George Michael: The Undisputed King of Christmas Music

If Mariah Carey is considered the Queen of Christmas, then George Michael undeniably sits at the head of the Royal table. The late superstar's connection to the holiday season is as enduring as the traditions themselves. His impact transcends mere musical success; it's a cultural phenomenon woven into the fabric of Christmas celebrations worldwide.

A Legacy Forged in Christmas Classics

The former Wham! vocalist is inextricably linked to two timeless Christmas classics. First, his participation in the all-star Band Aid ensemble, whose 1984 charity single “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” set a precedent for the music industry's response to crises. This iconic track demonstrated the power of collective action and musical collaboration for a greater cause. The song's success cemented its place in Christmas history, a testament to the enduring power of music in times of need.

In that same month and year, Michael and his Wham! bandmate Andrew Ridgeley released “Last Christmas,” a song that continues to ring in the festive season year after year. This track’s enduring popularity speaks volumes about its ability to resonate deeply with listeners across generations.

The Reign of "Last Christmas"

For many years, “Last Christmas” held the record for the best-selling single in the U.K. to never reach No. 1. It spent five weeks at No. 2 in its release year, a testament to its popularity even then, held back only by the combined force of Michael and his Band Aid compatriots. However, its journey to the top was far from over.

The song finally conquered the charts in 2021, achieving a new benchmark for the longest journey to No. 1 at 36 years. Then in 2024, it secured the coveted Christmas No. 1 spot in the U.K. on its 40th anniversary. This year, the song was a true force, amassing an incredible 12.6 million streams in a single chart cycle. The success continues internationally, with “Last Christmas” steadily climbing the ARIA charts in Australia.

Andrew Ridgeley aptly described the achievement, stating: “37 years to get to Number 1, 39 years to Christmas Number 1, and then like London buses they all come along at once! I’m especially pleased for George, he would have been utterly delighted, his fabulous Christmas composition has become such a classic, almost as much a part of Christmas as mince pies, turkey and pigs in blankets.” Ridgeley also expressed gratitude to listeners, emphasizing the song's enduring resonance, “It’s testament to a really wonderful Christmas song that in a lot of people’s minds evokes and represents Christmas as we would all wish it to be.” He concluded with, “Thanks so much and Merry Christmas!”

An Enduring Legacy, a Timeless Sound

Tragically, George Michael passed away on Christmas Day 2016 at the age of 53. His death, occurring on the holiday he so profoundly impacted through his music, added another layer of poignancy to his legacy. More than any other pop artist, Christmas feels intrinsically linked to his name and his music.

With “Last Christmas” and “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” perpetually dominating Christmas playlists worldwide and making an annual ascent up the charts, George Michael’s influence on Christmas music remains undeniable and will continue to resonate for generations to come. His soulful pop tones have become synonymous with the holiday season, an inseparable part of countless Christmas celebrations across the globe. His music continues to evoke feelings of joy, nostalgia, and reflection, ensuring his legacy as the King of Christmas lives on. This enduring connection to the holiday season ensures that George Michael's music will always remain a central part of the Christmas spirit. His unique brand of soulful pop has become as much a part of the holiday tradition as twinkling lights, festive gatherings and shared moments of love.

A Christmas Carol for the Ages

The enduring appeal of George Michael's Christmas songs lies not just in their catchy melodies and heartfelt lyrics, but in their ability to capture the essence of the holiday season. His music perfectly encapsulates the blend of joy, melancholy, and reflection that many associate with Christmas. The songs offer a comforting familiarity, creating a sense of shared experience and connection. The impact of “Last Christmas”, in particular, is undeniable; its persistent popularity is a testament to the universality of its themes and the enduring quality of its songwriting. It's a song that continues to resonate with audiences year after year. The lyrics of “Last Christmas,” “Last Christmas, I gave you my heart, But the very next day, you gave it away” and “This year, to save me from tears, I’ll give it to someone special,” poignantly captures the bittersweet emotions that are so much a part of the human experience, making it a soundtrack to both celebration and contemplation.