Few artists have left as indelible a mark on pop music as George Michael. From his early days as one-half of the chart-topping duo Wham! to his celebrated solo career, Michael’s blend of infectious melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and genre-defying sound has captivated audiences for decades. His ability to seamlessly transition between upbeat pop anthems and soulful ballads made him a global icon, while his bold persona and unwavering authenticity cemented his legacy as one of the most influential figures in music history.
With a career spanning more than three decades, George Michael gifted us with some of the most unforgettable songs of the 80s, 90s, and beyond. Whether he was making us dance with electrifying beats or touching our hearts with deeply personal lyrics, his music has stood the test of time and continues to resonate with new generations of fans. In this article, we’ll take a nostalgic journey through the top 10 most popular George Michael songs of all time—from timeless classics to beloved fan favorites. These tracks represent the very best of his unparalleled talent and serve as a reminder of why George Michael remains a true legend in the world of music.
1. “Careless Whisper” (1984)
Released in 1984, “Careless Whisper” was George Michael’s first solo single, and it’s often considered his magnum opus. The sultry saxophone riff, crafted by Steve Gregory, has become one of the most recognizable in music history. Co-written with his Wham! partner Andrew Ridgeley, the song explores themes of regret and betrayal over a love affair gone wrong. Michael’s velvety vocals glide effortlessly over the smooth, jazz-influenced instrumental, giving the song a timeless allure. The emotional depth and vulnerability conveyed in the lyrics resonated universally, making it a global chart-topper. It’s a song that, decades later, still evokes nostalgia and remains a staple of 1980s pop.
2. “Faith” (1987)
Released in 1987 as the lead single from his debut solo album of the same name, “Faith” solidified George Michael’s status as a pop icon. With its infectious rockabilly beat, driven by a simple yet effective guitar riff, the song was a stylistic shift that showcased Michael’s versatility. Its upbeat rhythm, combined with cheeky lyrics about desire and self-confidence, made it an instant chart sensation. The accompanying music video, featuring Michael in a leather jacket and sunglasses, became iconic, further cementing his status as a sex symbol. “Faith” topped the charts in multiple countries, including the U.S., where it became one of the best-selling singles of the year.
3. “Last Christmas” (1984)
A Christmas classic from Wham!, “Last Christmas” was released in December 1984 and has since become a holiday anthem. Despite its upbeat, festive melody, the song tells a bittersweet story of unrequited love and heartbreak. George Michael’s heartfelt delivery, paired with the sparkling production, gives the track a unique blend of melancholy and warmth that keeps it relevant year after year. The song’s longevity is remarkable—each holiday season, “Last Christmas” re-enters charts worldwide, proving its timeless appeal. Whether it’s the catchy chorus or the nostalgic lyrics, it’s a song that embodies the emotional complexity of the holiday season.
4. “Freedom! ’90” (1990)
“Freedom! ’90” is more than just a pop hit—it’s a declaration of independence. Released in 1990 from his Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1 album, the song marked George Michael’s break from the constraints of his earlier image. Musically, it’s a funky, upbeat anthem, but lyrically, it’s a rebellion against the commercial pressures of fame. The song’s refusal to conform was symbolized in its iconic music video, where Michael famously chose not to appear; instead, supermodels lip-synched the lyrics, reinforcing the message of stepping away from the spotlight. It’s a liberating anthem about reclaiming personal freedom, and its message still resonates with audiences today.
5. “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” (1984)
Released in 1984, “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” is pure, unadulterated pop joy. As one of Wham!’s biggest hits, this track is a vibrant explosion of energy, with its infectious beat, bright melodies, and upbeat lyrics. Written by George Michael, the song captures the exuberance of youthful love, with its playful chorus and bouncy rhythm. It’s impossible to hear this song and not feel a sense of happiness—its blend of Motown-inspired rhythms and 80s pop sensibilities made it a global smash. The accompanying music video, with its neon colors and carefree dancing, perfectly encapsulated the fun, carefree spirit of the song.
6. “Father Figure” (1988)
“Father Figure”, released in 1988 as the third single from Faith, is a hauntingly sensual ballad that showcases George Michael’s ability to convey deep emotion. The song’s slow, sultry groove is a departure from the upbeat pop hits he was known for, offering a more mature and introspective side. Lyrically, the song is enigmatic, touching on themes of love, trust, and protection, with Michael’s soulful voice adding layers of complexity. The atmospheric production, featuring warm synths and subtle percussion, creates a dreamlike quality that draws listeners in. “Father Figure” became one of Michael’s most beloved tracks, showing the depth of his artistry.
7. “One More Try” (1988)
Released in 1988, “One More Try” is an emotional powerhouse from George Michael’s Faith album. This soulful ballad, clocking in at over five minutes, is a slow burn of heartache and vulnerability. Michael’s vocals are raw and impassioned, as he sings about the fear of opening oneself up to love after being hurt. The song’s gospel influences, punctuated by its haunting organ melody, give it a spiritual depth that resonates on a profound level. “One More Try” topped the U.S. charts and remains one of Michael’s most moving performances, a testament to his ability to connect with listeners on a deeply emotional level.
8. “I Want Your Sex” (1987)
“I Want Your Sex”, released in 1987, was one of George Michael’s most controversial and provocative songs. As the first single from his Faith album, the track generated significant buzz due to its bold lyrics and unapologetic celebration of physical desire. At a time when discussions around sexuality were often taboo, Michael pushed boundaries, challenging societal norms. Musically, the song is a funky, upbeat anthem with a driving rhythm and catchy hooks. Despite initial radio censorship, it became a major hit, reaching the top 10 in several countries. “I Want Your Sex” marked a pivotal moment in Michael’s career, where he embraced a more daring and mature artistic persona.
9. “Jesus to a Child” (1996)
Released in 1996, “Jesus to a Child” is one of George Michael’s most poignant and personal songs. Written as a tribute to his partner Anselmo Feleppa, who had passed away, the song is a beautiful meditation on love, loss, and grief. The slow, haunting melody, coupled with Michael’s tender and heartfelt vocals, creates an atmosphere of deep sorrow and reflection. Unlike many of his pop hits, this song eschews catchy hooks for a more introspective and emotional narrative. “Jesus to a Child” topped the UK charts and remains a testament to Michael’s ability to write deeply personal music that resonates with universal themes of love and loss.
10. “Too Funky” (1992)
“Too Funky”, released in 1992, is a high-energy track that showcases George Michael’s flair for creating irresistible dance music. Originally recorded for the Red Hot + Dance compilation, the song’s funky beats and catchy chorus made it an instant club favorite. The track’s vibrant production, driven by a punchy bassline and infectious groove, is pure fun. Lyrically, the song is playful and flirtatious, with Michael delivering his lines with a knowing wink. The music video, featuring glamorous supermodels in avant-garde fashion, became iconic in its own right, perfectly complementing the track’s bold and stylish vibe. “Too Funky” is a testament to Michael’s ability to dominate the dance floor while still maintaining his artistic integrity.
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.
