Few artists have left as profound a mark on pop music as George Michael. With a voice that could effortlessly glide from silky smooth to soulfully powerful, and a songwriting talent that straddled the line between vulnerability and swagger, Michael carved out a legacy that transcends generations. From his early days as one-half of Wham! to his groundbreaking solo career, he delivered hit after hit—each infused with emotion, charisma, and undeniable style. Whether it was the infectious joy of Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go, the sorrowful beauty of Careless Whisper, or the bold independence of Freedom! ’90, George Michael’s songs didn’t just dominate charts—they became cultural milestones. His music continues to resonate today, celebrated not only for its catchy hooks and lush production but also for its emotional depth and fearless honesty. In this article, we’re diving into the top 10 most popular George Michael songs of all time—tracks that defined his career, shaped pop music, and still get hearts racing and feet tapping decades later. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering his brilliance, this list is a tribute to one of the greatest voices in music history. Get ready to press play on a journey through pure pop perfection.
1. “Careless Whisper” (1984)
“Careless Whisper” isn’t just one of George Michael’s most iconic songs—it’s one of the most enduring ballads in pop music history. Released in 1984 while he was still with Wham!, it marked his debut solo single and proved that he had the artistry to go far beyond bubblegum pop. That opening saxophone riff is instantly recognizable and emotionally charged, setting the tone for a song drenched in guilt and longing. Co-written with Andrew Ridgeley when they were still teenagers, the lyrics explore the consequences of betrayal with surprising maturity. George’s sultry, almost whispery vocal performance conveys heartache and regret with haunting intimacy, giving the track its signature emotional punch. The lush production and smooth arrangement complemented its introspective themes, making it universally relatable. “Careless Whisper” topped charts in over 20 countries and continues to resonate with listeners of all ages, generation after generation. It’s a rare kind of pop song—elegant yet anguished, smooth yet cutting—that taps into the universal experience of remorse and lost love. Decades later, its timeless sound and heartfelt message still have the power to stop listeners in their tracks.
2. “Faith” (1987)
“Faith” exploded onto the music scene in 1987, establishing George Michael not just as a former teen heartthrob from Wham!, but as a confident solo artist ready to take control of his narrative. The title track from his debut solo album, “Faith” mixes pop, rockabilly, and funk with effortless cool. It kicks off with a tongue-in-cheek church organ intro before diving into a stripped-down, toe-tapping guitar riff that’s both cheeky and undeniably catchy. George’s vocal delivery walks the line between swagger and sincerity, with lyrics that tease and taunt in equal measure. Beneath the playful surface, though, is a deeper message about independence, control, and emotional self-preservation. The song was a chart-topping hit, spending four weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming one of the signature tracks of the late ’80s. With “Faith,” George Michael proved he could do it all—write, produce, perform, and reinvent his image on his own terms. Its unforgettable rhythm, rebellious charm, and sharp stylistic shift cemented his place among pop’s elite. More than just a catchy tune, “Faith” was a bold declaration of artistic freedom.
3. “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” (1984)
With “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go,” Wham! delivered a pop masterpiece that perfectly captured the colorful exuberance of the 1980s. Released in 1984, the song is pure energy—bright, bouncy, and brimming with retro flair. The idea for the track came from a lighthearted note Andrew Ridgeley left for his parents, accidentally doubling the word “go.” George Michael turned the phrase into an irresistible hook, wrapped in an infectious blend of ’50s-style doo-wop vocals, upbeat handclaps, and a feel-good melody. George’s voice radiates youthful joy, bringing to life a song that’s both playful and sincere. The accompanying video, filled with fluorescent fashion and endless charm, became an MTV classic, turning the duo into international pop icons. “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” hit No. 1 in both the UK and US and helped define Wham!’s brand of unapologetic fun. It’s more than a novelty hit—its polished production, catchy arrangement, and boundless enthusiasm continue to make it one of the happiest pop songs ever recorded. Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or the hundredth, it’s hard not to smile—and even harder not to dance.
4. “Freedom! ’90” (1990)
“Freedom! ’90” was George Michael’s rebellion anthem—a bold, soulful declaration of independence from the constraints of celebrity. Released in 1990, the song diverged sharply from the clean-cut image of the “Faith” era, embracing a rawer, funk-driven sound. Built on a funky piano groove, gospel-influenced backing vocals, and a massive sing-along chorus, “Freedom! ’90” spoke directly to the pressures of fame and the disillusionment that came with it. George had grown weary of being a pop idol defined by leather jackets and stubble, and this track made it clear he was taking back control of his narrative. The music video, famously featuring supermodels like Naomi Campbell and Cindy Crawford lip-syncing the lyrics while George himself remained offscreen, reinforced the song’s themes of identity and reinvention. Despite breaking from traditional pop expectations, “Freedom! ’90” became a massive hit and a cultural statement. It remains one of his most critically acclaimed songs—an anthem for anyone yearning to break free from expectations. It’s funky, fearless, and full of soul, marking one of the most creative and courageous moments of his career.
