George Michael rose to worldwide superstardom as part of the cheery dance pop duo Wham! in the 1980s, before going solo after three hit albums. Michael enjoyed even more success on his own, updating older dance styles (soul, '70s disco, etc.) and even dipping into social commentary (1990's LISTEN WITHOUT PREJUDICE). After Freddie Mercury's death, Michael performed a high-profile tribute concert with Queen, taking Mercury's role.