Who's behind the notes? Discover Wham! - The Iconic 1980s Pop Duo
"Last Christmas" is a popular Christmas song by the British pop duo Wham!, consisting of George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley. Here are some interesting facts about the song:
Release Date: "Last Christmas" was released on December 3, 1984. It was intended to be a festive single and has since become a holiday classic.
Chart Performance: The song has been a massive commercial success. It reached number two on the UK Singles Chart, being held off the top spot by Band Aid's charity single "Do They Know It's Christmas?".
Cover Versions: Numerous artists have covered "Last Christmas" over the years, contributing to its enduring popularity. Some notable covers include versions by Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande, and Jimmy Eat World.
Music Video: The music video for "Last Christmas" is memorable for its wintery setting, featuring the members of Wham! enjoying a holiday retreat. The video has become iconic and is often associated with the song.
Lyrics and Theme: The lyrics tell a tale of heartbreak during the Christmas season. The narrator gave their heart to someone special last Christmas, only to have it broken when the person gave it away "to someone special." Despite the somber theme, the catchy melody and upbeat tempo make it a holiday favorite.
George Michael's Writing: George Michael wrote "Last Christmas" while staying at his parents' home. He reportedly wrote the song in just 15 minutes.
Charity Donation: In recent years, the song has gained attention for its connection to charity. George Michael was known for his philanthropy, and since his death in 2016, royalties from the song have been donated to various charitable organizations.
Record-Breaking Streaming: In 2019, "Last Christmas" broke records on streaming platforms. It became the most-streamed song in a single day on Spotify, with more than 10.8 million streams on Christmas Eve.
Legacy: "Last Christmas" remains one of the most-played and enduring Christmas songs. Its popularity endures, and it continues to be a staple of holiday playlists around the world.