George Sings Of John And Elvis
It's official. Things are starting to happen in the George Michael camp. Spot met the man for an unofficial chat in London in October. To talk about album and single and John and Elvis and such.
- So, what's going on with the album, George? I ask, after shaking his hand and taking care of the usual 'hi, how are you' phrases. You can't get around that kind of thing here in England.
- Oh, the album, he sighs. - I was supposed to have it out by Christmas, but I've been delayed, again. It will give me a bit of more time to make it even better. Though I don't release the album until February, I will hopefully have a song out on the radio by December and a single in January, so it's something.
I want to know more. Like, what's it called? The song, I mean.
- It's, uh, actually called... he grins widely and looks at me in amusement. He takes a deep breath and finally says - It's called "John and Elvis are dead."
I look at him in disbelief. He holds his breath, awaiting a reaction. I can't figure out if he's playing with me or not. I then think to myself, "John. John Lennon. Lennon piano", remember the multimillion pound purchase he made some years back and draw a quick conclusion. If he can play, I can play along, I figured.
- So you used the Lennon piano for this track, then?
- Yes! Yes, I did, actually! he smiles, seemingly surprised that I saw the, to me, obvious connection. Still not sure whether he's taking the piss or not, he goes on enthusiastically: - I just used it for the intro to give it the right feeeeeel, he almost whispers. Confusion is complete.
There have been rumours about duets with the likes of Kylie Minogue, but George denies it.
- Nah, it's just going to be me this time. So there are no duets and no covers, just originals. I believe I owe it to those who have been eagerly waiting years (read: 8!) for me to get the thing out. It's about time now, I think.
He smiles at me as he realises I've discovered the song that's playing in his car, with some unmistaken vocals and the smooth sound of a much longed for George Michael ballad.
- Don't think I can't see ya, he laughs. – It’s called “Through” this one. You're just going to have to wait for February to hear the rest, he winks, turns the track off and goes back inside the studio to complete his masterpiece.