George Michael was more than just a pop icon—he was a musical pioneer who shaped the sound of the ’80s and ’90s with his unforgettable voice, daring creativity, and undeniable charisma. Whether as one-half of the dynamic duo Wham! or as a solo artist, George Michael’s songs have transcended generations, delivering infectious melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and electrifying beats that continue to captivate listeners worldwide. From chart-topping anthems to soulful ballads, his music has touched on themes of love, freedom, heartache, and self-expression, earning him a permanent place in the pantheon of pop greats. In this article, we’re diving into the top 10 most popular George Michael songs of all time—a collection of tracks that not only defined his remarkable career but also left an indelible mark on popular culture. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering his genius, these songs are sure to remind you of why George Michael remains one of the most beloved and influential artists in music history. So turn up the volume, get ready to sing along, and let’s celebrate the timeless legacy of a true legend!
1. Careless Whisper (1984)
“Careless Whisper” is undoubtedly one of George Michael’s most iconic and unforgettable songs. Released in 1984, this timeless ballad became a global sensation and remains a cornerstone of his musical legacy. Co-written with his Wham! bandmate, Andrew Ridgeley, the song immediately captured hearts worldwide with its iconic saxophone riff, which has since become one of the most recognizable melodies in pop music history. The lyrics tell a story of deep regret and remorse, as the protagonist wrestles with guilt over infidelity, making “Careless Whisper” a haunting tale of love, betrayal, and heartache. Michael’s powerful, emotive vocals, paired with the lush production, made the track a chart-topping success in over 25 countries. Its universal themes of love and loss, combined with its seductive melody, secured Michael’s place as a serious artist, capable of writing both deeply personal and universally relatable songs. Decades later, “Careless Whisper” continues to resonate with listeners, solidifying its place in pop culture as an enduring, soulful anthem that has stood the test of time.
2. Faith (1987)
Released in 1987, “Faith” was the title track of George Michael’s debut solo album and remains one of his most defining hits. With its infectious rockabilly rhythm and slick guitar riff, “Faith” marked a bold departure from Michael’s Wham! days, signaling his rise as a confident solo artist. The track seamlessly blends pop, rock, and dance influences, creating a sound that felt fresh and exciting in the late ‘80s. Lyrically, “Faith” is an anthem of resilience and independence, with Michael singing about moving forward after heartbreak and refusing to look back. His swaggering vocal performance, coupled with the iconic music video—featuring him in a leather jacket, aviator sunglasses, and leaning coolly against a jukebox—cemented his image as a pop superstar. The song dominated the charts, staying at number one in the U.S. for four weeks and becoming one of the biggest hits of 1988. Its timeless energy and catchy appeal have made “Faith” a fan favorite for generations, representing Michael’s artistic evolution and lasting legacy in the world of pop music.
3. Freedom! ’90 (1990)
“Freedom! ’90” wasn’t just a hit—it was George Michael’s declaration of artistic freedom. Released in 1990 from his second solo album Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1, the song stands as a pivotal moment in Michael’s career. Frustrated with his pop-star image and the pressures of fame, Michael used this track to express his desire to break free from the constraints of the music industry. With its funky groove, introspective lyrics, and powerful vocal delivery, “Freedom! ’90” is an anthem of defiance and liberation. Michael’s lyrics reflect his struggle to escape being pigeonholed as a sex symbol following the enormous success of Faith. The song’s iconic music video, which featured supermodels instead of the singer himself, underscored his rejection of image-driven stardom. Musically and thematically, “Freedom! ’90” showcased Michael’s evolution as an artist, one who was unafraid to take risks and speak his truth. It remains a testament to his desire for authenticity and artistic independence, earning its place as one of the most significant songs in his catalog.
4. Father Figure (1987)
“Father Figure,” released in December 1987, is one of George Michael’s most evocative and emotional songs. Featured on his Faith album, this haunting ballad delves into themes of love, devotion, and emotional complexity. The song’s hypnotic rhythm and atmospheric production create an intimate, almost spiritual tone, pulling listeners into a world of longing and vulnerability. Michael’s raw vocal performance is mesmerizing, conveying a deep emotional intensity that lingers throughout the track. A marked departure from the upbeat pop hits that had initially defined his career, “Father Figure” demonstrated Michael’s versatility as a songwriter and performer. The cryptic and sensual lyrics add a layer of mystique to the song, leaving much to interpretation, which only enhances its allure. The track was a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S., further cementing Michael’s reputation as an artist capable of delivering emotionally rich, sophisticated pop music. “Father Figure” remains one of his most cherished songs, loved for its depth and emotional resonance.
