10 Best George Michael Songs of All Time

George Michael was one of the most iconic and influential pop musicians of the 20th century. With a career spanning over three decades, he produced numerous hits that have become timeless classics. From his early days with Wham! to his successful solo career, Michael captivated audiences with his soulful voice and unique songwriting style. His music continues to inspire and influence artists around the world.

In this article, we will explore the top 10 best George Michael songs of all time. We will take a journey through his extensive discography and highlight the songs that have made the biggest impact on his career and the music industry as a whole. From the upbeat pop hits to the emotional ballads, we will showcase the songs that have captured the hearts of fans and critics alike. George Michael’s music has become a symbol of the 1980s and 1990s pop culture, and his legacy continues to endure even after his passing in 2016. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride as we celebrate the life and career of one of the greatest pop musicians of all time through the top 10 best George Michael songs of all time.

1. A Different Corner

This particular melody is a beautiful masterpiece rendered by the singer George Michael. The rhythmic yet soulful tune has been listed as one of the top songs away from the mainstream pop genre. The lyrics are enticing with an overall romantic vibe that touches people's hearts, and inspires them to believe in love once again. The song takes listeners on a journey depicting Michael's loneliness and how he craved for a partner who would understand him.

Undoubtedly this song showcases George Michael's exceptional musical talent and his ability to evoke emotions through his voice. This gem provided a refreshing break to listeners who were used to fast-paced entertaining music during that era. Its composition kicked off the trend of slower, emotionally intense sounds infused with soulful rhythms. And those qualities attract more fans towards this iconic piece.

This 80s ballad differs from George Michael's typical style which often propelled heavy nuance around the subjects of love and desires, but "A Different Corner" offers pure unadulterated sentimentality. It tells a story about the unknown dread involved in forming new relationships and finding someone who complements our souls perfectly- much like treasure found in an unexpected place.

History suggests 'A Different Corner' was written after Wham! disbanded, while Michael wrestled with matters surrounding himself and Andrew Ridgeley being together as an immensely successful duo for so many years before parting ways amicably eventually. This song propelled him back into his creative headspace as he planned for his upcoming album "Faith."

You know it's weird when George Michael's lyrics make more sense than your own love life.

2. The Strangest Thing

George Michael's 'The Strangest Thing' is a soulful ballad that explores complex human emotions with an expressive melody. The song resonates with listeners by addressing the difficulties of letting go of a person you love, even though you know it is the right thing to do. The lyrics bring out the raw and vulnerable side of George Michael as he croons about his heartache.

'The Strangest Thing' was not initially a hit but found its audience after being reworked for a single release in 1997. The music video was also critically acclaimed for its stunning visuals and intimate portrayal of George Michael's emotions.

In addition to its meaningful lyrics, the song's instrumentation adds to its emotional impact, featuring gentle guitar strumming and soft piano notes that complement George Michael's soulful voice beautifully.

While many may have overlooked 'The Strangest Thing' upon its initial release, the song has since cemented itself as one of George Michael's greatest hits and a testament to his talent as a songwriter and musician.

It is said that 'The Strangest Thing' was inspired by George Michael's real-life experiences with unrequited love, adding another layer of authenticity to this already emotional track.

George Michael's 'You Have Been Loved' will make you feel all the emotions, from love to heartbreak, in just under five minutes.

3. You Have Been Loved

This haunting love ballad, penned by George Michael himself, features on his 1996 album 'Older'. The melancholic lyrics and powerful vocals depict the pain of losing a loved one. The song showcases Michael's emotional range and his ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level. It's clear that this track is close to his heart as he rarely performed it live. The sparse instrumentation adds to the overall sadness of the song, making it one of his most moving pieces.

George Michael proves that you can never be too funky, and his song 'Too Funky' is the ultimate groove-filled testament to that.

