George Michael remains an indelible icon in the realm of pop music, his legacy defined by a plethora of timeless hits that continue to captivate audiences across generations. From his early days as one half of the groundbreaking duo Wham! to his illustrious solo career, George Michael’s impact on the music industry is unparalleled. In this article, we embark on a journey through his illustrious discography to celebrate the top 10 best George Michael songs of all time. Each track represents a unique facet of his artistry, showcasing his unparalleled vocal prowess, songwriting genius, and unwavering ability to craft melodies that resonate deeply with listeners. Whether it’s the infectious energy of his dance-pop anthems or the poignant introspection of his ballads, George Michael’s music transcends boundaries of time and genre. As we delve into this curated list, we’ll explore the stories behind each song, examining their cultural significance and enduring popularity. Join us as we pay homage to a musical maestro whose influence continues to shape the landscape of contemporary music, one timeless track at a time.
1. Faith
“Faith” stands as the quintessential emblem of George Michael’s artistry, solidifying its place as one of the top, most beloved tracks in his illustrious career. Released in 1987 as the title track of his debut solo album, the song effortlessly blends infectious pop hooks with Michael’s signature soulful voice, creating an anthem that transcends generations.
At its core, “Faith” is a celebration of self-assurance and independence, underscored by its unforgettable guitar riff and Michael’s charismatic delivery. The song’s upbeat tempo and irresistible groove make it an instant classic, earning it widespread acclaim and commercial success worldwide.
Not only did “Faith” dominate the charts upon its release, but it also earned Michael a Grammy Award for Best R&B Vocal Performance, Male, further cementing its status as one of his most iconic achievements. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal, as it continues to resonate with audiences across the globe, whether through its infectious melody or its empowering message.
In the pantheon of George Michael’s repertoire, “Faith” remains a shining jewel, beloved by fans old and new, and serving as a testament to his unparalleled talent as a singer, songwriter, and performer.
2. Careless Whisper
“Careless Whisper” emerges as one of George Michael’s most enduring and emotionally resonant compositions, securing its position as a perennial favorite among music enthusiasts worldwide. Released in 1984 as part of his tenure with the duo Wham!, the song captivated audiences with its haunting saxophone melody and poignant lyrics.
At its heart, “Careless Whisper” delves into themes of love, betrayal, and regret, its evocative narrative conveyed through Michael’s soulful vocals and the iconic saxophone riff that has become synonymous with the song. Its melancholic yet captivating melody strikes a chord with listeners, drawing them into its bittersweet tale of romantic turmoil.
Upon its release, “Careless Whisper” soared to the top of charts across the globe, showcasing Michael’s undeniable talent as both a vocalist and songwriter. Its enduring popularity has solidified its status as a timeless classic, earning it a permanent place in the annals of music history.
Decades after its initial release, “Careless Whisper” continues to captivate audiences with its emotive storytelling and unforgettable melody, serving as a testament to George Michael’s enduring legacy as a consummate artist. Its timeless appeal ensures that it remains a cherished favorite among fans, cementing its status as one of the most beloved songs in Michael’s illustrious repertoire.
3. Father Figure
“Father Figure” stands as a testament to George Michael’s versatility and songwriting prowess, earning its place as one of his most revered tracks. Released in 1988 as part of his debut solo album “Faith,” the song showcases Michael’s ability to blend soulful melodies with introspective lyrics, creating a captivating narrative that resonates deeply with listeners.
At its core, “Father Figure” explores themes of desire, longing, and emotional complexity, with Michael’s velvety vocals delivering each line with a poignant sincerity. The song’s seductive groove and lush instrumentation draw listeners in, while its evocative lyrics invite them to reflect on the complexities of human relationships.
Upon its release, “Father Figure” garnered widespread acclaim from critics and audiences alike, earning praise for its emotional depth and musical craftsmanship. Its chart-topping success solidified its status as one of George Michael’s most iconic songs, showcasing his ability to transcend genres and connect with listeners on a profound level.
Decades after its debut, “Father Figure” remains a timeless classic, revered for its haunting melody and thought-provoking lyrics. Its enduring popularity serves as a testament to George Michael’s enduring legacy as a masterful songwriter and performer, ensuring that it continues to captivate audiences for generations to come.
4. One More Try
“One More Try” emerges as a poignant ballad that encapsulates George Michael’s profound ability to convey raw emotion through his music. Released in 1988 as part of his debut solo album “Faith,” the song stands out for its heartfelt lyrics and soul-stirring melody.
