George Michael was more than just a pop star—he was a musical icon whose voice, charisma, and songwriting talent captivated millions across the globe. From his early days as one-half of the dynamic duo Wham! to his legendary solo career, Michael’s music transcended generations, blending infectious pop hooks with heartfelt ballads and socially conscious anthems. His ability to craft songs that were both deeply personal and universally relatable made him one of the best-selling artists of all time.
With a career spanning over three decades, George Michael gifted the world with a treasure trove of unforgettable hits. Whether it was the irresistibly catchy beats of Faith, the emotional depth of Careless Whisper, or the anthemic power of Freedom! ’90, his songs became the soundtrack to countless moments in people’s lives. His smooth, soulful voice and fearless artistry set him apart, ensuring his music remains as beloved today as ever.
In this article, we count down the top 10 most popular George Michael songs of all time—a celebration of the tracks that defined his career, broke records, and continue to inspire. Get ready to relive the magic of one of pop music’s greatest legends!
1. Last Christmas (1984)
“Last Christmas,” released by Wham! in December 1984, has since become a holiday classic, though its themes of heartbreak and unrequited love make it resonate well beyond the festive season. The song’s upbeat melody contrasts with its melancholy lyrics, creating a bittersweet tone that strikes a chord with listeners every year. Despite stiff competition from the charity single “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” released the same year, “Last Christmas” still became a massive hit, peaking at No. 2 in the UK charts. Its infectious chorus, along with a nostalgic holiday feel, has made it one of the most beloved Christmas songs of all time. Decades later, it remains a holiday favorite, with annual airplay and countless covers ensuring its place in pop music history.
2. Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go (1984)
Released in 1984, “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” was an instant hit and remains one of Wham!’s most iconic songs. With its bouncy, infectious melody and irresistible energy, the song epitomized the joyful exuberance of ’80s pop music. The vibrant music video, featuring George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley in bright, fluorescent clothing and “Choose Life” T-shirts, became just as memorable as the song itself. “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” shot to No. 1 in the UK and the US, becoming Wham!’s first major international success. Its feel-good vibe and catchy chorus continue to make it a party anthem, guaranteed to get people dancing. This track is a perfect example of why Wham! became one of the defining pop acts of the 1980s.
3. Jesus to a Child (1996)
“Jesus to a Child,” released in 1996, marked George Michael’s poignant return to music after a period of personal grief. The song, a heartfelt tribute to his late partner Anselmo Feleppa, who passed away due to an AIDS-related illness, is a hauntingly beautiful expression of love, loss, and mourning. With its slow tempo and melancholic melody, the track highlights Michael’s depth as a songwriter and performer. The lyrics are deeply personal, reflecting on the pain of loss but also the lasting impact of love. “Jesus to a Child” became a global hit, reaching No. 1 in the UK and resonating with listeners worldwide. Its emotional sincerity and understated elegance make it one of George Michael’s most moving and cherished songs.
4. Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me (1991)
In 1991, George Michael teamed up with Elton John for a live duet of “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me,” breathing new life into Elton’s 1974 classic. Their powerful collaboration, recorded during a concert in Chicago, turned the song into a massive hit once again, with the single reaching No. 1 in both the UK and the US. The emotional intensity of their performance, paired with orchestral arrangements, made the song a showstopper. The chemistry between Michael and John was palpable, making this duet one of the most memorable moments of Michael’s career. It further showcased his extraordinary vocal ability and his gift for conveying emotion through music, solidifying his status as one of the greatest singers of his generation.
5. I’m Your Man (1985)
“I’m Your Man,” released in 1985 by Wham!, is an upbeat, playful track that captures the carefree, fun spirit of ’80s pop music. The song’s infectious beat, combined with George Michael’s flirtatious lyrics and energetic delivery, made it an instant hit, reaching No. 1 in the UK. “I’m Your Man” showcases Michael’s ability to craft pop songs that are both catchy and full of personality. The song’s lively rhythm and catchy hooks make it an irresistible anthem, embodying the exuberance of Wham!’s peak years. Even today, “I’m Your Man” remains a fan favorite, thanks to its feel-good vibe and timeless appeal. It’s a perfect example of the charm and charisma that made George Michael a pop icon.