4. Too Funky

This song, originally featured in the soundtrack of the fashion documentary "Paris Is Burning", is one of George Michael's most energetic and experimental tracks. With a mix of funk and disco vibes, "Too Funky" showcases his versatility as an artist and ability to create unique sounds. The music video, directed by fashion icon Thierry Mugler, also adds to the song's appeal with its extravagant costumes and runway-inspired scenes.

It's no surprise that "Too Funky" was a hit with both fans and critics alike. Released in 1992, it reached the top 10 in several countries and solidified George Michael's status as a pop superstar. The song's infectious beat and catchy chorus make it a timeless classic that can still get people on their feet today.

One interesting fact about "Too Funky" is that it features backing vocals from none other than the legendary Funk Queen herself, Jocelyn Brown. Her powerful voice adds even more energy to the already high-energy track.

Pro Tip: If you're looking for something fun to dance to or need a pick-me-up, add "Too Funky" to your playlist for an instant boost of energy.

Fastlove ain't just a song, it's a lifestyle choice for those who like their love affairs as thrilling and fleeting as a summer fling.

5. Fastlove

This entry on our list explores George Michael's hit called 'Fastlove'. The song was released in 1996 and became one of his most popular songs. It is a dance-pop track with energetic beats that compel the listener to get up and groove. Its lyrics depict Michael's desire for physical pleasure without commitment. Through this track, he gives a nod to hedonistic behaviour while also acknowledging its consequences. Its slick production and catchy hooks make it an evergreen party anthem.

One fascinating fact about 'Fastlove' is that it was written, produced, and arranged by George Michael himself. It features samples from Patrice Rushen's hits 'Forget Me Nots' and 'Feels So Real (Won't Let Go)'. The song was so iconic that it earned George Michael a nomination for Best British Male Solo Artist at the BRIT Awards.

This high-energy dance tune serves as an excellent addition to any workout or party playlist. Its pulsating beats and irresistible chorus are bound to lift spirits, making it an all-time favourite for fans worldwide. If you're looking for a musical journey filled with pure upbeat vibes, then 'Fastlove' is the perfect stop on our list of George Michael's best songs!

Praying For Time is the kind of song that makes you want to reflect on life…or just cry in the shower.

6. Praying For Time

George Michael's hit song, popularized in the 1990s as "Praying For Time," is a soulful ballad that challenges society's beliefs and encourages introspection. The song alludes to environmental degradation, corruption, poverty, and other global issues requiring collective action rather than prayer alone to resolve.

"Praying For Time" highlights George Michael's political consciousness and his innate ability to use music as a platform for inspiring change while entertaining audiences. Written during a time of political unrest and moral ambiguity, the song's message remains relevant today.

George Michael's creative genius shone through in "Praying For Time", beginning with its haunting piano melody leading to emotive lyrics seamlessly transitioning between despair and hope. The music video also featured footage from the Gulf War and environmental disasters globally.

George Michael strived for authenticity in his artistry; perhaps why he penned this masterpiece solo instead of co-writing it. Throughout his lifetime, he continued using his music platform to raise awareness on societal ills unwittingly contributing positively to social change.

Careless Whisper: the song you play when you want to slow-dance with someone, but also make them feel like they're in a dramatic 80s music video.

7. Careless Whisper

This classic tune by the late George Michael, known through its signature saxophone intro, is arguably one of his most popular songs to date. The opening bars of "7. Careless Whisper" send listeners into a nostalgic reverie characterized by lost love and heartbreak. The slow tempo and Michael's emotional vocals perfectly complement the wistful lyrics that describe the painful aftermath of a failed relationship. Initially released in 1984 on Wham!'s Make It Big album, the timeless classic remains an emblematic masterpiece that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.

In addition to its unforgettable melody and unforgettable saxophone notes, "7. Careless Whisper" exemplifies Michael's music style: a unique blend of pop ballads, soulful rhythms, and poignant storytelling. The song reflects Michael's ability to connect with his audience on an emotional level while still keeping things fun and catchy.

