George Michael, born Georgios Kyriacos Panayiotou on June 25, 1963, was an English singer, songwriter, and record producer who rose to fame as a member of the pop duo Wham! before establishing himself as a successful solo artist. He became one of the most prominent figures in the music industry with a career spanning several decades.
In the 1980s, Wham! achieved international success with hits like “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” and “Last Christmas.” George Michael’s soulful voice and charismatic stage presence contributed to the duo’s popularity.
Michael’s solo career took off with the release of his debut solo album, “Faith,” in 1987. The album included chart-topping hits like “Faith,” “Father Figure,” and “Monkey.” His distinctive voice, combined with a blend of pop, soul, and R&B influences, set him apart as a versatile and accomplished artist.
Throughout his career, George Michael faced both personal and legal challenges, but his musical talent remained undeniable. His later works included albums like “Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1” and “Older.”
George Michael’s impact on the music industry goes beyond his chart success; he was celebrated for his vocal prowess, songwriting skills, and his contributions to charity. His legacy endures, and he is remembered as one of the iconic voices of contemporary pop music. George Michael passed away on December 25, 2016, at the age of 53.
1. Faith
“Faith” is the debut solo album by George Michael, released in 1987. The album marked a significant departure from Michael’s earlier work with the pop duo Wham! and established him as a formidable solo artist. “Faith” showcases a blend of pop, R&B, and soul influences, with Michael’s soulful vocals taking center stage.
The title track, “Faith,” became one of George Michael’s most iconic songs and a chart-topping hit. Its upbeat and infectious energy, coupled with a memorable guitar riff, contributed to its widespread success. The accompanying music video, featuring Michael’s signature leather jacket and iconic jukebox, became an iconic image of the late ’80s.
The album also spawned other hits like “Father Figure,” “I Want Your Sex,” “One More Try,” and “Monkey.” “Faith” received critical acclaim for its songwriting, production, and Michael’s vocal delivery. The album went on to win the Grammy Award for Album of the Year in 1989.
“Faith” not only showcased George Michael’s musical versatility but also established him as a solo artist with a distinct identity. The album’s success solidified Michael’s status as a global pop icon, and its influence continues to resonate in the world of pop and R&B music.
2. Careless Whisper
“Careless Whisper” is a soulful ballad by George Michael, released in 1984 as a single credited to “Wham! featuring George Michael.” While Wham! was the musical duo consisting of George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley, the song is often associated more with George Michael’s solo career.
The iconic saxophone riff at the beginning of “Careless Whisper” is instantly recognizable and has become one of the most famous musical motifs in pop music. The song’s lyrics tell a story of guilt and regret over a failed romance.
George Michael co-wrote “Careless Whisper” with his Wham! partner Andrew Ridgeley when they were both just 17 years old. The song marked a departure from Wham!’s earlier, more upbeat sound and showcased Michael’s growing maturity as a songwriter and vocalist.
“Careless Whisper” achieved immense commercial success, topping charts worldwide and becoming one of George Michael’s signature songs. The soulful melody, Michael’s emotive vocals, and the memorable saxophone riff have contributed to the enduring popularity and impact of the song, making it a timeless classic in the realm of pop and balladry.
3. Father Figure
“Father Figure” is a song by George Michael, released in 1988 as the third single from his debut solo album, “Faith.” The song showcases George Michael’s soulful voice and his ability to blend pop, R&B, and adult contemporary elements.
“Father Figure” explores themes of love and desire, with Michael’s lyrics expressing the complexity of a romantic relationship. The song’s smooth and sensual melody, combined with Michael’s rich vocals, creates a seductive and emotional atmosphere.
The accompanying music video features George Michael in a variety of evocative and artistic scenes, complementing the mood of the song. “Father Figure” received critical acclaim for its mature and sophisticated sound, and it became one of George Michael’s successful hits.
The song reached high chart positions internationally and contributed to the overall success of the “Faith” album, which established George Michael as a solo artist of considerable talent and influence. “Father Figure” remains a memorable and cherished part of George Michael’s discography.
4. One More Try
“One More Try” is a song by George Michael, released in 1988 as the fifth and final single from his debut solo album, “Faith.” The ballad showcases George Michael’s soulful and emotive vocals and reflects the album’s diversity in styles.
The lyrics of “One More Try” delve into themes of love, vulnerability, and the challenges of relationships. Michael’s heartfelt delivery adds depth to the emotional content of the song, making it one of the standout tracks on the “Faith” album.
The musical arrangement is relatively stripped-down, allowing Michael’s vocals to take center stage. The song’s soulful melody and poignant lyrics contributed to its success, and it became one of George Michael’s well-known ballads.
“One More Try” achieved commercial success, topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. Its emotional resonance and George Michael’s vocal prowess have made it a classic in his catalog, showcasing his ability to convey deep and universal emotions through his music.
5. Freedom! ’90
“Freedom! ’90” is a song by George Michael, released in 1990 as a single from his album “Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1.” The song marked a departure from Michael’s earlier image and sound, reflecting a more mature and introspective phase in his career.
The lyrics of “Freedom! ’90” convey themes of liberation, self-discovery, and breaking free from the constraints of fame and expectations. The music video, directed by David Fincher, features iconic imagery of supermodels lip-syncing the song, as George Michael himself did not appear in the video. This decision symbolized his desire to move away from the image-focused music videos of his past.
