George Michael was more than just a pop star—he was a musical icon whose voice, songwriting, and charisma defined a generation. From his early days in Wham! to his groundbreaking solo career, Michael’s ability to blend infectious pop melodies with deeply personal lyrics won him a lasting place in the hearts of fans around the world. Whether it was a soulful ballad that tugged at your heartstrings or an upbeat anthem that made you want to dance, George Michael’s music had a way of connecting with listeners in a profound way. With a catalog brimming with chart-toppers, choosing his most popular songs is no easy task. However, a few timeless tracks have stood the test of time, continuing to resonate with new audiences and long-time fans alike. In this article, we’ll take a journey through the top 10 most popular George Michael songs of all time—tracks that not only dominated the charts but also left an indelible mark on pop culture. From unforgettable saxophone solos to bold declarations of independence, these songs capture the essence of a career that was both groundbreaking and unforgettable. So, sit back, press play, and get ready to dive into the musical legacy of George Michael!
1. Careless Whisper (1984)
“Careless Whisper” is undoubtedly one of George Michael’s most iconic songs, released in 1984 as part of Wham!’s Make It Big album. This smooth, sultry ballad is instantly recognizable by its unforgettable saxophone riff, which has since become a hallmark of 80s music. Co-written with his Wham! partner Andrew Ridgeley, Michael himself considered it a personal favorite, reflecting on love, betrayal, and regret. The song explores the emotional aftermath of infidelity, with Michael’s soulful vocals perfectly capturing the torment of lost love. It topped the charts worldwide, including in the UK and the US, and remains a timeless anthem, demonstrating Michael’s exceptional songwriting and vocal talents.
2. Faith (1987)
Released in 1987, “Faith” became the anthem that launched George Michael as a solo superstar. The title track of his debut solo album, it showcases a perfect blend of rock, pop, and dance elements, driven by an irresistible guitar riff and a foot-tapping rhythm. The song’s playful lyrics express a confident and cheeky desire for romantic independence. “Faith” dominated the charts, hitting the number one spot in the US and several other countries. With its bold sound and stylish music video featuring Michael in his now-iconic leather jacket and aviator glasses, “Faith” became a symbol of late 80s pop culture and one of Michael’s most enduring hits.
3. Father Figure (1987)
“Father Figure,” released in 1987, is one of George Michael’s most hauntingly beautiful songs. A slow-burning blend of pop and soul, it explores themes of protection, love, and longing, with Michael’s tender and emotive delivery giving the track an almost spiritual depth. The song’s minimalist production, with its subtle drums and atmospheric keyboards, allows Michael’s voice to take center stage. The lyrics are ambiguous, leaving listeners to interpret the complex relationship at the heart of the song. “Father Figure” became a top 10 hit in multiple countries, including the US, where it reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100, solidifying Michael’s reputation as a master of emotional ballads.
4. Freedom! ’90 (1990)
“Freedom! ’90” is a defiant anthem of self-liberation, released in 1990 from the Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1 album. In this song, George Michael boldly addresses his struggle with fame and his desire to break free from his 80s pop star persona. The infectious piano-driven beat and Michael’s impassioned vocals make “Freedom! ’90” a powerful statement of independence, both personally and artistically. The music video, which famously features supermodels lip-syncing the lyrics, became iconic in its own right and helped cement the song’s status as a cultural milestone. It didn’t chart as high as some of his other hits but grew into one of his most beloved and influential tracks over time.
5. One More Try (1988)
“One More Try,” released in 1988, reveals George Michael’s vulnerability as he sings about the fear of opening up to love after being hurt. The song is a soul-infused ballad from his Faith album, where Michael’s voice is given room to soar over a sparse backing of keyboards and subtle percussion. Its gospel-like atmosphere enhances the emotional weight of the lyrics, as Michael pleads for reassurance and understanding before he gives “one more try” at love. The song topped the US Billboard Hot 100 and became a hit internationally, further showcasing Michael’s ability to deliver deeply personal, heartfelt performances.
6. Last Christmas (1984)
“Last Christmas” was released by Wham! in 1984 and has since become a holiday classic around the world. This festive pop song, with its upbeat melody and bittersweet lyrics, tells the story of unrequited love during the Christmas season. While the music is joyful, Michael’s lyrics reveal the pain of being let down by a lover from the previous year. “Last Christmas” has enjoyed enduring popularity, climbing the charts each holiday season and becoming one of the UK’s best-selling singles of all time. Its catchy synth-driven production and timeless message of heartache set against the backdrop of the holidays have made it a winter staple.
7. Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me (1991)
“Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” was originally released by Elton John in 1974, but it was the 1991 live duet between Elton John and George Michael that brought new life to the song. Recorded during a live performance in London, this version became a massive hit, topping the charts in both the US and the UK. Michael’s powerful, emotional delivery perfectly complements John’s original composition, creating a magical collaboration that resonated with audiences worldwide. The song combines both artists’ vocal strengths and remains a highlight of each of their careers, showing Michael’s reverence for his musical idols while also cementing his legacy as a powerhouse performer.
8. I Want Your Sex (1987)
Released in 1987 as the first single from Faith, “I Want Your Sex” was one of George Michael’s most controversial tracks. Boldly addressing the subject of monogamous sexual desire, the song pushed boundaries in an era when such topics were often considered taboo in mainstream pop music. The track’s funky beats, energetic horns, and seductive lyrics created a provocative anthem that stirred debates, with some radio stations even banning it at the time. Despite the controversy, or perhaps because of it, “I Want Your Sex” became a major hit, peaking in the top 10 on charts around the world. Michael defended the song as a celebration of love and intimacy, challenging societal norms.
9. Praying for Time (1990)
“Praying for Time,” released in 1990, marks a dramatic shift in George Michael’s songwriting, as it addresses social and political issues with a somber tone. The lead single from Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1, it presents a stark commentary on inequality, poverty, and the state of the world. The song’s stripped-back production, with a focus on Michael’s vocals and contemplative lyrics, reflects the seriousness of its themes. It became a number one hit in the US and was praised for its depth and maturity, showing Michael’s growth as an artist willing to tackle larger, more complex subjects beyond love and relationships.
10. Jesus to a Child (1996)
“Jesus to a Child,” released in 1996, is one of George Michael’s most personal and poignant songs, written in memory of his late partner, Anselmo Feleppa. The song is a slow, melancholic ballad that reflects on loss, grief, and the search for peace. With its lush strings and gentle rhythm, the track is both heartbreaking and beautiful, showcasing Michael’s ability to channel deep emotion into his music. It became a number one hit in the UK and was widely praised for its sincerity and emotional depth. “Jesus to a Child” marked Michael’s return to the charts after a period of personal hardship, and it stands as one of his most moving contributions to music.
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.
