Wham! and George Michael bassist Deon Estus has died.
The news was confirmed on the musician’s official Twitter page, with a post sharing: “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.”
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.#onlyloveisreal @billboard @RollingStone @BBCBreaking pic.twitter.com/uGje66JDTa
— Deon Estus (@DeonEstus) October 11, 2021
A cause of death has yet to be revealed.
In a post on Facebook, Estus’ partner Brenda Kaye Pearce shared her own tribute, penning: “My dearest, closest partner and significant other of 4 years transitioned and all I can remember is our last conversation the day before.
“My heart will need time to heal. R.I.P. Deon. Love you forever.”
Shocked to hear the passing of such a lovely man. Spent so many years with Deon touring with Wham. God Bless..RIP @DeonEstus 💔 pic.twitter.com/3QRwWcxEv7
— Shirlie Kemp (@Shirliekemp) October 12, 2021
In addition to his work with Wham! and George, with whom he wrote 1989 tune Heaven Help Me, he also played bass for stars including Elton John, Tina Turner, Annie Lennox and more.
Tributes flooded in following the news of Estus’ passing, with Wham! backing singer Shirlie Kemp writing: “Shocked to hear the passing of such a lovely man. Spent so many years with Deon touring with Wham. God Bless… RIP.”
Farewell my friend @DeonEstus Mr Club Tropicana…
— Martin Kemp (@realmartinkemp) October 12, 2021
His bass playing helped create the sound of the 80s….
A brilliant talent…..RIP Deon pic.twitter.com/nozBgQ0v8H
Spandau Ballet’s Martin Kemp added: Farewell my friend @DeonEstus Mr Club Tropicana…
“His bass playing helped create the sound of the 80s… A brilliant talent… RIP Deon.”
