"Last Christmas" is one of George Michael's most iconic songs, and here are some interesting facts about the song and the artist:
Release Date: "Last Christmas" was released by Wham!, a British pop duo consisting of George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley, on December 3, 1984. It was their Christmas single for that year.
Inspirational Location: George Michael wrote the song while he was on vacation in the Swiss Alps. The picturesque setting and wintery atmosphere served as inspiration for the song's lyrics and theme.
Chart Success: "Last Christmas" has been a commercial success since its release. It reached the number two spot on the UK Singles Chart during its initial release and has re-entered the chart multiple times during subsequent holiday seasons.
Charity Donation: In 1984, when "Last Christmas" was originally released, all the profits from the single were donated to the Ethiopian famine relief. This charitable act added to the song's appeal.
Iconic Music Video: The music video for "Last Christmas" is famous for its winter wonderland setting. It features the members of Wham! enjoying a holiday getaway at a log cabin in the mountains. The video has become a classic and is often played during the holiday season.
Cover Versions: "Last Christmas" has been covered by numerous artists and has become a holiday staple. Artists like Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande, and Cascada have all released their versions of the song.
Wham!'s Legacy: "Last Christmas" remains one of Wham!'s most enduring hits and is a beloved holiday song worldwide. George Michael's contribution to the songwriting and vocals helped solidify his status as a pop icon.
Posthumous Success: After George Michael's passing in 2016, "Last Christmas" gained renewed popularity, and many fans and artists paid tribute to him by covering the song.
Streaming Records: "Last Christmas" set records for streaming during the holiday season, becoming one of the most-streamed songs in a single day on Spotify during Christmas week in 2019.
Legacy of George Michael: George Michael's legacy extends beyond "Last Christmas." He was a prolific singer-songwriter with numerous hit songs both as a solo artist and as part of Wham!. His contributions to pop music continue to be celebrated and remembered by fans worldwide.
"Last Christmas" remains a holiday classic that continues to bring joy to people around the world during the festive season, and it's a testament to George Michael's enduring talent as a musician and songwriter.