Sombr, RAYE, Adam Lambert and Teddy Swims joined forces for a star-studded tribute to George Michael at last night’s MTV VMAs – check out footage below.
The performance took place at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles yesterday (September 27), marking 10 years since the death of the former Wham! star.
Orville Peck introduced the tribute, describing Michael as a “pop god” who became an international superstar aged 19 and went on to create “timeless anthems and powerful statements against the establishment”.
Sombr kicked off the medley with two songs from Michael’s landmark 1987 debut solo album ‘Faith’, beginning with its title track before moving into ‘Father Figure’.
RAYE then took the stage for ‘I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me)’, the 1987 duet Michael originally recorded with Aretha Franklin. The performance incorporated Michael’s original vocals alongside RAYE’s live singing.
Watch footage below:
Raye performing at the 2026 #VMAs as part of a tribute to George Michael. pic.twitter.com/w9zybRrd49
— RAYE Updates (@RayeUpdate) September 28, 2026
Teddy Swims followed with one of Michael’s most recognisable songs, ‘Careless Whisper’, accompanied by its signature saxophone line.
Lambert then emerged as a surprise final guest to perform ‘Freedom! ’90’, with MNEK, MEEK and Saint Harison later joining him for the celebratory finale.
Check it out here:
