Andrew Ridgeley has paid tribute to his friend and former Wham! bandmate George Michael after the iconic musician sadly passed away on Christmas Day aged 53.
Andrew tweeted a link to the tragic news on Twitter, and used his friend's nickname 'Yog' which means 'Yours Only George' to pay his respects. He wrote: "Heartbroken at the loss of my beloved friend Yog. Me, his loved ones, his friends, the world of music, the world at large. 4ever loved. A xx" He then shared one of George's quotes which read: "I still believe that music is one of the greatest gifts that God gave to man," commenting: "God didn't give it, you did my old friend. Cleft with grief." The musical duo found success together after forming Wham! back in 1981 with hits including Last Christmas, Club Tropicana and Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go before splitting in 1986, with George calling the breakup "the most amicable split in pop history" at the time.
© Photo: Getty ImagesGeorge and Andrew formed Wham! in 1981
Andrew also retweeted a tribute post from former Bananarama band member Sara Dallin, who wrote: "Heartbroken at the loss of one of my oldest friends. I will never forget the fun times we had together. Rest in Peace George, I'll miss you." Other friends and colleagues of the late singer have also paid tribute to him following his tragic death, with long-time friend Elton John leading the tributes.
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Sharing a photo of himself with George on Instagram, the musician wrote: "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, friends and all of his fans."
