In an age where the media wields excessive power in the music industry, the concept of "damage control" on the part of music artists serves as an essential ingredient to survival - an art that superstars like Madonna have mastered. While artists like Madonna can capitalize on their star power for damage control and to pick up the slack in their music, George Michael relies almost exclusively on his music. With no desire for active self-promotion, his waning star power due to the humiliating "lewd conduct in the public bathroom" incident that also tarnished his "international sex symbol" halo and mystique, and a series of unflattering news articles revolving around his encounters with law enforcement, damage control can be a herculian task. Yet, George Michael manages to clean up his act and deliver his latest offering reasonably well - but maybe not to his full potential.

Thematically, "An Easier Affair" is about 8 years late and probably would have been an apt single to accompany his "coming out of the closet" statement in 1998. It is a song for his ardent and obsessive female fans explaining the reality that revolves around his homosexuality. The song starts off with a rather lackluster and generic sound but a minute into the song, just when the listener might begin to think this is the end of George Michael, he breaks into his chorus - a smooth and sexy amalgam of brilliant lyrics, an incredibly catchy tune, and an immaculate production that is bound to leave the listener longing for more. In doing so, he leaves no incentive for listeners to switch tracks. In fact, the song is bound to be a winner on the dancefloor if it ever hits the nightclub circuit. "An Easier Affair" is a marriage of George Michael's lyrical genius and impeccable pop sensitivity - a true reminder of how he swept the music world off its feet when he first surfaced 25 years ago.

In the dance arena, all music by George Michael will be compared to the golden standard he set with his 1996 hit single "Fast Love" - a feat he his highly unlikely to surpass. That being said, "Easier Affair" holds a close "runners-up" spot to "Fast Love" - and is probably his best musical offering ever since. Its only real detractor is that it seems like a rather rushed effort. If only Michael had given the same standard of finishing touches to the rest of the song that he did to the chorus, he may have stood a solid chance of recreating the same personal fortunes that he did with "Fast Love". His unjustified urge to get this song on the radio is probably his only fault and a rather odd break from the perfectionist streak that he has exhibited over the last 25 years. However, the single still remains true to the George Michael musical legacy and holds up well alongside great dance classics such as "Too Funky", "Fast Love" and "Outside". Its fresh, current, addictive and modern vibe is bound to leave him in the league of significant and trend-setting music artists for a very long time.

Prior to the release of "An Easier Affair", a period of troubles and tribulations with the law for Michael, most entertainment magazines raised the question "Is this the end of George Michael?".

The answer: Absolutely not. Based on this song, it is highly unlikely that George Michael will fade into oblivion anytime soon. Despite claims that he is quitting the music industry, he ain't goin nowhere!!!

You know, one thing I have to say about George Michael is that he is probably one of the most brilliant and talented pop songwriters to come out (no pun intended) in the last 20 years. I think this new song is a real gem, and I agree that it's his best since "Fastlove". This song reels George back in from the Freeeek / Shoot The Dog hardened sound to his dance pop style which really suits his voice much better. The fact that the song pretty much puts it all out there says a ton, and I love his lyrical ability to state what has happened or is happening in his life very clearly. The bridge of this song is an excellent anthem statement to any young person coming out or anyone facing major changes in their life.

If the rest of the album is this good, I simply can't wait!

Bravo George for being who you are!

I would like to add that if you are a true fan, you will appreciate GM honesty and artistic gifts. I love the new song, and anticipate the forth coming album. This song is catchy as well as creative. A must have for anyone who loves great music.