George Michael, the iconic British singer-songwriter, left an indelible mark on the music industry with his soulful voice and poignant lyrics. From his early days as part of Wham! to his prolific solo career, Michael’s songs continue to resonate with audiences worldwide. This article explores the timeless appeal of his music through a curated list of his Top 10 Best Songs. Beginning with the introspective ballad “Praying for Time,” Michael’s ability to blend social commentary with melodious hooks is showcased. His chart-topping anthem “Faith” follows, a celebration of independence and groove that remains a dancefloor staple. Each song on this list, from the heartfelt “Father Figure” to the infectious energy of “Outside,” reflects Michael’s versatility and artistry. “One More Try” stands as a testament to his emotive vocal delivery, while “I Want Your Sex” challenges conventions with its bold lyricism. “Jesus to a Child,” a poignant tribute to loss, underscores his ability to evoke profound emotions through music. Through this exploration, we celebrate George Michael’s enduring legacy and the impact of his music on generations of listeners worldwide.
1. Careless Whisper
“Careless Whisper” stands as one of George Michael’s most iconic songs, captivating listeners worldwide since its release in 1984. With its unforgettable saxophone riff and soulful vocals, the song embodies the essence of 80s pop and George Michael’s distinctive style. The heartfelt lyrics explore themes of guilt and regret in love, resonating deeply with audiences across generations. Its success on charts globally, including reaching No. 1 in 25 countries, solidified its status as a timeless classic.
Beyond its musical achievements, “Careless Whisper” showcases George Michael’s versatility as a songwriter and performer. The song’s enduring popularity is evident in its frequent use in films, TV shows, and covers by other artists, further cementing its place in popular culture. Michael’s vocal prowess and emotional delivery in “Careless Whisper” remain unparalleled, making it a staple in both his repertoire and the broader landscape of pop music history.
2. Faith
“Faith,” released in 1987, marked George Michael’s transition from his pop duo days in Wham! to a solo superstar. The song’s infectious energy, driven by its rockabilly-inspired guitar riff and Michael’s charismatic vocals, became an anthem of confidence and independence. Its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus propelled it to the top of charts worldwide, showcasing Michael’s ability to craft instantly recognizable hits.
Lyrically, “Faith” celebrates self-assurance and personal freedom, reflecting Michael’s own artistic and personal evolution. The accompanying music video, featuring Michael in his iconic leather jacket and shades, further solidified its impact on pop culture, becoming an enduring image of 80s style and attitude.
Critically acclaimed and commercially successful, “Faith” earned George Michael a Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance. Its enduring popularity is underscored by its frequent use in movies, TV shows, and commercials, ensuring its place as a timeless classic in the pop music canon. With its blend of rock, pop, and soul influences, “Faith” remains a standout track in George Michael’s illustrious career, embodying his musical versatility and enduring appeal.
3. One More Try
“One More Try,” released in 1988 from George Michael’s debut solo album “Faith,” stands out as a poignant ballad that showcases his exceptional vocal range and emotive delivery. The song’s introspective lyrics delve into themes of heartache, vulnerability, and the complexities of love. Michael’s soulful performance, backed by a minimalistic piano arrangement, creates a deeply intimate atmosphere that resonates with listeners on a profound level.
The track’s success on the charts, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, highlighted its universal appeal and solidified its place as one of George Michael’s signature songs. Its raw honesty and sincerity struck a chord with audiences worldwide, earning critical acclaim and enduring popularity.
“One More Try” remains a testament to George Michael’s ability to blend pop sensibilities with soulful depth, showcasing his growth as a solo artist beyond his Wham! days. Its inclusion in numerous retrospectives of Michael’s career underscores its significance as a timeless ballad that continues to touch hearts and inspire new generations of listeners.
4. Father Figure
“Father Figure,” released in 1987 as part of George Michael’s debut solo album “Faith,” is a sultry and introspective ballad that explores themes of desire, intimacy, and longing. The song is characterized by its seductive melody, smooth R&B groove, and Michael’s deep, soulful vocals, which convey a sense of emotional intensity and vulnerability.
Lyrically, “Father Figure” delves into complex emotions, portraying a yearning for connection and understanding in a romantic relationship. The metaphorical exploration of roles and expectations adds depth to the song, reflecting Michael’s ability to tackle profound themes with subtlety and maturity.
The track’s music video, featuring Michael in shadowy, atmospheric settings, further enhances its sensual allure and thematic richness. “Father Figure” achieved commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in the United States, and garnered critical acclaim for its sophisticated production and Michael’s captivating performance.
As one of the standout tracks from “Faith,” “Father Figure” remains a testament to George Michael’s artistry and enduring influence in blending pop with elements of R&B and soul. Its timeless appeal continues to resonate with listeners, cementing its status as a classic in Michael’s illustrious discography.
5. I Want Your Sex
“I Want Your Sex,” released in 1987 as part of George Michael’s debut solo album “Faith,” caused a stir with its bold lyrics and provocative themes. The song’s title and lyrics challenged societal norms at the time, addressing desire and intimacy with unabashed honesty and confidence. Musically, it blended pop, funk, and R&B influences, featuring a catchy melody and Michael’s charismatic vocals.
Despite its controversial reception due to its explicit content, “I Want Your Sex” became a chart-topping hit, showcasing George Michael’s willingness to push boundaries and explore new artistic territory. The song’s release was accompanied by a provocative music video that emphasized its themes of sensuality and liberation.