5. Last Christmas (1984)
“Last Christmas” has become much more than just another holiday song—it’s a festive anthem that has stood the test of time since its release in December 1984. Written and produced by George Michael for Wham!, the song tells the bittersweet story of unrequited love and heartbreak, all set against the backdrop of the holiday season. Its catchy melody, shimmering production, and heartache-laden lyrics create a perfect balance between melancholy and holiday cheer. The track’s synth-driven sound is quintessentially ’80s, yet its appeal has transcended generations. Although it didn’t reach number one in the UK upon its release, “Last Christmas” has only grown in popularity over the years, eventually becoming one of the best-selling Christmas songs of all time. The song’s universal themes of love, loss, and hope, combined with its infectious melody, continue to resonate with listeners during the holiday season. Whether you’re celebrating with loved ones or reminiscing about past heartbreaks, “Last Christmas” is the perfect seasonal soundtrack, year after year.
6. One More Try (1988)
Released in April 1988, “One More Try” is one of George Michael’s most powerful and emotionally charged ballads. Taken from his debut solo album Faith, the song is a slow, soulful exploration of vulnerability and heartbreak. The lyrics tell the story of someone who has been hurt in love and is reluctant to open their heart again, pleading for a second chance while wrestling with feelings of fear and hesitation. Michael’s vocal performance is raw and deeply expressive, capturing every nuance of pain and longing. The minimalist arrangement, centered around a delicate keyboard melody, allows Michael’s voice to take center stage, giving the song an intimate and introspective quality. “One More Try” became a massive hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S. Its emotional depth and simplicity have made it one of Michael’s most beloved ballads, a testament to his ability to turn personal experiences into universally relatable songs.
7. Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go (1984)
“Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go,” released in May 1984, is the quintessential feel-good anthem from George Michael’s Wham! days. The song’s bouncy melody, bright production, and infectious energy made it an instant classic. Co-written by Michael and inspired by a playful note left by bandmate Andrew Ridgeley, the track captures the carefree and joyful spirit of the 1980s. The catchy chorus and upbeat tempo quickly made it a fan favorite, with listeners around the world unable to resist singing along. The colorful, fun-filled music video, featuring Michael and Ridgeley in “CHOOSE LIFE” t-shirts, became iconic, perfectly complementing the song’s lighthearted vibe. “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” topped the charts in multiple countries and became one of Wham!’s biggest hits. Decades later, it remains a beloved pop anthem, bringing smiles to faces and evoking memories of the exuberance and fun of ‘80s pop culture.
8. I Want Your Sex (1987)
Released in June 1987 as the lead single from George Michael’s Faith album, “I Want Your Sex” was a bold and provocative track that stirred controversy with its explicit lyrics and sensual groove. The song’s message, which Michael described as being about monogamy and the importance of sex within committed relationships, sparked debates, with some radio stations banning it. However, Michael remained unapologetic, defending the song’s positive message about love and intimacy. Musically, “I Want Your Sex” blends funk, R&B, and pop, creating an irresistible beat underscored by a sultry saxophone riff. Despite the controversy, the song was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in multiple countries. Its provocative lyrics and Michael’s confident performance marked a turning point in his career, as he embraced a more mature and daring persona. “I Want Your Sex” remains a defining track of the late ’80s, reflecting Michael’s evolution as an artist unafraid to challenge societal norms.
9. Jesus to a Child (1996)
Released in January 1996, “Jesus to a Child” is one of George Michael’s most personal and emotionally resonant songs. Written in tribute to his late partner, Anselmo Feleppa, who passed away in 1993, the ballad reflects Michael’s grief and longing in the wake of this profound loss. The song’s haunting, melancholic melody, combined with its sparse and atmospheric production, creates an emotional landscape that is both beautiful and heartbreaking. Michael’s vocal performance is filled with raw vulnerability, as he sings of unconditional love and the pain of losing someone dear. “Jesus to a Child” marked a departure from the upbeat pop songs that had defined much of his earlier career, showcasing a more introspective and mature side of the artist. The song was a commercial success, reaching number one in the UK and other countries, and it remains one of his most poignant and beloved works. Its emotional honesty and depth make “Jesus to a Child” a powerful testament to Michael’s ability to channel personal loss into timeless music.
10. Too Funky (1992)
“Too Funky,” released in May 1992 as part of the Red Hot + Dance compilation, is one of George Michael’s most energetic and fun songs. A funky dance track with infectious energy, it stands out for its catchy rhythm, bold brass section, and sassy lyrics. The song’s upbeat tempo and lively production make it a dance-floor favorite, showcasing Michael’s flair for blending pop with funk and R&B influences. While it may not carry the emotional depth of some of his ballads, “Too Funky” is a playful, feel-good track that highlights Michael’s versatility as a pop artist. The music video, featuring high-fashion supermodels and over-the-top outfits, became iconic in its own right, adding to the song’s glamorous appeal. “Too Funky” was a hit in Europe, particularly in the UK, and remains a fan favorite, embodying the fun and flamboyance that characterized much of Michael’s early ‘90s output.
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.