The song is characterized by a soulful and gospel-inspired sound, showcasing George Michael’s vocal range and emotional depth. “Freedom! ’90” became a critical and commercial success, and its timeless appeal has solidified it as one of George Michael’s signature tracks.
The track has been covered and sampled by various artists, and its impact extends beyond the realm of pop music. “Freedom! ’90” stands as a testament to George Michael’s artistic evolution and his ability to craft meaningful and enduring music that resonates with listeners on a deeper level.
6. I Want Your Sex
“I Want Your Sex” is a provocative and controversial song by George Michael, released in 1987 as part of his debut solo album, “Faith.” The track was a departure from the clean-cut image Michael had cultivated during his Wham! days and was met with both commercial success and scrutiny due to its explicit content.
The song’s lyrics explore themes of desire and intimacy, and it was perceived as a bold departure from the more mainstream pop music that George Michael had previously been associated with. The title and lyrics led to some radio stations initially refusing to play the song, while others played censored versions.
Despite the initial controversy, “I Want Your Sex” became a hit, reaching high positions on music charts globally. The accompanying music video, featuring George Michael in a provocative performance, added to the song’s edgy reputation.
Beyond its controversial nature, the song showcased George Michael’s musical versatility, incorporating elements of funk and R&B into his pop sound. While the explicit content raised eyebrows, it also demonstrated Michael’s commitment to artistic expression and his willingness to challenge societal norms through his music. Despite the initial backlash, “I Want Your Sex” remains a notable and influential part of George Michael’s solo career.
7. Jesus to a Child
“Jesus to a Child” is a song by George Michael, released in 1996 as the lead single from his third studio album, “Older.” The song is a poignant and reflective ballad that holds deep personal meaning for George Michael.
The lyrics of “Jesus to a Child” are widely believed to be a tribute to Michael’s late partner, Anselmo Feleppa, who passed away in 1993. The song expresses love, loss, and the emotional journey of grief. Michael’s soulful vocals and the melodic arrangement contribute to the overall emotive impact of the track.
The title itself, “Jesus to a Child,” suggests a profound and pure form of love. The music video, directed by George Michael, features a symbolic visual narrative that complements the song’s themes.
“Jesus to a Child” received critical acclaim for its maturity, depth, and the sincerity of Michael’s performance. The song became a commercial success and is often regarded as one of George Michael’s masterpieces. It remains a significant and touching entry in his body of work, showcasing his ability to convey profound emotions through his music.
8. Praying for Time
“Praying for Time” is a poignant and socially conscious ballad by George Michael, released in 1990 as part of his second solo album, “Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1.” The song stands out for its introspective lyrics and soulful melody, reflecting Michael’s growing desire to address deeper societal issues through his music.
“Praying for Time” delves into themes of social injustice, inequality, and the passage of time. The lyrics express a sense of disillusionment with the world and a call for compassion and understanding. George Michael’s emotive vocals and the stripped-down arrangement contribute to the song’s emotional impact.
Despite its somber tone, “Praying for Time” received critical acclaim for its depth and sincerity. The song also resonated with audiences and achieved commercial success. The accompanying music video, directed by David Fincher, features powerful imagery that complements the song’s themes.
“Praying for Time” showcased a more mature and reflective side of George Michael, distancing himself from the pop image he had cultivated earlier in his career. The song remains a testament to his evolution as an artist and his willingness to use his platform to address meaningful issues through his music.
9. Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me (with Elton John)
“Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” is a song performed by Elton John and written by Elton John and his longtime collaborator Bernie Taupin. The song was originally released on Elton John’s album “Caribou” in 1974. However, it gained renewed popularity when Elton John and George Michael performed a live duet version during the Live Aid concert in 1985.
The live version of “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” was released as a single in 1991 and became a major hit. The performance showcased the powerful vocals of both Elton John and George Michael, and the emotional intensity of their duet resonated with audiences.
The lyrics of the song express a plea for understanding and support during difficult times. The title phrase, “Don’t let the sun go down on me,” captures the sentiment of not wanting to be left alone or abandoned.
The duet version of “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” reached the top of the charts in multiple countries, becoming one of Elton John’s and George Michael’s signature collaborations. The success of the song highlighted the enduring appeal of their respective talents and the emotional depth of the composition.
10. Outside
“Outside” is a dance-pop single by George Michael, released in 1998. The song was part of his album “Ladies & Gentlemen: The Best of George Michael” and marked a return to the music scene after a hiatus. The track gained attention not only for its catchy beat but also for its controversial subject matter and the circumstances surrounding its release.
“Outside” was Michael’s response to his highly publicized arrest for “engaging in a lewd act” in a public restroom in Beverly Hills in 1998. The lyrics and the music video cheekily addressed the incident and the media frenzy that followed, with Michael using humor and satire to deflect attention from the scandal.
The upbeat and energetic nature of “Outside” made it a hit on the charts, and the song’s success demonstrated Michael’s ability to turn personal challenges into artistic expression. The music video, featuring disco balls, dancing policemen, and colorful imagery, further emphasized the song’s celebration of freedom and liberation.
“Outside” showcased George Michael’s resilience, sense of humor, and continued relevance as an artist willing to address personal issues in his music. The track remains a notable entry in his discography, embodying his ability to use music as a form of self-expression and commentary on contemporary culture.
Edward Tomlin 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.
