English singer/songwriter and record producer Andrew John Ridgeley was born 61 years ago in Windlesham, Surrey and is single. He is best known as one of the members of the 80s pop duo ‘Wham!’.
During his teens, Ridgeley formed part of a group named ‘The Executive’ which however, did not last long, so in 1981, he joined singer George Michael to form the duo ‘Wham!’. Whilst George was the lead singer and songwriter, plus playing the keyboards, Andrew acted as backing vocalist, played the guitar and co-wrote tracks.
They recorded a demo tape and presented it to various record labels and managed to obtain a contract. Later their first album was released, followed by a new record company. The duo became very popular, particularly between 1982 and 1986 when their records sold over 35 million copies globally. During these years, they had six UK number one hits namely: ‘Wake me up before you go Go’, ‘Careless Whisper’, ‘Freedom’, ‘Last Christmas’, ‘I’m your Man’ and ‘The Edge of Heaven’. Some of these singles also peaked to first place on the US as well as on other European charts.
After mid 1986, ‘Wham!’ split and Ridgeley went to Monaco to try Formula Three motor racing, but with minor success. He then travelled to the US to pursue an acting career, however, was unsuccessful and in 1990 went back for good to England.
That same year, Andrew released his debut solo album that featured a couple of singles which charted fairly in the UK and Australian charts. The album, however, failed to chart and obtained mediocre sales. In view of this, no other albums were issued since.
Ridgeley was involved in a bike ride to aid a charity which helps youths to look at life in a positive way with the help of rugby. He has also published a book and last year inducted his fellow ‘Wham’ companion George Michael into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
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