At its core, “One More Try” delves into the depths of vulnerability and longing, with Michael’s soulful vocals laying bare the complexities of love and heartache. The song’s stripped-down arrangement, featuring delicate piano chords and subtle orchestration, allows the raw emotion of Michael’s performance to take center stage, resonating deeply with listeners on a visceral level.
Upon its release, “One More Try” soared to the top of the charts, earning critical acclaim and cementing its status as one of George Michael’s most cherished compositions. Its universal themes of love and redemption struck a chord with audiences around the world, solidifying its place as a timeless classic in the realm of pop balladry.
Decades after its debut, “One More Try” continues to captivate listeners with its haunting beauty and heartfelt lyricism. Its enduring popularity serves as a testament to George Michael’s unparalleled talent as a songwriter and performer, ensuring that it remains a beloved favorite among fans old and new for years to come.
5. Freedom! ’90
“Freedom! ’90” epitomizes George Michael’s artistic evolution and stands as a landmark anthem in his illustrious career. Released in 1990 as a part of his album “Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1,” the song marks a departure from his earlier pop sound, embracing a more mature and introspective musical style.
At its core, “Freedom! ’90” is a declaration of independence and self-discovery, with Michael boldly asserting his autonomy both personally and professionally. The song’s infectious groove, driven by a powerful rhythm section and gospel-inspired backing vocals, exudes a sense of liberation and empowerment that resonates with listeners.
The accompanying music video, featuring iconic supermodels lip-syncing the lyrics, further solidified the song’s impact and cemented its status as a cultural touchstone of the 1990s. Through its bold imagery and defiant spirit, “Freedom! ’90” became more than just a song—it became a rallying cry for individuality and self-expression.
Despite initially facing challenges with its release, “Freedom! ’90” eventually became one of George Michael’s most beloved and enduring hits, earning critical acclaim and commercial success worldwide. Its timeless appeal and message of authenticity continue to resonate with audiences, ensuring its place as a standout track in the George Michael canon.
6. I Want Your Sex
“I Want Your Sex” is a provocative and groundbreaking track that boldly explores themes of desire, intimacy, and sexual liberation. Released in 1987 as part of George Michael’s debut solo album “Faith,” the song generated significant controversy upon its release due to its explicit lyrics and bold subject matter.
At its core, “I Want Your Sex” challenges societal taboos surrounding sexuality, with Michael delivering a candid and unapologetic message about the importance of physical intimacy within relationships. The song’s infectious rhythm, sultry vocals, and electrifying guitar riffs create a seductive atmosphere that captivates listeners from the first note.
Despite facing censorship and backlash from conservative groups, “I Want Your Sex” became a commercial success, topping charts around the world and solidifying George Michael’s reputation as a boundary-pushing artist. Its bold and unabashed exploration of sexuality helped spark important conversations about freedom of expression and sexual empowerment in popular culture.
Decades after its release, “I Want Your Sex” remains a controversial yet influential track in George Michael’s catalog, revered for its daring approach to addressing taboo subjects. Its impact on the music industry and cultural landscape endures, serving as a testament to Michael’s fearlessness and willingness to challenge societal norms through his artistry.
7. Jesus to a Child
“Jesus to a Child” stands as a poignant and deeply personal ballad that showcases George Michael’s exceptional talent for blending heartfelt lyricism with soul-stirring melodies. Released in 1996 as part of his third studio album “Older,” the song holds a special place in Michael’s repertoire as a tribute to a lost love.
At its core, “Jesus to a Child” is a heartfelt reflection on grief, loss, and the enduring power of love. Written in memory of Michael’s partner Anselmo Feleppa, who passed away from AIDS-related complications, the song is imbued with a sense of longing and emotional depth that resonates with listeners on a profound level.
The song’s lush orchestration and Michael’s soulful vocals create a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere, drawing listeners into its introspective narrative. Through its poignant lyrics and evocative melody, “Jesus to a Child” serves as a cathartic expression of grief and a tribute to the enduring bond between two souls.
Upon its release, “Jesus to a Child” received widespread acclaim from critics and audiences alike, earning praise for its emotional resonance and musical craftsmanship. Its timeless appeal has solidified its status as one of George Michael’s most cherished compositions, continuing to touch hearts and inspire listeners with its heartfelt sincerity.