6. Careless Whisper (1984)
“Careless Whisper,” released in 1984 when George Michael was still part of Wham!, is undeniably one of his most iconic songs. Its unforgettable saxophone riff instantly became a hallmark of ’80s pop music, and the song’s themes of betrayal and regret resonated with listeners worldwide. With a smooth, sultry melody and heartfelt lyrics, Michael created a timeless ballad that continues to captivate audiences. The track reached No. 1 in over 20 countries, including the US and the UK, making it a massive global success. Surprisingly, George Michael revealed that he wrote this emotional song at just 17 years old, displaying his remarkable talent early in his career. The combination of the mournful saxophone and the story of love gone wrong creates a haunting atmosphere that endures decades later. “Careless Whisper” has become a karaoke favorite, solidifying its place in pop culture as a nostalgic yet deeply emotional masterpiece.
7. Faith (1987)
Released in 1987 as the lead single from George Michael’s debut solo album, “Faith” became an anthem of the late ’80s and one of his biggest hits. Blending catchy rockabilly influences with an infectious rhythm, the song showcased Michael’s confident vocal style and undeniable charisma. It dominated the charts, hitting No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and securing Michael’s status as a solo powerhouse after his Wham! days. The accompanying music video, featuring Michael in a leather jacket, aviator sunglasses, and blue jeans, became iconic, solidifying his image as a pop superstar. “Faith” became a defining song of the decade, combining a feel-good groove with slick production and energetic delivery. Its upbeat, catchy sound made it a favorite not only on the radio but also in pop culture, cementing George Michael’s place as a major artist on his own terms.
8. Father Figure (1988)
“Father Figure,” released in 1988 from George Michael’s Faith album, is a haunting, soulful track that showcased his incredible ability to blend pop with elements of gospel and soul. This sensual, slow-burning song became a No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100, demonstrating Michael’s emotional depth as a songwriter and vocalist. The song’s minimalist production, with its sparse instrumentation, allows Michael’s passionate vocals to take center stage, creating an intimate and vulnerable atmosphere. The lyrics touch on themes of love, protection, and longing, while the accompanying music video further deepened the song’s emotional narrative. It tells the story of a complex, unspoken relationship between a photographer and a model, adding a layer of mystery and intrigue to the song’s soulful appeal. “Father Figure” remains one of Michael’s most compelling tracks, embodying his ability to infuse his music with both personal and universal emotion.
9. Freedom! ’90 (1990)
“Freedom! ’90,” released in 1990, marked a bold turning point in George Michael’s career. Part of his Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1 album, the song was Michael’s declaration of independence from the image he had cultivated during his Faith era. With its funky beat and rebellious lyrics, “Freedom! ’90” became a personal anthem about breaking free from the constraints of fame and self-imposed expectations. The iconic music video, which featured supermodels lip-syncing to the song while Michael chose to remain absent, became one of the most memorable visual statements of the time. While the song didn’t top the charts like some of his previous hits, it remains a fan favorite and is often seen as a symbol of his artistic transformation. The song’s lasting appeal lies in its raw honesty and the boldness with which Michael redefined himself as an artist.
10. One More Try (1988)
Released in 1988, “One More Try” is one of the most emotionally stirring ballads from George Michael’s Faith album. The song is a deeply soulful plea for another chance at love after experiencing heartbreak. Its stripped-down production, combined with Michael’s passionate vocal delivery, allowed the song to resonate deeply with listeners. “One More Try” climbed to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, solidifying Michael’s reputation as a master of heartfelt ballads. The song’s gospel-influenced melody and introspective lyrics evoke a sense of vulnerability, making it a timeless exploration of love, pain, and hope. With its slow tempo and haunting melody, “One More Try” is a showcase of Michael’s ability to convey raw emotion through his music, earning its place as one of his most critically acclaimed songs.
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.
