George Michael ‘The Faith Tour’ Live Concert Film and Album Announced

Experience the excitement of George Michael’s iconic Faith Tour with a newly restored live concert film and an 18-track album of unreleased performances.

A Glimpse Back to the Faith Tour Magic

If you’ve ever wished to relive the electrifying atmosphere of George Michael’s first solo concert tour, your moment has arrived. The Faith Tour concert film is making a grand return to cinemas later this year, offering fans a chance to experience the energy and charisma of Michael at his peak.

Captured during the European leg of the Faith Tour in 1988 at Paris’s Palais Omnisports de Paris-Bercy, this film is a gem of music history. Directed by George’s longtime collaborators Andy Morahan and David Austin, the footage was thought lost for years but has now been painstakingly restored and remastered. This isn’t just a concert replay—it’s a time capsule of an era when George Michael was redefining pop music with his smooth vocals and sharp style.

George Michael on stage during the Faith Tour, exuding the star power that made the era unforgettable.

Inside the Film: More Than Just a Concert

The concert film is a feast for the senses, shot over two nights using 14 cameras on classic 35mm film, ensuring every angle and every emotion is captured in vivid detail. But the experience goes beyond just the live performance.

Opening the feature is a short film by Mary McCartney titled Finding Faith, which contextualizes the tour’s cultural weight and its lasting imprint on music history. The film also includes George Michael’s own voice via a previously unheard interview, weaving his thoughts and reflections into the narrative. Fans will delight in unseen images by acclaimed American photographer Herb Ritts, along with behind-the-scenes glimpses into the making of the iconic Faith music video.

Photo credit: Michael Putland — George Michael captivating the crowd with his signature style and voice.

Photo credit: George Michael Entertainment — A star at the peak of his solo career.

Photo credit: Michael Putland — The massive crowd that gathered to witness a pop icon in full command.

The Faith Tour Album: A Treasure Trove of Unheard Live Recordings

Alongside the film, a new live album titled The Faith Tour is set to arrive, spotlighting 18 previously unreleased recordings from George Michael’s world tour era. Spanning both his time with Wham! and his blossoming solo career, these tracks offer a fresh lens on the artist’s evolution and stage presence. While a release date hasn’t been disclosed, anticipation is building fast.

Touring Triumph: The Launch of a Solo Career

The Faith Tour marked George Michael’s bold step into solo superstardom, supporting his debut solo album Faith. Running from February to October 1988, the tour was a nine-month whirlwind choreographed by none other than Paula Abdul, whose energetic and innovative approach added an extra layer of excitement to each performance.

The album Faith soared to amazing heights, selling over 25 million copies worldwide. It topped the charts in both the UK and the US, maintaining a spot in the Billboard 200 top 10 for an astounding 51 non-consecutive weeks. Such success earned it a Diamond certification from the Recording Industry Association of America in 1996, a testament to its enduring popularity. Not to mention, it snagged Album of the Year at the Grammy Awards, cementing George Michael’s status as a solo superstar.

Remembering a Legend

George Michael passed away on December 25, 2016, at the age of 53 due to heart and liver disease. His death shook the music world, leading to an outpouring of tributes from fans and fellow musicians alike. Over the years, many artists have honored his legacy by covering his songs, keeping his spirit alive for new generations.

New Tributes Keep the Faith Alive

Just recently, in November, spoken word artist Kae Tempest released a powerful cover of George’s 1990 hit single “Freedom! ’90,” renamed “Freedom! 25,” breathing fresh life into the classic anthem.

October saw pop singer Poppy share her take on Wham!’s timeless holiday favorite “Last Christmas,” adding her fierce energy to the beloved classic.

The reach of George Michael’s influence even touches contemporary superstars. Taylor Swift interpolated elements of his 1987 ballad “Father Figure” for her song of the same name on her album *The Life Of A Showgirl*. The late singer’s estate warmly acknowledged the collaboration, expressing delight that Taylor and her team sought permission and thoughtfully integrated George Michael’s work into a brand-new track.

“We were delighted when Taylor Swift and her team approached us earlier this year about incorporating an interpolation of George Michael‘s classic song ‘Father Figure’ into a brand new song of the same title to be featured on her forthcoming album.”

— George Michael Estate

Why the Faith Tour Still Matters

The Faith Tour was more than just a series of concerts; it was a cultural moment that illuminated George Michael’s artistry, resilience, and unique ability to connect with audiences worldwide. The announcement of the restored film and accompanying album not only revives that energy but also introduces it to younger generations.

For longtime fans like me, this release is a priceless gift—a chance to relive those unforgettable nights and deepen our appreciation for a true pop icon. And for newcomers, it’s the perfect invitation to experience the magic that made George Michael a legend.

FAQ

• What is the new George Michael release about?
  It’s a restored live concert film from the 1988 Faith Tour in Paris, accompanied by an 18-track album with previously unreleased live recordings.
• Who directed the Faith Tour film?
  The film was directed by Andy Morahan and David Austin, longtime collaborators of George Michael.
• What makes the Faith album so significant?
  Faith sold over 25 million copies globally, won Album of the Year at the Grammys, and achieved Diamond certification in the US.
• When did George Michael pass away?
  He passed on December 25, 2016, from heart and liver disease.
• Have any artists recently paid tribute to George Michael?
  Yes, Kae Tempest, Poppy, and Taylor Swift have all honored him through covers or samples of his iconic tracks.

If you’re inspired by the legacy of George Michael and want to bring a piece of that brilliance into your space, consider browsing our collection of iconic album cover posters. Celebrate the era of pop magic with stunning visuals that echo the spirit of Faith.

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