5. “Last Christmas” (1984)
“Last Christmas” isn’t your average holiday song—it’s a heartbreaker wrapped in glitter and tinsel. Released by Wham! in December 1984, it quickly carved out its own space in the holiday canon. With shimmering synths and an elegant beat, the song tells the story of a love lost during the most sentimental time of the year. George Michael’s soft, emotional delivery gives the track its bittersweet edge, turning a festive setting into a backdrop for unreciprocated love and vulnerability. Unlike many holiday tracks that lean into joy and tradition, “Last Christmas” reflects the complex emotions the season can stir up. Despite being blocked from the No. 1 spot by the all-star charity single “Do They Know It’s Christmas?”, it became a global favorite. Its popularity has only grown, eventually hitting No. 1 in the UK decades later, in 2021. Covered by countless artists and heard in holiday movies and commercials year after year, “Last Christmas” continues to strike a chord with anyone who’s experienced the sting of heartbreak during a season meant for celebration. It’s a modern holiday classic that’s as beautiful as it is poignant.
6. “Father Figure” (1988)
Released in early 1988, “Father Figure” revealed a darker, more sensual dimension of George Michael’s artistry. As the third single from Faith, it traded pop hooks for slow-burning intensity and emotional complexity. With its hypnotic rhythm, soft percussive textures, and atmospheric production, the song feels like a dream—haunting, intimate, and enigmatic. George’s vocals glide effortlessly across the arrangement, delivering a performance that’s both tender and smoldering. Lyrically, “Father Figure” defies easy interpretation. It explores themes of longing, dependence, and desire, all while blurring the lines between spiritual and romantic devotion. That ambiguity added to the song’s allure and made it a topic of fascination for fans and critics alike. The accompanying music video—with its stark lighting and moody visuals—only deepened the song’s mystique. “Father Figure” topped the Billboard Hot 100 and became a major hit worldwide, reinforcing George Michael’s talent for crafting emotionally rich and sonically adventurous pop. It’s a song that lingers long after it ends—proof of his unique ability to turn vulnerability into something both beautiful and powerful.
7. “One More Try” (1988)
With “One More Try,” George Michael stripped everything down to the raw essentials—emotion, vulnerability, and voice. Released in 1988 as the fourth single from Faith, the song is a six-minute ballad that unfolds with meditative slowness, defying the fast-paced pop trends of its time. Backed by minimal instrumentation—just subtle synths and a quiet beat—George delivers one of his most stirring vocal performances, steeped in heartbreak and hesitation. The lyrics speak to the fear of getting hurt again, the pain of past relationships, and the fragile hope of taking another chance on love. There’s no pretense here—just honest emotion laid bare. That sincerity resonated deeply, and the song soared to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Critics praised its bold structure and soulful delivery, comparing it to gospel and classic soul ballads. “One More Try” stands out in George Michael’s catalog as one of his most introspective works. It’s not flashy or fast—it’s slow, aching, and true. In a career full of hits, this track remains a quiet giant—an enduring testament to George’s incredible emotional range and songwriting depth.
8. “Everything She Wants” (1984)
“Everything She Wants” isn’t just another catchy ’80s pop tune—it’s one of Wham!’s most lyrically revealing and musically sophisticated songs. Released in December 1984 alongside “Last Christmas” as a double A-side, this track surprised fans with its darker tone and introspective lyrics. On the surface, it’s driven by a sleek synth-pop groove and a danceable beat. But dig deeper, and you’ll find a pointed narrative about a man grappling with the demands of a seemingly perfect relationship that’s left him emotionally drained. George Michael wrote, produced, and performed every part of the song himself—showcasing his growing talent as a multi-instrumentalist and storyteller. His vocal delivery moves from smooth resignation to frustrated disbelief, adding weight to lines like “Everything she wants is everything she sees.” The track resonated with listeners and topped the Billboard Hot 100 in 1985. Its blend of pop polish and lyrical maturity signaled that George was ready to explore more complex themes, even within a chart-friendly format. “Everything She Wants” remains a standout in the Wham! discography and a fan favorite for its honesty, groove, and musical craftsmanship.
9. “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” (with Elton John) (1991)
The 1991 live duet of “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” between George Michael and Elton John wasn’t just a performance—it was a moment of magic captured on stage. Originally released by Elton in 1974, the song was already a classic, but this version—recorded during George’s concert at Wembley Arena—brought it new life and deeper emotional resonance. When Elton emerged unexpectedly from the shadows to join George onstage, the crowd erupted, and a legendary collaboration was born. Their voices blended beautifully—George’s soaring and heartfelt, Elton’s steady and soulful. Together, they transformed the ballad into a powerhouse of passion and mutual respect. The live single rocketed to No. 1 in both the UK and US, becoming one of the most celebrated duets in pop history. What makes this version so unforgettable is not just the vocal chemistry, but the sense of sincerity and admiration between two iconic artists. “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” became more than a cover—it was a tribute to friendship, artistry, and emotional vulnerability shared in front of thousands. It remains one of the most breathtaking live moments ever captured on record.
10. “I Want Your Sex” (1987)
When George Michael released “I Want Your Sex” in 1987, he shattered pop’s boundaries with a provocative, unapologetic anthem about desire, love, and intimacy. As the lead single from his solo debut Faith, the song boldly challenged radio norms with its frank expression of sexuality—something still taboo for mainstream pop at the time. Structured in three interconnected sections, or “Rhythms,” the track pulses with funky basslines, layered synths, and a sensual groove that refuses to be ignored. Lyrically, George aimed not just to titillate but to normalize discussions of consent and monogamous intimacy—pushing back against puritanical attitudes. Despite bans from several radio stations and edited versions, the song became a massive hit, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. It also stirred global conversation, positioning George as a fearless artist willing to challenge the status quo. “I Want Your Sex” was more than a controversial single—it was a bold declaration of personal and artistic freedom. It helped pave the way for more open conversations about sex in pop music and signaled the start of a new, uncompromising phase in George Michael’s career.
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.
