Sad to read about the passing of Deon Estus, the longtime Wham! and George Michael bassist who was also a one-hit wonder as a solo artist with 1989's “Heaven Help Me.” He was just 65 and no cause of death has been made public.
Estus had a long and acclaimed career, having also played with with Marvin Gaye, Elton John, Tina Turner, Frank Zappa, George Clinton, Annie Lennox and Aaron Neville, among others.
Consequence of Sound reports that the Detroit-born Estus joined Wham! in the 1980s, and was sometimes referred to as the group's third member. He later accompanied Michael on his 1988-1989 “The Faith Tour,” and in 1989 he released the solo album called "Spell." This included three singles: the title track; the modest dance hit “Me or the Rumors” and “Heaven Help Me,” which was co-written and featured vocals from Michael, and peaked at No. 5 on the Billboard charts.
His death was confirmed by his partner, Brenda Kaye Pierce,, who wrote on Facebook.
“My dearest, closest partner and significant other of 4 years transitioned and all I can remember is our last conversation the day before,” she wrote. “My heart will need time to heal. R.I.P. Deon. Love you forever.”
RIP.
