# George Michael Tribute Set for 2026 VMAs

> George Michael tribute performance set for 2026 VMAs.
- Title: George Michael Tribute Set for 2026 VMAs · Billboard
- Summary: George Michael tribute performance set for 2026 VMAs. RAYE, SOMBR, and Swims will honor George Michael at 2026 VMAs.
- Keywords: raye, sombr, swims, george michael, vmas, 2026, mtv, George, Michael, Tribute, Set, Billboard
- Source: Billboard — https://billboard.com/music/awards/george-michael-tribute-set-2026-vmas-1236344649
- Author: Paul Grein
- Published: 2026-09-22T18:34:50+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: raye, sombr, swims, george michael, vmas, 2026, mtv
## George Michael Tribute Performance
RAYE, SOMBR, and Swims will perform a tribute to George Michael at the 2026 MTV VMAs.
## Tribute Artists Background
These three artists, aged 21 to 33, were born after Michael's career peak, showing his music's reach to new generations.
## Music Director
Adam Blackstone will serve as music director for the tribute performance.
## George Michael's Legacy
Michael died on Christmas Day 2016 at age 53, with his music reaching new generations through tributes.
## 2026 VMAs Details
The VMAs will air Sunday, Sept. 27 (7:30-9:30 p.m. ET/4:30-6:30 p.m. PT) on CBS, MTV, and Paramount+.
## RAYE's Performance
RAYE will make her VMAs performance debut with a solo performance and is twice nominated this year.
## SOMBR's Performance
SOMBR returns to the VMAs for the second year in a row and is nominated for three awards.
## Key takeaway

RAYE, SOMBR, and Swims will honor George Michael at 2026 VMAs.