GEORGE MICHAEL

AWESOME CONCERT.

I have always been a fan of George Michael's voice, music, and message in some of his songs. I had actually never seen him live in concert so I was really excited to be there for his return after so many years away from the spotlight.

During the last 17 years away from US stages, he was known to Americans more for his troubles with the law, than his recent hits. I was a little worried that this would still be held against him for this tour. I was happy to see that it was not the case. The first show was at the San Diego Sports Arena. The stadium was packed and as the show went along, people were singing all the hits (except for the latest songs that never made it here).

His voice was flawless and strong. There are a couple of my favorites songs ("Praying for time", "I want your sex") that he did not do, but I know he cannot please everybody. For "One More Try," he upped the gospel vibe, which I loved, singing with the background vocalists in a circle around him. He threw in a couple covers too, offering a striking rendition of Nina Simone's "Feeling Good" as well as a sultry cover of The Police's "Roxanne". As much as I like those songs and enjoyed them, I would have loved more of "George's own material".

Before performing "Amazing" he told us that he dedicated the song to his partner, Kenny, showing his complete openness about his sexuality. Some of the lyrics of "An easier affair" show that as well.

The stage was simple and amazing at the same time. The multilevel structures that housed the musicians were positioned between three giant video screens that provided stunning images to enhance the performance. At the beginning of the show, it looked like it was raining blue and red sparkles and it gave me goose bumps because it looked like it was actually "raining". The middle screen curved down and was part of the stage on which George sang and danced. For appearing to be bare, the stage was actually incredible, being literally lit up.

I enjoyed every second of the show and hope that it does well all over the country.