Brief

George Michael Tribute Features Sombr, Raye, Teddy Swims and Adam Lambert at 2026 VMAs

The ceremony saw a lineup of contemporary singers honor George Michael with covers of “Faith,” “Father Figure,” and “Freedom! ’90.”

By Felo News Desk · Published Mon, 28 Sep 2026 20:37:50 GMT

At the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards, a special tribute to George Michael was staged by a group of contemporary singers. Sombr opened the set with “Faith” and “Father Figure,” followed by Raye’s rendition of the 1987 duet “I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me)” with Aretha Franklin. Teddy Swims then performed “Careless Whisper,” and Adam Lambert closed the tribute with an energetic cover of “Freedom! ’90.” The performances were punctuated by a surprise appearance from Lambert, who joined the stage in a fringed black outfit.

Sombr explained that wearing a leather jacket that had once belonged to Michael was a personal homage, saying the late artist’s music remains “relevant and timeless.” He added that Michael’s self‑produced career inspired him, noting that Michael was 19 when he broke internationally. The tribute was introduced by Orville Peck, who called Michael a “pop god.”

The VMAs, which aired live on CBS and MTV on Sunday, September 27, featured a range of memorials and performances. Earlier in the week, Nirvana received its first Video Vanguard award, and Taylor Swift was awarded the first-ever Artist Director Honors. The ceremony also included a Kacey Musgraves tribute to Dolly Parton.

Key facts

Sombr performed “Faith” and “Father Figure” at the tribute (vogue.com)
Raye performed “I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me)” (vogue.com)
Teddy Swims performed “Careless Whisper” (vogue.com)
Adam Lambert performed “Freedom! ’90” and appeared unexpectedly (nypost.com)
Sombr wore a leather jacket owned by George Michael (vogue.com)
Orville Peck introduced the tribute (nypost.com)

Background

The tribute was part of a broader 2026 VMAs program that celebrated legacy artists alongside contemporary acts. Earlier coverage highlighted Nirvana’s Video Vanguard award and Taylor Swift’s new Artist Director Honors, setting the stage for a ceremony that blended past and present music icons.