Few artists have left as lasting a legacy on pop music as George Michael. With a voice that could move effortlessly from silky smooth ballads to bold dance anthems, and a songwriting talent that spanned heartbreak, liberation, and love, Michael carved out a space entirely his own in the music world. From his early days as one half of Wham! to his groundbreaking solo career, he consistently pushed boundaries—both musically and culturally—becoming a global icon in the process. Whether he was delivering a soulful confession or lighting up the dance floor, George Michael had a rare ability to make every lyric feel personal.
In this article, we’re counting down the Top 10 Most Popular George Michael Songs of All Time—a journey through the hits that defined decades and touched millions of lives. These tracks not only dominated charts across the globe but also helped shape the sound of modern pop and soul. Expect timeless melodies, unforgettable choruses, and the unmistakable voice of a true legend. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering his brilliance, these songs are essential listening. So turn up the volume and let’s celebrate the music, the magic, and the memory of George Michael.
1. Careless Whisper (1984)
“Careless Whisper,” released in 1984, marked George Michael’s debut solo single—although he was still one half of Wham! at the time. Co-written with his childhood friend Andrew Ridgeley when they were just teenagers, the song’s smooth saxophone riff has become one of the most iconic in pop history. At its heart, “Careless Whisper” is a confession—a deeply emotional ballad about infidelity, regret, and the irreversible damage of betrayal. Michael’s velvety voice carries the weight of a man grappling with the consequences of his actions, delivering lyrics that feel remarkably mature for someone in his early twenties. The song became a massive global success, reaching No. 1 in over 20 countries, including both the UK and the U.S. Beyond its commercial performance, “Careless Whisper” set the tone for Michael’s future as a solo artist, proving he could command both the charts and the emotional landscape of listeners. Its lush production and haunting melancholy have allowed it to endure through decades, frequently covered and sampled, yet never quite replicated. Even today, it remains a quintessential ‘80s ballad—timeless in its sorrow and beauty, and a pivotal moment in George Michael’s remarkable musical journey.
2. Faith (1987)
Released in 1987 as the title track of George Michael’s first solo album, “Faith” was a defining moment in his evolution from teen idol to adult pop icon. Built around a percussive, rockabilly-style guitar riff and polished production, the song announced a bold new phase of his career. Lyrically, “Faith” plays with the tension between temptation and self-control, as Michael sings about the difficulty of maintaining emotional distance in the face of attraction. It’s cheeky, infectious, and full of swagger. The music video, featuring Michael in a leather jacket, Levi’s jeans, and aviator sunglasses, helped transform his image into that of a confident, sexy, and fiercely independent performer. “Faith” dominated the airwaves and climbed to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, staying there for four consecutive weeks. It was more than a hit—it became a cultural touchstone, defining late ‘80s pop with its irresistible beat and provocative edge. As both a song and a statement, “Faith” showcased Michael’s willingness to push boundaries and reinvent himself, laying the foundation for a solo career that would blend pop brilliance with artistic boldness.
3. Freedom! ’90 (1990)
“Freedom! ’90” is more than just a catchy pop track—it’s a landmark declaration of artistic emancipation. Released in 1990, this fiery anthem was George Michael’s way of shedding the glossy, commercial image cultivated during his “Faith” era. With its gospel-tinged backing vocals, infectious piano groove, and powerful chorus, “Freedom! ’90” delivered a sound that was celebratory even as its lyrics critiqued the superficiality of fame. Michael refused to appear in the music video, instead casting a lineup of supermodels—Naomi Campbell, Cindy Crawford, Linda Evangelista, Christy Turlington, and Tatjana Patitz—to lip-sync the lyrics. This visual subversion challenged expectations and became instantly iconic. The lyrics—“I think there’s something you should know / I think it’s time I told you so”—read like a manifesto, revealing Michael’s desire to reclaim control over his music, image, and life. Though it didn’t top the U.S. charts, the song was a critical success and became a fan favorite. Over time, “Freedom! ’90” has only grown in stature, celebrated as one of Michael’s most honest, liberating, and musically brilliant works. It’s a timeless anthem about self-expression, autonomy, and the price of fame.
4. Father Figure (1987)
Released in 1987 as the third single from George Michael’s groundbreaking Faith album, “Father Figure” stands as one of his most emotionally complex and musically mesmerizing songs. Blending spiritual overtones with sensual undertones, the track is a slow-burning ballad that defies easy categorization. Built around a sparse arrangement of synthesizers and percussion, it allows Michael’s voice to take center stage—smoldering with intimacy, vulnerability, and intensity. The lyrics speak of unconditional love and protection, but in a tone that’s ambiguous and mysterious. While some initially interpreted the song as being about literal fatherhood, Michael clarified that it’s more about emotional security and the desire to provide comfort and connection to someone in need. The song resonated deeply with listeners and became Michael’s second No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100. “Father Figure” is a testament to his ability to push the boundaries of pop songwriting, infusing it with nuance and emotional depth. It showed the world that he wasn’t just a pop star—he was an artist capable of creating music that spoke to the soul. Its haunting mood and evocative lyrics continue to captivate audiences to this day.
