Wham!'s 'Last Christmas' Tops Official Charts Christmas List
British band Wham!'s hit song 'Last Christmas' has been named the top song on the Official Charts Christmas list by BBC Radio 1.
Wham!'s 'Last Christmas' Takes the Christmas No. 1 Spot
Wham!'s iconic hit song 'Last Christmas' has claimed the top spot on the Official Charts Christmas list, as announced by BBC Radio 1. The song, originally released by the duo George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley in 1984, has become a holiday classic that continues to resonate with listeners year after year. It spent five consecutive weeks at number two on the UK Singles Chart upon its initial release.
Andrew Ridgeley, the surviving member of Wham!, expressed his joy and gratitude upon hearing the news. In a video shared on social media, Ridgeley mentioned that George Michael would be thrilled to finally achieve the Christmas No. 1 spot with 'Last Christmas'. He stated that it felt like a 'mission accomplished', as Michael had written the song with the intention of it becoming a holiday milestone.
Continued Popularity and Influence
'Last Christmas' has not only become a holiday favorite for generations, but it has also been covered by numerous artists over the years. Artists like Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande, Jimmy Eat World, and the Backstreet Boys have all put their own spin on the beloved track. The enduring popularity and cultural impact of 'Last Christmas' is a testament to the timeless quality of Wham!'s music.
The band's enduring legacy was recently celebrated when Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney paid homage to Wham! on their Instagram accounts. The duo recreated the iconic album image from 'Last Christmas', with Reynolds sporting the iconic blond hair made famous by George Michael. The homage further demonstrates the lasting influence and widespread appreciation for Wham! and their classic holiday hit.
Remembering George Michael
It is important to note that the achievement of 'Last Christmas' reaching the Christmas No. 1 spot comes nearly seven years after the passing of George Michael. Michael, who tragically passed away on Christmas day in 2016, left behind a musical legacy that continues to captivate audiences to this day. Wham!'s success and enduring popularity serve as a tribute to his incredible talent and contributions to the music industry.