"Careless Whisper" is one of George Michael's most iconic songs, and it's associated with several interesting facts:
Release Date: "Careless Whisper" was released in 1984 as a single by George Michael, but it's often associated with the duo Wham!, of which he was a part along with Andrew Ridgeley. The single was later included on George Michael's debut solo album, "Make It Big."
Chart Success: The song was a massive commercial success, topping the charts in over 20 countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. It remains one of the best-selling singles of all time.
Songwriting: George Michael co-wrote "Careless Whisper" with his Wham! partner, Andrew Ridgeley, when they were just 17 years old. The songwriting credit, however, went to George Michael alone. The song was inspired by a relationship he had at the time.
Saxophone Solo: The iconic saxophone solo in "Careless Whisper" was performed by Steve Gregory. The solo is often regarded as one of the most memorable saxophone solos in pop music history.
Controversy: Despite its success, the song faced some controversy due to its lyrics and themes. It deals with infidelity and the guilt associated with it, which was considered somewhat provocative at the time.
Music Video: The music video for "Careless Whisper" features George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley in Miami. It's known for its tropical setting and the contrast between the joyous beach scenes and the somber moments.
Legacy: "Careless Whisper" has had a lasting impact on popular culture and has been covered and sampled by numerous artists over the years. It's often used in movies, TV shows, and commercials to evoke a sense of nostalgia.
George Michael's Solo Career: While "Careless Whisper" was initially associated with Wham!, it marked the beginning of George Michael's highly successful solo career. He went on to release several critically acclaimed albums and more hit songs.
Awards: The song received critical acclaim and earned George Michael the Ivor Novello Award for Song of the Year in 1985.
Tributes: After George Michael's passing in 2016, "Careless Whisper" received a resurgence in popularity, and many artists paid tribute to him by performing the song in his honor.
"Careless Whisper" remains an enduring classic in the world of pop music, and its emotional lyrics and unforgettable saxophone melody continue to captivate listeners around the world.