Elton John, Mariah Carey, Kate Moss and Bob Geldof ‘would love to organise memorial concert’ for George Michael
SOME of the biggest names in the music industry could be set to remember their beloved friend George Michael in a tribute to end all tributes.
Big names who have previously worked alongside the iconic star are said to be considering an ultimate send-off for George, 53, who died of heart failure on Christmas Day - with claims it could be in the shape of a "memorial concert".
Everyone from Elton John and Bob Geldof, to Wham! star Andrew Ridgeley, soul queen Aretha Franklin and pals Mariah Carey, Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell, and Cindy Crawford - the latter two models who starred in his Freedom 90 video - are just a few of the names said to be in the early stages of considering a tribute.
A source said: "It's early stages yet but George's pals are determined to deliver a send-off to remember for him.
"It's likely to be in the form of a memorial concert and to raise money for the causes close to George's heart.
"George was a dear friend to so many people, and there is no way that they will let him go without a send-off fit for a music legend.
"He made friends across the worlds of music, acting, modelling, charitable work and the impact he had fighting for LGBT rights.
"Everyone is heartbroken, he had an impact on so many people's lives."
George's close friend Elton John led the tributes to him, as news of his death spread across the world.
Elton shared an emotional Instagram post, writing: "I am in deep shock.
"I have lost a beloved friend - the kindest, most generous soul and a brilliant artist. My heart goes out to his family and all his friends."
The pair previously performed Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me together, and remained good friends through the years.
Meanwhile, Mariah remembered George on social media with a snap of the star, writing: "Rest In Peace, George."
She added a lengthy message on her website, writing: "George was only 53 at the time of his passing. He left us way too soon.
"He was a genius that gave us classics like ‘Faith' as well as boundary pushing singles ‘I Want Your Sex' and ‘Father Figure.' He also gave us the FIRST modern Christmas classic with ‘Last Christmas.'"
Related stories
Meanwhile, George's friend Bob Geldof told ITV News: "George was great, clever and brilliantly talented. We had a lot of fun together."
George's publicist confirmed he had died on Christmas Day in a heartbreaking statement, saying: "It is with great sadness that we can confirm our beloved son, brother and friend George passed away peacefully at home over the Christmas period.
"The family would ask that their privacy be respected at this difficult and emotional time.
"There will be no further comment at this stage."
Michael's longtime manager Michael Lippman told Billboard that the cause of death was believed to be heart failure.