In a remarkable turn of events, the iconic holiday tune “Last Christmas” by Wham! has achieved a monumental milestone by claiming the top spot on the Christmas chart for the very first time since its original release nearly forty years ago. Penned by the talented George Michael during his teenage years, this perennial favorite has consistently appeared in the Christmas charts, but the ultimate festive reign had eluded it until this year. With its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics, “Last Christmas” has become synonymous with the holiday season, captivating audiences for generations.
A Bittersweet Victory
The winter of 1984 saw the debut of “Last Christmas,” a song that was destined for greatness. However, its ascent to number one was halted by the UK’s charity anthem, “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” performed by the iconic Band Aid collective. Demonstrating his selflessness, George Michael, who also lent his voice to the charity single, generously donated all the profits from “Last Christmas” to the Band Aid fund, supporting relief efforts for the Ethiopian famine that ravaged the nation that year. Since then, the song has remained an enduring symbol of compassion and empathy during the holiday season.
A Resilient Legacy
Despite George Michael’s untimely demise in 2016, his musical genius lives on through the continued popularity of “Last Christmas.” Andrew Ridgeley, George Michael’s close friend and fellow Wham! bandmate, expressed his joy at witnessing the song achieve its long-awaited festive accolade. Calling it a “fantastic achievement,” Ridgeley acknowledges the significance of this milestone in honoring George Michael’s extraordinary talent and enduring legacy. The spirit of Wham! and the magic of “Last Christmas” will continue to captivate listeners for years to come.
This year’s Christmas chart was fiercely contested, with a talented array of artists vying for the coveted positions. Coming in at the runner-up spot was Sam Ryder, the UK’s representative in Eurovision 2022, with his delightful holiday track, “You’re Christmas to Me.” Not far behind, the timeless enchantment of Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas” secured the third spot on the chart. These perennial favorites have carved their own special place in the hearts of listeners, showcasing the enduring power of holiday-themed music.
Andrew Ridgeley shared a poignant anecdote during an interview with Radio Times magazine, recalling the genesis of “Last Christmas.” As teenagers lounging around George Michael’s house on an autumn day in 1984, the extraordinary happened. George Michael vanished from the room, only to reappear less than an hour later, bubbling with excitement. He unveiled a chord sequence, an irresistible intro, and a captivating chorus. It was an awe-inspiring moment that would forever be etched in musical history.
As “Last Christmas” triumphantly claims its rightful place as the Christmas number one, it serves as a testament to the timeless appeal of George Michael’s artistry and the enduring popularity of holiday classics. From its humble beginnings as a song composed by a teenager, to its meteoric rise to the top of the charts after four decades, “Last Christmas” continues to bring joy and nostalgia to millions worldwide. This remastered achievement is a fitting tribute to George Michael’s remarkable talent and an everlasting reminder of the magic of the holiday season.