2016 has been cruel to the world of music.

According to the BBC via his publicist, singer George Michael has died at the age of 53.

Michael, who launched his career as part of the group Wham! and then continued his success as a solo performer, "passed away peacefully at home".

Police say there were no suspicious circumstances after ambulances were summoned to his property in England around 1:42pm local time.

The full statement from his publicist reads as follows:

It is with great sadness that we can confirm our beloved son, brother and friend George passed away peacefully at home over the Christmas period.

The family would ask that their privacy be respected at this difficult and emotional time. There will be no further comment at this stage.

Over his nearly four decade career, George Michael sold more than 100 million albums. And earlier this month it was announced that he was working on a new album.

More From 97.3 The Dawg