He's back. That is what George Michael declares at the start of his new single "White Light" and who can argue with him when the results are this good? Michael has been through a lot these last few years, much of it self-inflicted as he admits, culminating in a bout with pneumonia last year that left him in a coma and near death according to the singer.
So with a literal second chance at life, he is rejuvenated and celebratory on his first new music since the health scare, the single "White Light". Musically, the song calls to mind "Precious Box" from his last studio album, 2004's "Patience", but the electronic dance music can't hide the deeply personal and affecting lyrics. Michael mentions stories of other celebrities, without naming names, who have succumbed to a life of excess, drug and drink and questions why he was spared, but does so in a message of genuine gratitude. He considers this song a thank you letter to his fans, loved ones and everyone who pulled for him to make it through and that uplifting chorus of 'I'm Alive' being repeated in the background sends shivers down the spine.
The video is equally impressive and most importantly, the man looks healthy and happy again. Quick cuts of a hospital room, Michael stuck waiting between Heaven and Hell as his life hangs in the balance, it's pretty obvious what the message of the video is but the scene of George doing that 'George Michael' dance again brings a huge smile to my face. The man is a pop music legend, the music world is a better place when he is active in it. Here is to hoping this is indeed a new lease on life for George Michael and he makes the most of this second chance. 'I've got so much more that I want to do with the music' he sings. We hope so George, welcome back.
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