"Careless Whisper" is one of George Michael's most iconic songs, and there are several interesting facts associated with it:
Songwriting Partnership: "Careless Whisper" was written by George Michael and his Wham! bandmate, Andrew Ridgeley, when they were just 17 years old. It was one of their earliest compositions together.
Inspiration: The song's lyrics were inspired by George Michael's guilt over a secret affair he had at a young age. The lyrics reflect the pain and regret he felt over betraying his partner.
Saxophone Solo: The iconic saxophone solo in "Careless Whisper" was performed by Steve Gregory. It's one of the most recognizable saxophone solos in pop music history.
Release Date: The song was initially released by Wham! in 1984 as part of their album "Make It Big." Later, it was released as a single credited to George Michael.
Solo Career Launch: "Careless Whisper" marked the beginning of George Michael's successful solo career. After the song's release, he transitioned away from Wham! and pursued his solo music career.
Chart Success: The song was a massive commercial success, reaching the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. It also topped the charts in several other countries.
Music Video: The music video for "Careless Whisper" is notable for its moody and dramatic atmosphere. It features George Michael in various locations, reflecting the emotional intensity of the song.
Iconic Saxophone Intro: The song's saxophone intro is instantly recognizable and has been widely sampled and covered in various musical genres. It has become an enduring symbol of 80s pop music.
Grammy Award: "Careless Whisper" earned George Michael a Grammy Award nomination for Best Pop Vocal Performance, Male, in 1986.
Enduring Popularity: Decades after its release, "Careless Whisper" remains a beloved and frequently covered song. It is often played on radio stations and featured in movies and TV shows, ensuring its enduring popularity.
"Careless Whisper" is not only a standout track in George Michael's career but also a classic of 80s pop music that continues to resonate with listeners around the world.