George Michael beats Michael Jackson, Queen in Icon poll

George Michael has been named the "greatest music icon of all time" by listeners of Smooth Radio. This is the fourth year in a row he has topped the list.

Michael passed away in 2016. In this year's poll, he ranked above other famous stars like Michael Jackson, Queen, Whitney Houston, and ABBA, who took the next four spots.

George Michael's official estate shared a statement saying he would have felt proud and thankful for the love he's still getting from his fans around the world.

“We are absolutely delighted that George has once again been voted Smooth Radio’s ‘ultimate artist’ in the annual Smooth Icons Top 100 for 2026."

They continued, “George would have been immensely proud of this and above all grateful to everyone who continues to support him and his music with such extraordinary loyalty and affection."

“To Smooth Radio, its listeners and George’s wonderful fans around the world, as always, thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”

The rest of the top ten included stars like Elton John, Michael's old band Wham!, Phil Collins, Celine Dion, and Elvis Presley.

With Wham!, Michael had several big hit songs with his bandmate Andrew Ridgeley. Some of their most famous songs are still loved today. The band also released several successful albums before breaking up in 1986.

After that, Michael became a successful solo artist. He released many hit songs and albums on his own. Some of his best-known songs include Careless Whisper and a song he sang together with Elton John.