For enthusiasts who are yet unfamiliar with this iconic track or those looking for new ways to indulge in their old favorite, it is worth noting that several soul versions have also been created over time by various artists such as Seether.

Experience the stirring performance of "7. Careless Whisper" today – it remains essential for all die-hard George Michael fans and anyone else who enjoys soulful ballads with mellow beats that touch the heartstrings!

When it comes to George Michael's 'Faith', you don't need to pray – just press play and let the groove take over.

8. Faith

George Michael's hit single 'Faith' was a revolutionary song that took the world by storm. It became one of his most iconic songs and garnered much attention due to its catchy tune and memorable lyrics. The upbeat tempo of the song coupled with George Michael's electrifying performance kept fans hooked from start to finish.

The song was written after he departed from the pop duet Wham! as a solo artist, signifying a new beginning for him. 'Faith' put George Michael on the map as a solo artist and surpassed all previous expectations. The mix of rock, pop, and funk in the song added to its versatility, highlighting George Michael's musical ability.

Interestingly, some critics consider 'Faith' as a declaration of faith towards love rather than religion – a notion that is still debated among fans.

Overall, 'Faith' remains one of George Michael's greatest works and will always be remembered as an iconic symbol of his legacy.

George Michael's not a fan of canines – 'Shoot The Dog' proves he's definitely more of a cat person.

9. Shoot The Dog

This George Michael track is a satirical commentary on politics and society. With its catchy beats and witty lyrics, "The Canine Termination" criticizes western democracies' engagement with the Middle East conflict and addresses issues like the corruption of media organizations. The song's music video was also controversial, featuring cartoonified versions of Tony Blair and George W. Bush. Despite criticism from some corners of the political world, the song went on to become one of Michael's most iconic works.

Continuing with this theme of political critique, "Shoot The Dog" is a hard-hitting but tongue-in-cheek pop tune that satirizes politicians' attitudes towards the War on Terror and US foreign policy in general. Complete with barking sounds and a video that features animated versions of Blair and Osama bin Laden, "Shoot The Dog" is a memorable addition to Michael's catalogue.

While not as commercially successful as some of his other works, "Shoot The Dog" cemented Michael's status as an artist who wasn't afraid to speak up about important issues affecting society. With its upbeat rhythms juxtaposed against clever verses that tackle complex political themes, "Shoot The Dog" is a unique entry in Michael's discography that deserves recognition for its boldness and creativity.

For those interested in exploring more politically charged tunes by George Michael, we recommend digging into tracks like "Freedom! '90", which explores themes like personal liberation and artistic integrity while still maintaining a breezy pop sound. Additionally, songs like "Praying For Time", which tackles issues like poverty and social inequality head-on with heartfelt melodies and poignant lyrics, offer listeners deeper insights into Michael's creative vision.

George Michael's 'Freeek' reminds us that even the king of pop can get a little freaky sometimes.

10. Freeek

This track showcases Michael's unconventional foray into electronica dance music, with an infectious beat and catchy hook that is nothing short of addictive. The clever wordplay coupled with his persuasive voice makes it one of the most memorable numbers of his repertoire, earning its place on this list.

'Freeek' moved away from his usual ballads to present an edgier sound that not only appealed to younger generations but also showcased his musicianship skills. With a pulsating rhythm and explicit lyrics that steer away from his usual fare, this track exemplifies how he was never afraid to push the boundaries creatively.

What sets 'Freeek' apart from others on this list is its ability to be relevant even today. Released in 2002, it still manages to hold up against recent pop songs in terms of production quality and genre-bending experimentation. Its success can be attributed to George Michael's aptitude for combining unconventional sounds and traditional melodies seamlessly.

After parting from Sony Music in 1995, Michael formed Aegean Records, where he produced and released 'Freeek' with the intent of rebranding himself as a modern musician. With this track, he set out to prove his relevance in a rapidly changing industry and redefine himself creatively after years of critical acclaim.