Few artists have blended soul, style, and vulnerability quite like George Michael. With a voice that could melt hearts or ignite dance floors, he rose from pop superstardom with Wham! to become one of the most powerful solo performers of his generation. George wasn’t just a singer—he was a storyteller, a boundary-breaker, and a true icon whose music touched millions. Whether he was belting out club anthems, crooning tender ballads, or delivering socially conscious lyrics, his sound was always unmistakable: rich, emotional, and effortlessly cool.
In this article, we celebrate the top 10 most popular George Michael songs of all time—the unforgettable tracks that showcase his vocal brilliance, songwriting genius, and fearless artistry. These are the songs that defined a generation and continue to resonate today, from chart-topping hits to soulful slow jams that speak straight to the heart. Whether you’ve been a fan since the ‘80s or just discovering his magic, this list is a tribute to a legacy that still shines bright in the world of pop and R&B.
So get ready to sing along, dance it out, and maybe even shed a tear—because when George Michael sang, the world listened. Let’s dive into the timeless greatness of a true music legend.
1. Jesus to a Child (1996)
“Jesus to a Child” marked George Michael’s deeply personal return to music after a turbulent period marked by grief and self-reflection. Released in 1996, the song was a tribute to Anselmo Feleppa, Michael’s late partner, who passed away from an AIDS-related illness. With its gentle bossa nova rhythm, lush string arrangements, and understated production, the track stands as one of Michael’s most emotionally honest compositions. His vocal delivery is somber yet beautiful, carrying both the pain of loss and the grace of remembrance. Lyrics like “Love is a kind of suffering” are delivered with a quiet, aching wisdom, and every note feels like part of a eulogy set to music. It debuted at No. 1 in the UK, a testament not only to Michael’s enduring star power but to the public’s appreciation for his vulnerability. Far from a conventional pop hit, “Jesus to a Child” is a meditative piece on love, grief, and healing. It represents George Michael at his most poetic and introspective, showing the world that even in sorrow, he could create something transcendent.
2. Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me (1991)
“Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me,” the unforgettable duet between George Michael and Elton John, became one of the most iconic live collaborations in pop history. Originally recorded by Elton in 1974, the song was reintroduced to a new generation when the two legends performed it together at the Live Aid tribute to Freddie Mercury in 1991. The live version was so powerful it was released as a single, quickly topping the charts in both the UK and the U.S. What makes this rendition so remarkable is the palpable sense of respect and chemistry between the two performers. Michael’s soulful delivery adds a new layer of emotion to the already heartfelt lyrics, while Elton’s piano and vocal support give it the gravitas of a true classic. It’s more than just a cover—it’s a shared moment of vulnerability and brilliance between two of music’s greatest voices. Their version turns the original into a majestic anthem of hope, loss, and redemption. To this day, the duet remains a stunning example of what happens when mutual admiration and immense talent come together on stage.
3. Last Christmas (1984)
Released in December 1984, “Last Christmas” by Wham! has become one of the most enduring and emotionally resonant holiday songs ever written. While many Christmas songs bask in cheer and jingle bells, George Michael took a different approach—blending heartache with festive spirit. The lyrics tell a bittersweet story of unrequited love, wrapped in shimmering synths and gentle melodies that reflect both seasonal warmth and emotional chill. Michael’s vocals are tender and sincere, capturing the ache of giving your heart to someone who didn’t value it. Though it didn’t reach No. 1 in the UK upon release—thanks to the juggernaut of “Do They Know It’s Christmas?”—it eventually claimed the top spot in 2021, nearly four decades later. The track re-enters global charts every December, a testament to its timeless appeal. “Last Christmas” has been covered countless times, yet the original remains unparalleled in its poignant simplicity. It’s not just a holiday classic—it’s a song that understands the emotional complexity of love and loss during what’s supposed to be the happiest time of year.
4. One More Try (1988)
“One More Try,” released in 1988 as the fourth single from Faith, showcases George Michael’s raw emotional depth and soul-inspired artistry like never before. Unlike the high-energy hits that surrounded it, this ballad takes its time, slowly unfolding into a deeply affecting meditation on love, fear, and vulnerability. The sparse arrangement—featuring soft keyboards, subtle drums, and little else—creates space for Michael’s voice to truly shine. And shine it does. His vocal delivery is stunningly intimate, trembling with hesitation as he sings lines like, “I don’t want to learn to hold you, touch you, think that you’re mine.” This is a man wrestling with heartbreak and unsure if he can survive another emotional blow. The song resonated deeply with audiences, soaring to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming a standout track in his catalog. It’s a reminder that Michael wasn’t just a pop icon—he was a deeply expressive storyteller capable of baring his soul. “One More Try” isn’t flashy or overproduced; it’s honest, restrained, and achingly beautiful. For many fans, it remains one of the most emotionally powerful songs he ever recorded.
5. Freedom! ’90 (1990)
“Freedom! ’90” wasn’t just another hit for George Michael—it was a turning point. Released in 1990 on Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1, the song captured his need to escape the pop persona he’d outgrown. Gone were the flashy outfits and magazine spreads; in their place was a powerful, introspective anthem about reclaiming identity and artistic control. Lyrically, it’s raw and honest: “I don’t belong to you and you don’t belong to me” spoke volumes. Musically, it pulses with piano chords, layered harmonies, and funk-infused grooves, proving Michael could evolve without losing his edge. The music video made just as bold a statement—supermodels like Naomi Campbell and Cindy Crawford mouthed the lyrics while Michael himself was conspicuously absent. That absence was the point. He was shedding a skin, stepping back from fame to express something deeper. While it didn’t top the UK charts, it soared in the U.S. and became a fan favorite. More than 30 years later, “Freedom! ’90” still feels fresh—an anthem for anyone breaking free from expectations and reclaiming their truth. It’s George Michael at his most defiant, artistic, and timeless.
6. Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go (1984)
Few songs capture the sheer joy of 1980s pop like “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go.” Released in 1984, this infectious Wham! single burst onto the scene with vibrant energy and a chorus impossible to forget. Inspired by a silly note Andrew Ridgeley left for his parents, George Michael turned it into a pure pop explosion. From the opening handclaps to the bouncy melody and upbeat vocals, the song radiates happiness. Its feel-good spirit helped it shoot to No. 1 on both the UK and U.S. charts. The accompanying music video—featuring the duo in “CHOOSE LIFE” T-shirts and surrounded by neon and dancing teens—became a quintessential ‘80s visual, forever etched in pop culture memory. Yet beneath the playful exterior lies smart songwriting and tight production that highlight Michael’s ear for crafting hits. “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” is more than a catchy tune—it’s a celebration of youth, friendship, and the kind of uncomplicated fun that defined a generation. It still puts smiles on faces and fills dance floors today.
7. Everything She Wants (1984)
“Everything She Wants,” released in 1984 on Wham!’s Make It Big album, revealed a darker, more mature side to the duo’s sound—and to George Michael’s songwriting in particular. While the band was known for infectious pop hits, this track tackled the emotional weight of a strained relationship, exploring themes of resentment, pressure, and sacrifice. Driven by a hypnotic synth groove and a moody, mid-tempo beat, the song tells the story of a man who gives everything to his partner, only to find it’s never enough. Michael’s vocal performance is both passionate and pained, perfectly capturing the emotional conflict simmering beneath the surface. The song struck a chord with audiences and critics alike, becoming a No. 1 hit in the U.S. and showcasing Wham!’s—and Michael’s—ability to tackle complex emotional narratives through pop music. Unlike their sunnier hits, “Everything She Wants” lingers with listeners, offering a snapshot of love in crisis and foreshadowing the depth Michael would later explore in his solo work. It’s often cited as one of Wham!’s most sophisticated and enduring tracks.
8. Father Figure (1987)
Released in late 1987 from the groundbreaking Faith album, “Father Figure” is one of George Michael’s most mysterious and seductive tracks. Blending sensuality with spiritual undertones, the song creates a dreamlike atmosphere built on whispered vocals, haunting synths, and slow, pulsing rhythms. It’s a far cry from the brash pop of Wham!—here, Michael dives into more complex emotional territory, singing about protection, longing, and a deep, almost sacred connection. The lyrics are open to interpretation, adding layers to the song’s intrigue: is it about romantic love, guidance, or something even deeper? Michael’s delivery is hypnotic, drawing listeners into a hazy world of devotion and desire. “Father Figure” became his second solo No. 1 hit in the U.S., helping to cement his transition from pop heartthrob to serious solo artist. Its understated arrangement and subtle intensity mark it as a masterclass in mood and restraint. The song doesn’t just play—it envelops you. “Father Figure” stands as one of George Michael’s most evocative creations, proving his artistry extended far beyond catchy choruses and into realms of emotional and musical depth rarely explored in mainstream pop.
9. Careless Whisper (1984)
“Careless Whisper” was George Michael’s first solo single, and it instantly made an indelible mark. Released in 1984 while he was still part of Wham!, the song hinted at the solo superstar he was destined to become. That unforgettable saxophone intro sets the mood immediately—melancholy, regretful, and hauntingly beautiful. Amazingly, Michael co-wrote it when he was just 17, yet it’s steeped in emotional depth and lyrical maturity. The narrative of romantic betrayal and guilt unfolds with aching vulnerability, perfectly delivered through his silky vocals. The famous line, “I’m never gonna dance again, guilty feet have got no rhythm,” has become iconic, encapsulating the sorrow of love gone wrong. The song topped charts in over 20 countries and remains one of the most beloved ballads in pop history. Its success helped define the sound of the ’80s and demonstrated Michael’s extraordinary ability to connect deeply with listeners. “Careless Whisper” isn’t just a heartbreak song—it’s a pop masterpiece that continues to resonate across generations, reminding us all of the weight of our choices and the pain of lost love.
10. Faith (1987)
When George Michael released “Faith” in 1987, it was clear he was ready to break free from his Wham! image. The song’s rockabilly guitar riff kicks things off with a swagger, and from the first beat, it’s packed with energy and confidence. As the title track of his debut solo album, “Faith” announced a new era—bold, stylish, and unapologetically his own. Blending rock, pop, funk, and gospel influences, the song became an anthem of self-assurance. Michael’s charismatic delivery and edgy new look—leather jacket, jeans, stubble, and Ray-Bans—turned the track into a cultural moment. The music video added to its iconic status, and fans responded: “Faith” spent four weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and ended up as the best-selling single in the U.S. in 1988. Beyond its catchy hooks, “Faith” symbolized artistic independence. It was George Michael telling the world he could stand on his own—and thrive. With this one song, he redefined his career and helped set the tone for late ’80s pop. “Faith” remains one of the most recognizable and enduring songs of the decade.
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.
