Debate Night: Musical Michaels

From the 80s till the early 2000s, two Michaels were a big part of the pop music landscape.

George Michael, born in London, burst on to the scene with Wham! before dueting with Aretha Franklin and Whitney Houston, and turning models into super models. He also played a crucial role, although to an extent involuntary, in the LGBTQ movement. Furthermore, He contributed to lessening the fear of sex amidst the AIDS crisis, at the risk of his career. However, depression, drugs and excess were never far, leading to problems with the law. Still, he sold over 120 million albums, wrote, produced and arranged many of his songs. His song 'Faith', that some called the British 'Thriller', sold 10 million copies in the US alone.

Although Michel Jackson had previously enjoyed massive success alongside his brothers in the Jackson 5 and then on his own, his sixth album 'Thriller', released in 82, catapulted him to new heights. To this day, it is still the best selling album of all time. 'Bad' and 'Dangerous' confirmed the singer's popularity, with the help of his unique dancing and performance styles. Nevertheless, children once close to the pop star made sexual abuse allegations, leading to highly publicized court cases. His extravagant lifestyle further tarnished his reputation during the last years of his life.

Join us for a fun musical debate as we explore how songs and culture are intertwined, why mentalities are shifting, and what the legacy of both artists might look like.

This debate will follow a British Parliamentary format with eight debaters split into four teams of two.

Participants who wish to speak are highly encouraged to bring a paper and pen. You are welcome to participate even if you have no prior debating experience.

⚠️ Disclaimer:
We aim for debates that are respectful, constructive, and welcoming.
• Respect ideas and people: Listen actively, stay quiet while others speak, and debate arguments, not identities or beliefs.
• Be concise and civil: Keep questio