Beyond its initial controversy, “I Want Your Sex” sparked important discussions about freedom of expression and sexual identity in popular music. It remains a significant part of George Michael’s legacy, illustrating his ability to provoke thought while maintaining his signature blend of pop craftsmanship and artistic daring.
As a bold statement on passion and desire, “I Want Your Sex” continues to be remembered for its impact on pop culture and its role in challenging conventions within the music industry.
6. Freedom! ’90
“Freedom! ’90,” released in 1990, stands as one of George Michael’s most iconic and transformative songs. Departing from his earlier pop sound, this track from the album “Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1” is a powerful anthem of liberation and self-expression. Its lyrics reflect Michael’s personal and professional journey, addressing his struggles with fame, artistic freedom, and identity.
Musically, “Freedom! ’90” combines soulful vocals with a sophisticated blend of R&B, gospel, and pop-rock elements. The song’s infectious rhythm, accompanied by a memorable chorus and rich instrumentation, captivated audiences and critics alike.
The music video for “Freedom! ’90” became equally iconic, featuring supermodels lip-syncing the lyrics in place of Michael himself. Directed by David Fincher, it became a visual landmark in music video history, further cementing the song’s impact on pop culture.
Critically acclaimed and commercially successful, “Freedom! ’90” remains a timeless testament to George Michael’s artistic evolution and enduring relevance. Its themes of authenticity and breaking free from constraints resonate with listeners across generations, solidifying its place as a defining moment in Michael’s illustrious career and in the broader landscape of pop music.
7. Praying for Time
“Praying for Time,” released in 1990 from George Michael’s album “Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1,” is a poignant and introspective ballad that reflects on social issues and the human condition. The song’s contemplative lyrics delve into themes of inequality, injustice, and the fleeting nature of time, offering a somber reflection on the state of the world.
Musically, “Praying for Time” features a minimalist arrangement centered around Michael’s soulful vocals and a piano-driven melody. Its restrained instrumentation allows the powerful message of the lyrics to take center stage, evoking a sense of introspection and empathy.
The song received critical acclaim for its mature songwriting and profound lyrical content, showcasing George Michael’s ability to address complex themes with sincerity and depth. “Praying for Time” resonated with listeners for its universal message and timeless relevance, earning praise for its emotional impact and social commentary.
As a departure from his earlier pop hits, “Praying for Time” established George Michael as a thoughtful and introspective artist, further expanding his musical legacy. Its enduring popularity and continued significance highlight its importance as a standout track in Michael’s career and as a poignant reflection on the challenges of the modern world.
8. Jesus to a Child
“Jesus to a Child,” released in 1996, is a deeply personal and emotionally resonant ballad by George Michael. The song, featured on his album “Older,” is a tribute to a lost love and reflects on themes of love, loss, and healing. Lyrically, “Jesus to a Child” is poetic and introspective, expressing profound emotions with its heartfelt lyrics and evocative imagery.
Musically, the song is characterized by its lush orchestration, gentle piano melodies, and Michael’s soulful vocals. The arrangement creates a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere that enhances the song’s emotional depth and sincerity.
“Jesus to a Child” received critical acclaim for its mature songwriting and Michael’s poignant vocal performance. It became a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries, and remains one of George Michael’s most beloved and enduring songs.
The song’s introspective nature and autobiographical elements further endeared it to fans, highlighting Michael’s ability to connect on a deeply personal level through his music. “Jesus to a Child” stands as a testament to George Michael’s artistic growth and emotional authenticity, solidifying its place as a timeless classic in his discography and in the hearts of listeners worldwide.
9. Outside
“Outside,” released in 1998, is a lively and satirical dance-pop song by George Michael. Known for its upbeat tempo, infectious groove, and playful lyrics, the song became a celebration of freedom, self-expression, and overcoming adversity.
Lyrically, “Outside” cheekily addresses Michael’s own controversial public incident and the themes of privacy, identity, and societal norms. The song’s upbeat rhythm, funky guitar riffs, and catchy chorus contributed to its popularity and appeal as a dance anthem.
The music video for “Outside” further emphasized its playful nature, featuring Michael and dancers in flamboyant outfits, colorful settings, and tongue-in-cheek references to the incident that inspired the song. Directed by Vaughan Arnell, the video added to its cultural impact and solidified its status as a memorable moment in pop music.
Critically acclaimed and commercially successful, “Outside” showcased George Michael’s wit and musical versatility, marking a return to the spotlight with his trademark blend of pop sensibilities and social commentary. The song remains a fan favorite and a testament to Michael’s ability to navigate personal challenges through his artistry while delivering a message of resilience and joy.
10. Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me (with Elton John)
“Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me,” a duet between George Michael and Elton John, was released in 1991 as a live recording from a concert at Wembley Arena. Originally a hit for Elton John in 1974, this rendition became a powerful collaboration between two iconic musicians.
The song is a heartfelt ballad expressing vulnerability and longing, with both Michael and John delivering impassioned vocal performances that complement each other perfectly. Their harmonies and emotional depth add layers of intensity to the song, making it a standout moment in both artists’ careers.
The live recording’s raw energy and genuine emotion resonate deeply with listeners, capturing the essence of a live concert experience. “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” became a chart-topping success, showcasing the enduring appeal of the song and the undeniable chemistry between Michael and John on stage.
Beyond its commercial success, the duet has been praised for its vocal prowess and emotional resonance, cementing its place as a classic in the pop music canon. The collaboration remains a testament to the mutual admiration and friendship between George Michael and Elton John, leaving a lasting legacy in music history.
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.
