George Michael: Singer, songwriter, record producer. From the international popularity of duo international sensation Wham. to solo artist megastar. George Michael's solo career got off to the strongest start imaginable with the release of a duet with Aretha Franklin in 1987. Known for his personal affairs, his private life became a target for the media. These personal troubles making headlines throughout the '90s and the 'Noughties' became a struggle to fight his own reputation.