Deon Estus, the longtime bass player for Wham! and George Michael, has died aged 65, it has been confirmed.
Estus passed away yesterday (October 11), and news was confirmed on the musician’s official Twitter page. No cause of death has yet been revealed.
“It is with real sadness I post that Deon Estus passed away this morning,” the post read. “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
Estus’ partner Brenda Kaye Pearce paid tribute to the bassist on Facebook (via Billboard), writing: “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.”
Most famous for playing with Wham! and George Michael, Estus also co-wrote the hit 1989 song ‘Heaven Help Me’ with Michael, which went on to be a Top Five hit in the United States. It appeared on his sole studio album, ‘Spell’.
Elsewhere in his career, Estus played bass for a number of world famous stars including Elton John, Marvin Gaye, Tina Turner, Annie Lennox and Frank Zappa.
Since news of his death was shared, tributes have come pouring in on social media. Wham! backing singer and Pepsi & Shirlie member Shirlie Kemp wrote: “Shocked to hear the passing of such a lovely man. Spent so many years with Deon touring with Wham. God Bless..RIP.”
Shocked to hear the passing of such a lovely man. Spent so many years with Deon touring with Wham. God Bless..RIP @DeonEstus
