The late George Michael, remembered as one of the most iconic pop stars of his generation, never shied away from expressing his admiration for The Beatles. Known for his authenticity, soul-stirring ballads like “Careless Whisper”, and electrifying performances as both a solo artist and member of Wham!, Michael carried a profound respect for the band that reshaped modern music.
Buying John Lennon’s “Imagine” Piano
In one of the most symbolic gestures of his career, George Michael purchased John Lennon’s legendary Steinway Model Z piano — the very instrument on which Lennon composed the timeless anthem “Imagine” in 1971. The piano, previously displayed at the Beatles Story Museum in Liverpool, went up for auction at London’s Hard Rock Café. Competing against big names like the Gallagher brothers of Oasis and Robbie Williams, Michael emerged as the highest bidder, paying a staggering $2.1 million.
Michael explained his decision in an interview with People:
“It is so symbolic of the best elements of the ’60s and ’70s youth culture, great music and a desire to change things for the better. As a songwriter, it’s such an amazing thing to own, and as far as paying the $2.1 million, it’s worth every penny.”
For Michael, owning Lennon’s piano was more than collecting a piece of rock history — it was about preserving a symbol of peace, artistry, and cultural revolution.
Covering The Beatles’ Music
Michael’s admiration extended beyond collecting memorabilia. He frequently performed Beatles classics, including “Get Back” and “The Long and Winding Road.” These covers revealed his ability to blend his unique voice with timeless songs, highlighting how deeply the Fab Four influenced his artistry.
Though Michael admitted he was too young to have grown up during Beatlemania — The Beatles broke up in 1970 when he was just seven years old — their music still shaped his artistic journey.
George Michael on Why The Beatles Mattered
When asked directly about The Beatles’ place in music history, Michael’s response was both candid and passionate:
“They remain the strongest force in popular music simply because they were the first and—more important—the best.”
He explained that although his parents only owned one Beatles record (Let It Be), he discovered their catalog later in life and immediately recognized their lasting significance.
When asked what made John Lennon’s music special, Michael replied:
“Pure quality. Simplicity and heart. That is really all that great pop music needs. Those three elements in combination are not too easy to find these days, which is why generation after generation come back to The Beatles and look to them for inspiration.”
A Shared Legacy of Authenticity
George Michael’s admiration for The Beatles is a reminder of how their legacy transcends generations and genres. Just as Lennon, McCartney, Harrison, and Starr reshaped music in the 1960s, Michael carried the same spirit of authenticity and innovation into the 1980s and beyond.
By purchasing Lennon’s piano and continuing to champion their work, Michael not only honored The Beatles’ influence on him personally but also underscored their enduring impact on global music culture.
Even decades after their breakup, The Beatles remained — in George Michael’s words — “the strongest force in popular music.”
