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George Michael, one of the greatest pop stars, left a lasting legacy with a music career spanning over three decades. Whether as a solo artist or part of Wham!, his songs captivated fans worldwide.
With hits like the heartfelt Careless Whisper and the upbeat Freedom! '90, his unique voice and timeless appeal made him unforgettable. His music dominated charts and touched lives, cementing his status as a global icon. Here’s a look at eight of his most popular songs that showcase why his music continues to be loved.
For the unversed, George Michael died in 2016 at the age of 53, due to a heart attack.
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Disclaimer: This article is ranked according to Spotify streams at the time of writing this article.
Exploring George Michael's biggest hits of all time
1) Last Christmas (1,781,072,238 Spotify streams)
Last Christmas, released in 1984 by Wham!, is one of George Michael's most beloved songs. With its gentle melody and soulful vocals, it captures the bittersweet emotions of love and heartbreak during the holidays.
A timeless Christmas classic, it continues to be played globally every December, charting year after year. Its universal theme of unrequited love and catchy tune secure its place as one of George Michael's most enduring hits.
2) Careless Whisper (1,176,709,848 Spotify streams)
Careless Whisper, released in 1984, is one of George Michael's most iconic ballads. Known for its unforgettable saxophone riff and heartfelt lyrics, it delves into themes of guilt and regret after betrayal.
George Michael's emotional delivery and relatable storytelling made it a favorite among fans and critics. A global hit, it topped the charts in over 20 countries, showcasing his incredible voice and talent for crafting deeply emotional songs.
3) Freedom! '90 (288,846,231 Spotify streams)
Freedom! '90 is an anthem about breaking free and staying true to oneself. Released in 1990 from his album Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1; the song reflects George Michael’s struggles with fame, and his need to redefine himself as an artist.
The music video, with powerful lyrics, an energetic beat, and featuring supermodels instead of the singer himself, became quite iconic and remains so. Freedom! '90 connects with listeners who admire Michael’s courage to take control of his image and career; as he challenges industry norms through this track. It remains a defining moment in his artistic and musical journey.
4) Father Figure (151,234,637 Spotify streams)
Father Figure, from George Michael's 1987 debut solo album Faith, is a soulful blend of R&B and pop. The song explores love, trust, and intimacy themes, with unique production and Michael's captivating vocals. A massive hit, it topped the Billboard Hot 100 and remains a defining moment in his career, showcasing his talent for creating intimate and powerful music.
5) Everything She Wants (144,200,895 Spotify streams)
Everything She Wants, from Wham!'s 1984 album Make It Big, is a smooth pop track that became a major hit. The song explores the challenges of relationships, focusing on meeting a partner's expectations and the pressure it brings.
George Michael's smooth performance adds to its charm, making it relatable for many listeners. Its success on the charts and meaningful theme highlight Michael's ability to create music that resonates deeply with audiences.
6) Fastlove (121,448,323 Spotify streams)
Fastlove was released in 1996, and is a funky and upbeat track, from the album Older. The song is all about living in the moment and enjoying casual romance. The catchy rhythm of the track made it a dance favorite amongst listeners; showcasing Michael's versatility as an artist.
Fastlove is known for showing Michael's ability to evolve with changing musical trends; while staying true to his artistry. This song remains a fan favorite because of its fun vibe and confident energy.
7) Jesus to a Child (87,201,844 Spotify streams)
Released in 1996, Jesus to a Child is a touching tribute, to a lost loved one. The gloomy melody and heartfelt lyrics of the song express deep grief and longing. George Michael’s soulful performance adds to its emotional power.
This track is included here because of its significance in Michael's career, as it was his first release after a period of personal challenges. It proved Michael's talent for channeling emotion into art. Jesus to a Child is remembered for its sincerity and emotional depth; making it one of his most moving ballads.
8) Praying for Time (46,229,267 Spotify streams)
Praying for Time, released in 1990, is a thought-provoking ballad by George Michael addressing social issues like inequality and compassion. Its stripped-down production highlights Michael's powerful voice and meaningful lyrics. Known for its deep message and emotional delivery, the song showcases a reflective side of Michael and his ability to use music to address important topics.
George Michael’s music continues to inspire and entertain people worldwide. His legacy lives on through these timeless hits; ensuring his music will be cherished for years to come.
