British pop duo formed in Bushey, Hertfordshire in 1981 (officially Wham!). Duo of George Michael (vocals, 1963-2016) and Andrew Ridgeley (guitar/vocals, b. 1963). Distinguished by their bright, dance-oriented pop sound and Michael's powerful vocals.
Released three studio albums during their five-year run: Fantastic (1983), Make It Big (1984, featuring "Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go," "Careless Whisper," and "Everything She Wants," all #1 hits), and Music from the Edge of Heaven (1986). Wham! disbanded in 1986; George Michael pursued a solo career until his Christmas Day 2016 death from heart failure.
