Few artists in music history have left as indelible a mark as George Michael. A true icon of pop, soul, and R&B, Michael’s career was a masterclass in evolution—spanning from his infectious, feel-good hits with Wham! to the deeply personal and introspective ballads of his solo years. With his unmistakable voice, magnetic stage presence, and fearless approach to songwriting, George Michael captured the hearts of millions and became a defining figure of the 1980s and 1990s music scene. His songs didn’t just dominate charts—they became the soundtrack of a generation, exploring themes of love, heartbreak, freedom, and self-discovery with unparalleled emotional depth and artistry.
In this list, we celebrate the top 10 most popular George Michael songs of all time, each a testament to his extraordinary talent and timeless appeal. From dancefloor anthems to soulful ballads, these tracks showcase the versatility and brilliance that made Michael one of the greatest artists of all time. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a newcomer to his music, these songs will remind you why his legacy endures, years after his untimely passing. So, turn up the volume, and let’s dive into the unforgettable music of George Michael—the voice, the legend, the icon.
1. Careless Whisper (1984)
Few songs are as instantly recognizable as “Careless Whisper,” with its sultry saxophone opening that sets the tone for one of pop music’s most iconic ballads. Released in 1984 as part of Wham!’s Make It Big album, the track also marked George Michael’s first foray into his solo career. A haunting tale of guilt and infidelity, Michael’s soulful vocals capture the heartbreak and regret of the song’s protagonist. The smooth jazz influences and emotional depth make it a timeless masterpiece, resonating across generations. Charting at No. 1 in over 25 countries, “Careless Whisper” remains a defining moment in George Michael’s illustrious career.
2. Faith (1987)
Released in 1987, “Faith” was the title track of George Michael’s debut solo album and cemented his place as a global pop sensation. With its upbeat, rockabilly-inspired rhythm, catchy guitar riff, and Michael’s undeniable charisma, the song quickly became a defining hit of the decade. The confident lyrics reflect resilience after heartbreak, while the minimalist yet unforgettable music video—featuring Michael in sunglasses, a leather jacket, and tight jeans—became an iconic image of the era. “Faith” topped the U.S. charts, proving Michael’s ability to craft infectious hits that stood the test of time.
3. Freedom! ’90 (1990)
A bold and personal anthem, “Freedom! ’90” showcased George Michael breaking free from the constraints of fame and his polished pop-star image. Released in 1990 on his Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1 album, the funk-driven track was both a rebellion and a declaration of artistic independence. The song’s gospel-inspired backing vocals and infectious beat underscored Michael’s evolution as a musician. Its groundbreaking music video, featuring supermodels lip-syncing instead of Michael, became a cultural milestone. “Freedom! ’90” remains one of his most empowering and enduring tracks.
4. Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go (1984)
Energetic, playful, and irresistibly catchy, “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” catapulted Wham! to global stardom in 1984. Inspired by a cheeky note Andrew Ridgeley left for his parents, the song radiates youthful exuberance. Its Motown-inspired rhythm, infectious “jitterbug” hook, and cheerful lyrics made it an instant classic. Paired with a vibrant, neon-filled music video, the track reached No. 1 in multiple countries and solidified Wham! as pop icons of the ‘80s.
5. Last Christmas (1984)
“Last Christmas” is the ultimate bittersweet holiday classic. Released in December 1984 as a standalone single by Wham!, the song juxtaposes heartbreak with the warmth of the festive season. Its sparkling synth melody and nostalgic charm have made it a Christmas staple, re-entering the charts every year. George Michael’s heartfelt delivery, paired with the song’s emotional depth, ensures its place among the most beloved holiday songs of all time.
6. One More Try (1988)
“One More Try,” released in 1988, is a deeply emotional ballad that showcases George Michael’s vocal brilliance. The fourth single from his Faith album, the song explores the vulnerability of opening up to love again after heartbreak. Its slow-burning melody and minimal instrumentation allow Michael’s raw, soaring vocals to shine. Topping the charts in the U.S., “One More Try” remains a moving testament to Michael’s ability to connect with listeners on an intimate level.
7. Father Figure (1988)
“Father Figure,” released in 1988, is a genre-blurring masterpiece blending pop, soul, and gospel. With its sensual beat and atmospheric production, the song explores themes of love and devotion. Michael’s haunting falsetto and evocative lyrics create an intimate and emotional experience. The cinematic music video added another layer of allure, cementing the song’s status as a global hit. “Father Figure” exemplifies Michael’s ability to push pop music boundaries.
8. I Want Your Sex (1987)
Provocative and bold, “I Want Your Sex” marked a daring moment in George Michael’s career. Released in 1987 as the lead single from Faith, the song challenged societal taboos around sexuality. Framed as a celebration of intimacy within monogamy, the track’s funky synth-pop production and infectious groove propelled it to success despite some radio bans. The steamy music video only added to its impact, solidifying Michael’s reputation as a fearless artist.
9. Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me (1991)
This live duet with Elton John, released in 1991, is a powerful reinterpretation of John’s 1974 classic. Performed at a charity concert, the emotional connection between Michael and John, paired with their exceptional vocal chemistry, brought new life to the song. Topping the charts in both the U.S. and the UK, it became a defining moment in music history and one of the most celebrated collaborations of all time.
10. Fastlove (1996)
“Fastlove,” released in 1996 from the Older album, is a sleek and sophisticated exploration of fleeting connections. Featuring a smooth R&B groove and a sample from Patrice Rushen’s “Forget Me Nots,” the track exudes confidence and modernity. The lyrics reflect a no-strings-attached approach to romance, while the stylish music video highlights Michael’s enduring charisma. A chart-topping hit in the UK, “Fastlove” demonstrates Michael’s ability to adapt to evolving musical landscapes.
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.
