The Christmas season is characterized by joy, celebrations, and enduring melodies that create a warm atmosphere. Among the numerous cherished Christmas songs, Last Christmas by Wham! occupies a unique position in the hearts of audiences globally. In an impressive development, this iconic song has accomplished an exceptional milestone this year, securing the title of the UK’s Christmas number one for the second year in a row. This is a notable and uncommon success in the music industry, evoking a sense of nostalgia, particularly for the late George Michael, who co-authored the piece.
The Rise of Last Christmas by Wham! to the Top of the UK Chart
Released in 1984, Last Christmas by Wham! initially found itself in the shadow of Band Aid’s charity single “Do They Know It’s Christmas,” which dominated the charts that year. Nevertheless, the song, penned by George Michael, quickly established itself as a holiday classic. Its memorable melody and poignant lyrics have rendered it a timeless favourite, consistently reappearing on the charts annually, particularly with the rise of digital downloads and streaming services.
The return of “Last Christmas” to the prestigious Christmas number one position for a second consecutive year marks a significant milestone in music history. This achievement not only underscores the song’s lasting appeal but also emphasizes its cultural importance. Over the span of four decades, the track has become emblematic of the Christmas season, stirring feelings of nostalgia and festive cheer among listeners of all generations.
Andrew Ridgeley, George Michael’s bandmate, conveyed his happiness regarding this accomplishment, especially in honor of the late Michael, who passed away in 2016. Ridgeley noted that Michael would have been “utterly delighted” by the song’s success, recognizing that it has become as essential to Christmas festivities as traditional favorites like mince pies, turkey, and pigs in blankets.
Behind the Creation of ‘Last Christmas’
The origins of Last Christmas trace back to 1984, when George Michael composed the song in his childhood bedroom located in Hertfordshire. In a 2024 interview, Ridgeley recounted that the inspiration for the song struck Michael unexpectedly while he was watching a football match on television.
He promptly excused himself, hurried upstairs to his makeshift studio, and swiftly crafted the memorable track. Within just an hour, Michael returned to Ridgeley, eagerly presenting his new creation. Ridgeley immediately recognized the song’s potential, understanding that it possessed the qualities of a Christmas classic.
For Michael, Last Christmas represented a true passion project. He showcased his remarkable musical abilities by playing every instrument featured in the track. Together with Ridgeley and the rest of Wham!, he later filmed the now-legendary music video in the snowy landscapes of Saas-Fee, Switzerland. This video, set against a stunning winter backdrop, further entrenched the song’s connection to the Christmas season and has become an iconic image in the annals of holiday music.
Last Christmas in the Digital Age
The emergence of digital downloads and streaming platforms has revitalized numerous classic songs, with “Last Christmas” being a notable example. This track has consistently garnered significant streaming numbers during the holiday season, as evidenced by the Official Charts Company, which reported 12.6 million streams in the week preceding Christmas in 2024. This increase in streaming activity has enabled the song to ascend the charts annually, establishing a new tradition for its fans and listeners.
Indeed, Last Christmas by Wham! has made its way back into the UK Top 40 every year since 2007, a trend that has been amplified by the digital landscape and the ease of access provided by streaming services. The song’s appeal to both older and newer generations has solidified its status as a perennial holiday favorite. It is frequently played in homes, shopping centers, and public venues throughout the festive season, further cementing its reputation as one of the most iconic Christmas songs ever.
The popularity of “Last Christmas” exemplifies a wider trend within the music industry, where nostalgia significantly influences the success of classic tracks. Other holiday songs, such as “Fairytale of New York” and “Jingle Bell Rock,” also continue to thrive on the charts, stirring cherished memories of past Christmas celebrations. As Jack Saunders, host of Radio 1’s Chart Show, pointed out, it is challenging for new songs to reach the same level of acclaim and become instant holiday classics. Typically, it requires time for songs to resonate with the public and be embraced as true Christmas essentials.
The Unforgettable Impact of Wham! and George Michael
For Andrew Ridgeley, the triumph of “Last Christmas” in 2024 carries a mix of joy and sorrow. As a pivotal member of Wham!, Ridgeley has conveyed his happiness that Michael’s legacy remains honored, particularly during a season that held great significance for the late artist. Michael’s affection for Christmas is well-known, and his death on Christmas Day in 2016 has intensified the emotional bond that fans share with his music.
The recent broadcast of the BBC documentary “Wham! – Last Christmas Unwrapped” provided insight into the creative journey behind the song and Michael’s rise to global pop stardom. The documentary delves into the song’s production, the camaraderie between Michael and Ridgeley, and the lasting impact of Wham! as an innovative duo. It also emphasizes Michael’s altruism, as he donated all royalties from “Last Christmas” to the Band Aid charity single in 1984.
The song’s lasting appeal further underscores Michael’s artistic talent and his unique ability to encapsulate the spirit of the holiday season in a manner that resonates profoundly with audiences around the globe. His contributions, both as a member of Wham! and as a solo performer, continues to be celebrated by countless fans who recognize his musical brilliance and his positive influence on the music industry.
The Battle for Christmas Number One
Last Christmas has successfully retained its position at the pinnacle of the UK charts for two consecutive years, although it has encountered formidable competition from various other holiday songs. This year, tracks by Mariah Carey, Gracie Abrams, Tom Grennan, and Ariana Grande all competed for the coveted Christmas number one title, each offering a distinct interpretation of festive music. Nevertheless, despite the surge of new Christmas releases, the enduring charm of Last Christmas has proven insurmountable.
Among the noteworthy additions to this year’s Christmas chart was a refreshed rendition of Band Aid’s “Do They Know It’s Christmas,” commemorating the 40th anniversary of the charity single. Although this version did not achieve significant success, it ignited discussions regarding its outdated lyrics and colonialist undertones. Ultimately, the re-release reached number 12 on the charts, a stark contrast to its original triumph in 1984.
In spite of this, Last Christmas has demonstrated that a genuine holiday classic can endure through the years, surpassing even the most earnest efforts to reintroduce beloved songs to contemporary audiences.
Looking ahead
Looking forward, it is evident that Last Christmas will persist as a fundamental element of Christmas music for the foreseeable future. Its ongoing success on music charts, extensive popularity across streaming services, and the deep emotional resonance it holds with listeners all indicate its significant influence on the holiday music landscape.
Wham!’s role in the Christmas music repertoire is undeniable, and Last Christmas is certain to remain an integral part of the Christmas soundtrack for many generations.
Regarding Andrew Ridgeley, he continues to take pride in the band’s achievements and the enduring legacy of their musical contributions. He has expressed warm memories of his late bandmate, George Michael, and the happiness their music continues to provide to fans globally. The success of Last Christmas in 2024 serves as a fitting homage to Michael’s brilliance and the timeless enchantment of the Christmas season.
Expert Editorial Comment
Last Christmas by Wham! has firmly established itself as a cherished holiday classic, achieving the distinction of leading the UK Christmas charts for a second consecutive year. The song’s capacity to evoke feelings of nostalgia and spread joy to countless listeners annually underscores its enduring influence in the music industry.
For Andrew Ridgeley, George Michael’s bandmate, the song’s success serves as a poignant reminder of their friendship and the musical legacy they created together. As Last Christmas continues to resonate with fans globally, it is evident that this song will remain an integral component of the Christmas season for many years ahead.
Last Christmas by Wham! Tops UK Christmas Chart for a Second Consecutive Year