Live Review: George Michael in Phoenix

During the last 17 years away from US stages, George Michael was known more to Americans for his unlawful shenanigans than his European hits "Star People" and "Outside."

However, about 10,000 fans showed their intense faith to Michael during the Phoenix stop of what is reportedly his last arena tour. Michael was grateful.

"Before we go any further, thank you for being here this evening," he told the crowd Sunday (6/22) at Phoenix's US Airways Center. "There are many of you here who have stuck by me for a good 25 years now. You are the people I am most certainly here for."

Followers responded rabidly whenever Michael shared any sort of sexual lyric in songs such as "Father Figure" and "I'm Your Man." Michael soaked in the adulation, often clapping along with the audience.

Unlike a recent appearance on "American Idol," Michael's vocals and physical presence were strong--although, he admitted, he did, in fact, need a little help from the crowd. In introducing "Everything She Wants," he told fans, "I need you to sing some of this for me because I'm 45 in a couple of days' time. So take pity. You take care of the high notes."

Most of the songs sounded just as they did on record. However, for "One More Try," he upped the gospel ante, singing the hit with the background vocalists in a circle around him. He indulged in a few covers too, offering a striking rendition of Nina Simone's "Feeling Good" as well as a sultry cover of The Police's "Roxanne."

In acknowledging the newly established right to gay marriage in California, Michael dedicated "Amazing" to his longtime partner, Kenny Goss.

"It just so happens the week we get into town, California started letting people like me get married," he said. "This is for Kenny."

In addition to his backing band, Michael was accompanied on stage by six background singers. The pair of multilevel, balcony-like structures that housed the musicians were positioned between three giant video screens that provided stunning images to enhance Michael's performance. During "I'm Your Man," the screens aired footage of the song's music video, complete with flashes of onetime Wham! partner Andrew Ridgeley.

Michael acknowledged that some fans may not know songs that were European hits, such as "Spinning the Wheel" and "Easier Affair," but it was definitely a memorable event nonetheless--for the crowd and Michael.

"We've only been here a week," he said, "and I can't believe how amazing the American crowds have been."

Set list

First Half:
"Waiting" (Reprise)
"Fast Love/I'm Your Man"
"Father Figure"
"Hard Day"
"Everything She Wants"
"One More Try"
"Different Corner"
"Easier Affair"
"Too Funky"
"Star People"

Second Half:
"Faith"
"Spinning the Wheel"
"Feeling Good"
"Roxanne"
"Kissing a Fool"
"Amazing"
"Flawless"
"Outside"
"Praying for Time"
"Careless Whisper"

Encore:
"Freedom 90"
"Freedom" Reprise