Decades after its debut, “Jesus to a Child” remains a testament to George Michael’s enduring legacy as a masterful songwriter and performer, showcasing his ability to convey profound emotions through his music. Its lasting impact serves as a poignant reminder of the power of love to transcend even the deepest of sorrows.
8. Praying for Time
“Praying for Time” emerges as a profound and introspective masterpiece within George Michael’s discography, renowned for its poignant lyricism and timeless relevance. Released in 1990 as part of his album “Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1,” the song captivates audiences with its somber melody and thought-provoking message.
At its core, “Praying for Time” delves into themes of societal injustice, inequality, and the fleeting nature of time. George Michael’s emotive vocals, paired with the song’s haunting piano accompaniment, evoke a sense of urgency and contemplation, inviting listeners to reflect on the world around them.
The song’s introspective lyrics, which confront issues such as poverty, war, and environmental degradation, resonate deeply with audiences, serving as a powerful call to action for social change. Through its poetic storytelling and impassioned delivery, “Praying for Time” transcends its era, remaining as relevant today as it was upon its release.
Despite its initial reception, which was overshadowed by controversy surrounding its music video and promotional efforts, “Praying for Time” has since garnered widespread acclaim from critics and fans alike. Its enduring popularity and lasting impact cement its status as one of George Michael’s most profound and socially conscious compositions, showcasing his ability to use music as a platform for introspection and advocacy.
Decades after its debut, “Praying for Time” continues to resonate with listeners around the world, inspiring empathy, compassion, and a renewed sense of hope for a better future. Its timeless message serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of music to provoke thought and inspire change.
9. Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me (with Elton John)
“Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me,” featuring the iconic collaboration between George Michael and Elton John, represents a pinnacle of emotional depth and vocal prowess. Originally released by Elton John in 1974, the 1991 live duet between these two legends became an instant classic.
At its core, “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” is a heartfelt plea for connection and redemption, with Michael and John’s powerful vocals intertwining to deliver a performance brimming with raw emotion and sincerity. The live rendition infuses new life into the song, capturing the energy of their dynamic onstage chemistry and mutual respect.
The song’s soaring melody and sweeping orchestration provide a fitting backdrop for the impassioned vocal performances of both artists, creating a moment of musical transcendence that resonates deeply with audiences. Their harmonies and vocal interplay elevate the song to new heights, imbuing it with a sense of urgency and poignancy that is impossible to ignore.
Released as a charity single, the duet version of “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” quickly climbed the charts, earning critical acclaim and commercial success worldwide. Its enduring popularity and lasting impact serve as a testament to the timeless talent of George Michael and Elton John, solidifying their place as two of the greatest voices in the history of popular music.
Decades after its release, “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” remains a cherished favorite among fans, celebrated for its emotional resonance and unparalleled vocal performances. The collaboration between George Michael and Elton John stands as a shining example of the transformative power of music to unite hearts and minds across generations.
10. Outside
“Outside” stands as a bold and liberating anthem in George Michael’s repertoire, celebrated for its infectious groove and unapologetic embrace of sexual freedom. Released in 1998 as a single from his greatest hits album “Ladies & Gentlemen: The Best of George Michael,” the song garnered attention for its provocative lyrics and catchy melody.
At its core, “Outside” is a celebration of self-expression and breaking free from societal norms, with Michael’s irreverent lyrics and upbeat rhythm encouraging listeners to embrace their desires without shame or inhibition. The song’s disco-infused sound and pulsating beat create an irresistible energy that invites audiences to dance and revel in their own authenticity.
The accompanying music video, featuring Michael humorously parodying his infamous arrest for public indecency, further cemented the song’s status as a defiant statement of empowerment. Through its playful imagery and tongue-in-cheek humor, “Outside” became more than just a song—it became a rallying cry for sexual liberation and acceptance.
Despite facing censorship and controversy upon its release, “Outside” ultimately became a commercial success, topping charts and earning critical acclaim for its infectious energy and fearless attitude. Its enduring popularity serves as a testament to George Michael’s fearless spirit and unwavering commitment to pushing boundaries through his music.
Decades after its debut, “Outside” remains a beloved favorite among fans, cherished for its boldness and irreverence. Its message of self-acceptance and liberation continues to resonate with audiences, making it a timeless anthem for anyone who refuses to conform to society’s expectations.
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.
