George Michael was more than just a pop icon—he was a musical force who defined generations with his unforgettable voice, groundbreaking artistry, and timeless hits. From his early days as one-half of Wham! to his extraordinary solo career, George Michael consistently broke barriers, blending genres, exploring bold themes, and delivering music that resonated deeply with millions around the world. Whether he was crafting heart-wrenching ballads, infectious pop anthems, or soulful masterpieces, Michael’s unparalleled talent and charisma made him one of the most celebrated musicians of all time.
In this article, we’re diving into the top 10 most popular George Michael songs of all time—tracks that have stood the test of time and continue to captivate fans old and new. These songs are more than just chart-toppers; they’re cultural milestones that showcase Michael’s ability to connect with listeners through his honesty, passion, and unmatched vocal prowess. From the infectious grooves of “Faith” to the tearful sentiment of “Careless Whisper,” each song tells a story of love, heartbreak, freedom, and hope. So, whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering his genius, this list will take you on a journey through the extraordinary legacy of George Michael. Let’s celebrate the magic of his music!
1. Careless Whisper (1984)
Released in 1984, “Careless Whisper” is more than just a song; it’s a timeless masterpiece that has become a cornerstone of George Michael’s legacy. Co-written with Wham! bandmate Andrew Ridgeley, the track features one of the most recognizable saxophone riffs in music history—a melody so evocative it practically defines heartbreak. The song delves into themes of guilt, betrayal, and regret, with Michael’s hauntingly emotional vocals breathing life into the story of infidelity. The lush production and sophisticated arrangement marked a turning point in his career, showcasing a depth that went far beyond his image as a teen idol. “Careless Whisper” became an instant global phenomenon, topping charts worldwide and solidifying its place as one of the greatest ballads of all time. Its emotional resonance and musical brilliance remain undiminished decades later.
2. Faith (1987)
When George Michael released “Faith” in 1987, he redefined pop music—and himself. The track begins with an unexpected church organ intro before bursting into a high-energy rockabilly rhythm, blending genres in a way that felt fresh and daring. With its irresistible hand-clapping beat and infectious melody, “Faith” became the defining hit of his debut solo album. Its lyrics, centered on resilience, independence, and self-confidence, struck a chord with listeners and catapulted the song to global success, topping charts in multiple countries. Equally iconic was the accompanying music video, with Michael clad in a leather jacket, jeans, and aviator sunglasses—a look that became synonymous with 1980s pop culture. Beyond its infectious sound, “Faith” symbolized Michael’s transition from Wham!’s polished pop to a bolder, edgier solo identity, cementing his place as a musical innovator.
3. Freedom! ’90 (1990)
“Freedom! ’90,” released in 1990, wasn’t just a song; it was George Michael’s bold manifesto against the constraints of fame and the music industry. Featured on his critically acclaimed Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1, the track paired introspective lyrics with a pulsing, funk-inspired beat, creating a timeless anthem of liberation. Eschewing traditional music video norms, Michael famously chose not to appear in the video, instead enlisting supermodels like Naomi Campbell and Cindy Crawford to lip-sync his words. This creative risk paid off, delivering an iconic visual statement that resonated as deeply as the song itself. With themes of self-expression, autonomy, and rebellion, “Freedom! ’90” became an enduring hit, underscoring Michael’s ability to push boundaries while staying true to his artistry.
4. Father Figure (1987)
“Father Figure,” released in 1987, is one of George Michael’s most hauntingly beautiful songs. Taken from his debut solo album, Faith, the track is a sensual ballad that blends hypnotic rhythms with warm, atmospheric synthesizers. Its lyrics, exploring themes of devotion, protection, and love, take on an almost spiritual tone, while Michael’s impassioned vocal delivery draws listeners into its emotional depths. The song’s cinematic music video, filled with moody, romantic visuals, adds to its evocative power, making it a standout in his catalog. “Father Figure” is more than a ballad—it’s a testament to Michael’s ability to convey intimacy and vulnerability through music, solidifying his status as a master storyteller and vocalist.
5. Last Christmas (1984)
“Last Christmas,” released by Wham! in December 1984, has become a seasonal classic, celebrated for its mix of bittersweet emotion and festive charm. The song’s upbeat, synth-driven melody contrasts beautifully with its story of heartbreak and unrequited love during the holiday season. George Michael’s tender vocal delivery strikes the perfect balance between melancholy and hope, creating a track that resonates across generations. Over the years, “Last Christmas” has been covered by countless artists, yet none have captured the original’s magic and sincerity. Decades later, it remains a staple of holiday playlists worldwide, a testament to Michael’s gift for blending emotional depth with irresistible pop appeal.
6. Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go (1984)
“Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” is pure Wham! fun—a jubilant, feel-good anthem that captures the spirit of the 1980s. Released in 1984, the track was inspired by a playful note George Michael’s bandmate Andrew Ridgeley wrote for his parents, and that whimsy shines through in every note. Its retro doo-wop influences, upbeat tempo, and Michael’s exuberant vocals made it an instant hit, dominating charts around the world. The vibrant music video, with its neon shirts and carefree choreography, cemented the song as a cultural touchstone. Decades later, “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” remains an enduring celebration of joy, energy, and the sheer fun of pop music.
7. One More Try (1988)
In “One More Try,” George Michael delivered one of his most vulnerable performances. Released in 1988 as part of his Faith album, the ballad explores the hesitation and fear of opening up to love after experiencing heartbreak. Stripped down and minimalist, the song allows Michael’s soulful voice to take center stage, supported by gentle keyboard melodies that enhance its emotional intensity. The raw honesty of the lyrics, combined with Michael’s heartfelt delivery, makes “One More Try” a deeply moving experience. Its slow-burning passion earned widespread acclaim, further solidifying Michael’s reputation as a master of emotional storytelling.
8. Jesus to a Child (1996)
Released in 1996, “Jesus to a Child” stands as one of George Michael’s most deeply personal works. Written as a tribute to his late partner, Anselmo Feleppa, the song is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and healing. Its lush instrumentation, paired with Michael’s heartfelt vocals, creates a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere. The poetic lyrics reflect both the joy of love and the ache of grief, capturing the bittersweet complexity of human emotion. As the lead single from his Older album, “Jesus to a Child” marked a shift toward more introspective songwriting, earning critical acclaim and showcasing Michael’s unparalleled ability to convey profound emotion through music.
9. Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me (1991)
In 1991, George Michael and Elton John joined forces for a live rendition of “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me,” creating one of the most unforgettable duets in music history. Originally recorded by Elton John in 1974, this version amplified the song’s emotional power, with Michael’s soaring vocals harmonizing beautifully with John’s impassioned delivery. Recorded during a concert in Chicago, the performance captured the raw vulnerability and longing embedded in the lyrics. The duet became a worldwide sensation, topping charts and cementing itself as a staple of both artists’ repertoires. It’s a testament to their mutual respect and their shared ability to connect deeply with audiences.
10. I’m Your Man (1985)
Released in 1985, “I’m Your Man” is classic Wham!—a funky, feel-good track that exudes confidence and charm. Built on an infectious bassline and driven by an upbeat tempo, the song highlights George Michael’s playful side, with flirtatious lyrics and an irresistibly danceable groove. The track’s lively energy made it a fan favorite, embodying the carefree spirit that defined Wham!’s success. At the same time, its polished production hinted at Michael’s growing ambition as a solo artist. “I’m Your Man” remains a vibrant reminder of the joy and exuberance Michael brought to his early career, proving his talent for crafting pure pop perfection.
Samuel Moore is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
