Entertainment
Wham! and George Michael bassist Deon Estus dies aged 65
Deon Estus has died at the age of 65 (Picture: Getty Images)
Deon Estus, bassist for Wham! and George Michael, has died at the age of 65.
The news was confirmed with a post on the late star’s social media pages, with an announcement reading: ‘It is with real sadness I post that Deon Estus passed away This Morning.
‘Deon was mostly known as the third member of Wham! Deon was passionate about music and loved interacting with his loyal fans.’
Estus was best known for playing with the band, and co-wrote the 1989 song Heaven Help Me with Michael, a track which reached number five on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
During his incredible career, he also played with the likes of Elton John, Marvin Gaye, Tina Turner, Annie Lennox and Frank Zappa.
Estus’ cause of death has not been confirmed.
The musician was born in Detroit, before moving to the UK in the 1980s and settling in London.
He turned down the chance to work on Marvin Gaye’s 1982 album Midnight Love as he was so busy recording, and his talents were later recognised by Wham!.
Estus was invited to join the band, going on tour with them and playing alongside Michael on his Faith tour.
He also released his own solo album, Spell, in 1989, with several of the tracks being produced by Michael.
Tributes have poured in for the late musician.
Martin Kemp wrote on Twitter: ‘Farewell my friend @DeonEstus Mr Club Tropicana… His bass playing helped create the sound of the 80s…. A brilliant talent…..RIP Deon.’
More: George Michael
One fan added: ‘Tonight we learn of the sad passing of Deon Estus. A familiar and friendly face from the very early days of WHAM! Our thoughts are with his family and friends. RIP Deon. You Have Been Loved.’
Another said: ‘Just heard the tragic news that Deon Estus has passed away. Over the years, Deon was bassist for Wham! George Michael, Marvin Gaye, Elton John and many more. A great man and bass player. RIP.’