5. One More Try (1988)
“One More Try,” released in 1988 as the fourth single from the Faith album, is arguably one of George Michael’s most heartfelt and soul-baring songs. Stripped of flashy production, it leans on a simple piano line, soft organ tones, and Michael’s achingly vulnerable vocals. The song tells the story of someone hesitant to open themselves to love again after being emotionally hurt—pleading for another chance while fearing more pain. It’s a delicate, slow-moving ballad, steeped in gospel influences that reflect Michael’s deep reverence for classic soul and R&B. Unlike many chart-topping pop singles, “One More Try” eschews catchy hooks and upbeat rhythms in favor of emotional depth and raw honesty. That gamble paid off—the track reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, cementing Michael’s reputation as a master of the modern ballad. More than three decades later, the song still resonates with listeners who’ve experienced the fragility of love and the longing for emotional safety. “One More Try” remains one of George Michael’s most powerful moments as a vocalist and songwriter, offering a tender and timeless meditation on the human heart.
6. Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go (1984)
Released in 1984, “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” is pure pop perfection. As one of Wham!’s biggest hits, the song radiates unfiltered joy, energy, and color. George Michael wrote and produced the track, inspired by a note Andrew Ridgeley left for his parents that accidentally repeated the word “up.” That playful mistake turned into an irresistibly catchy chorus and title. Driven by a brisk rhythm, handclaps, and sunny melodies, the song instantly became a dancefloor favorite and a defining track of the ‘80s. Its now-iconic music video, with Michael and Ridgeley in oversized “CHOOSE LIFE” T-shirts, captured the fun-loving spirit of the MTV era and helped launch them into international superstardom. Despite its lighthearted vibe, the song is musically tight and expertly crafted—showcasing Michael’s ear for pop hooks and polished production. “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” topped the charts in both the U.S. and UK, and remains a staple of retro playlists and feel-good compilations. It’s the kind of song that makes you want to sing at the top of your lungs, proving that sometimes, pop brilliance is best served with a smile and a wink.
7. Last Christmas (1984)
Few holiday songs have achieved the perennial status of Wham!’s “Last Christmas,” released in December 1984. Written and produced solely by George Michael, the track combines festive synth-pop charm with emotional melancholy. While the instrumentation sparkles with seasonal cheer, the lyrics tell a story of heartbreak—of giving love to someone who didn’t value it, only to be left alone when the holidays come around again. The contrast between its upbeat melody and bittersweet theme has made it a holiday favorite for those who understand that Christmas isn’t always merry. Although it was famously denied the UK No. 1 spot by Band Aid’s charity single “Do They Know It’s Christmas?”—to which Michael also contributed—“Last Christmas” has endured far longer than many of its peers. Re-entering charts globally each December, the song has become a timeless classic. Its popularity has led to countless covers, remixes, and even a romantic comedy film inspired by it. More than just a seasonal tune, “Last Christmas” captures the complexities of love and loss wrapped in glittering pop packaging, and its legacy continues to shine year after year.
8. I Want Your Sex (1987)
When “I Want Your Sex” hit the airwaves in 1987, it didn’t just spark controversy—it marked a seismic shift in George Michael’s artistic identity. As the provocative lead single from his Faith album, the track confronted cultural taboos head-on, particularly at a time when sexuality and morality were hot-button topics due to the AIDS crisis. Bold and unapologetically sensual, the song was divided into three parts—or “Rhythms”—that explored desire, commitment, and emotional intimacy. Musically, it fused funk, R&B, and synth-pop into an irresistible groove, while lyrically it challenged the idea that sex should be viewed as shameful. Despite facing radio bans and moral backlash, the song still climbed to No. 2 on the U.S. charts and sparked important conversations about sex and personal expression. George Michael’s goal wasn’t to shock for the sake of it—it was to open up dialogue and push boundaries in pop music. “I Want Your Sex” may have been controversial, but it was also courageous—a bold declaration that pop could be both provocative and profound.
9. Jesus to a Child (1996)
“Jesus to a Child,” released in 1996, is among George Michael’s most moving and personal works. Written in tribute to his partner Anselmo Feleppa, who passed away in 1993 from an AIDS-related illness, the song is a beautiful yet heartbreaking elegy to lost love. Featuring a smooth, bossa nova-inspired rhythm and understated orchestration, the track gives space for Michael’s mournful yet graceful vocals to take center stage. The lyrics, poetic and enigmatic, reflect deep sorrow and enduring love, creating a portrait of grief that feels both intensely personal and universally relatable. It marked a turning point for Michael—not just in his career, but in his openness with the public. This was the first time he openly addressed a same-sex relationship in his music, though still with a delicate layer of privacy. “Jesus to a Child” debuted at No. 1 in the UK and received widespread critical acclaim, cementing it as one of his most significant artistic achievements. Beyond its chart performance, the song is remembered for its emotional weight and vulnerability—proof that George Michael was never afraid to put his heart on the line.
10. Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me (1991, live version)
“Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” may have been originally recorded by Elton John in 1974, but the live duet with George Michael in 1991 gave the song a second life—and a powerful new emotional resonance. The pair had performed it together in concert before, but it was their rendition at London’s Wembley Arena that struck a chord with millions. Released as a single later that year, the live version soared to the top of both the UK and U.S. charts. What made the performance so special wasn’t just the vocal excellence, but the heartfelt connection between the two singers. Michael and John’s voices complemented each other perfectly, blending power and tenderness into a stirring anthem of vulnerability, redemption, and hope. The live arrangement elevated the original ballad to new heights, and their friendship gave the duet an added layer of authenticity. All proceeds from the single went to charity, further highlighting Michael’s generosity and social awareness. This rendition remains one of the greatest live duets in pop history—an unforgettable collaboration between two legends whose mutual respect and talent made magic on stage.
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.
