George Michael sold over 100 million albums, and he was very proud of his work. He spent years making soul music that people really respected. When people started calling Gary Barlow the Next George Michael, it did not make George happy at all. He felt like his life’s work was being stolen by someone who did not earn it.
The singer of Careless Whisper felt a lot of resentment toward the new pop star. George worked hard to be seen as a serious R&B artist and not just a pretty face. He saw Gary as a musical squatter trying to live in a house George had built. It was a battle for the soul of the 1980s legacy.
George Michael – Careless Whisper (Official Video)
One viewer said that George was right to protect his crown because his voice was special. Another fan wrote that you cannot just manufacture a new version of a legend. People saw that George valued grit and authenticity over mere fame.
While George was busy guarding his past, Gary Barlow was trying to build a solo career with songs like Back for Good. George was very mean about these songs and called them bad names. He thought the music sounded like it belonged in a cheap club. This was a big turning point where George decided to never pass the torch.
Gary Barlow – Back For Good ft. JLS
Gary Barlow faced the curse of comparison, which made it hard for people to take him seriously. George used his fame to tell everyone that a boy band background could not touch his high standards. He called the idea of Gary being his successor a total joke. This kept George as the only king of his style while others struggled to keep up.
George Michael will always be remembered for his honest voice and his fight for respect. He never let the music industry whitewash his history or his talent. Follow George Michael on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube to see more of his amazing life.