable music hits that have inspired a generation of musicians and became a pillar of the LGBT community.

Tributes have been pouring in from celebrities across the globe and it is clear that the feeling of shock and sadness has hit those who knew him hard.

As the world waves goodbye to the much-loved singer songwriter we count down some of his most celebrated moments...

That Aretha Franklin duet – I knew you were waiting (for me)

George Micheal dueted with some of the biggest names in the buisness including Elton John and Whitney Houston but this classic track with soul singer Aretha Franklin is definitely one of the most memorable.

The Grammy-award-winning song was released in 1987 and went straight to number one.

The first ever carpool karaoke with James Cordon

Back before carpool karaoke hit the big time Stateside, James Cordon came up with the concept for a sketch on 2011's Comic Relief.

The British comedian needed a famous co-star in order to bring the idea to life so enlisted the help of the WHAM vocalist in this hilarious clip.

WHAM classic Wake me up before you go go

Disco classic Wake Me Up Before You Go Go is one of the most popular songs in Wham's back catalogue.

The catchy beat was the breakthrough hit for George and his bandmate Andrew Ridgeley, and the pair scored their first American and UK number ones with the songs release.

George's Careless whisper

Carless Whisper was so successful, it reached number one in 23 different countries, and solo more than six million copies worldwide.

The song cemented George's reputation as one of the all time great song writers with lyrics like: "I'm never going to dance again, guilty feet have got no rhythm."

Festive classic Last Christmas

George's festive classic Last Christmas is still on heavy rotation every Christmas and is estimated to have made him £300,000 in royalties every year.

Many fans have seen the song becoming a poignant tribute as his death was announced on Christmas Day, and have shared the song online in his memory.

His charity work and Live Aid

Aside from his musical achievements George was a passionate campaigner and supported a number of charities.

He performed at Live Aid in 1985 with Elton John and in 1992 he sung with Queen at The Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert which raised money for AIDS research.

The iconic Faith video

The biggest hit of all his singles was 1987's No. 1 smash Faith.

The single from his first solo album- of the same name - spent four weeks at number one, it was one of four singles from the album that hit the top spot.

Don’t let the sun go down on me

Aside from a great friendship, George Michael and Elton John also collaborated on stage to create the classic ballad Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me.

Writing on Instagram the music legend's friend Elton John wrote: "I have lost a beloved friend - the kindest, most generous soul and a brilliant artist.

"My heart goes out to his family and all of his fans."