Who Sings Last Christmas? George Michael Performs the Classic Hit

The iconic holiday song Last Christmas is famously sung by George Michael, originally released as a member of the British pop duo Wham! in 1984. This timeless festive ballad, known for its emotional melody and bittersweet lyrics about lost love during the holiday season, has become one of the most recognizable Christmas songs worldwide. A natural longtail keyword variant that captures this search intent is: 'who originally sang Last Christmas by Wham featuring George Michael.'

Origins of 'Last Christmas': The Story Behind the Song

'Last Christmas' was written and produced by George Michael and released on December 3, 1984, by Wham! under Epic Records in the UK and Columbia Records in the US. The track marked a departure from the group's earlier upbeat dance-pop sound, embracing a melancholic yet catchy synth-driven arrangement accompanied by sleigh bells and layered backing vocals.

George Michael took full creative control in crafting the song’s composition, recording all instruments and vocal parts himself at his parents’ home in Radlett, Hertfordshire. He played keyboards, programmed the drum machines, and layered harmonies to create a rich, atmospheric sound that captured both the joy and loneliness often felt during the holiday season.

Interestingly, despite being one of the best-selling singles never to reach number one in the UK upon its initial release (peaking at No. 2 behind Band Aid’s 'Do They Know It’s Christmas?'), 'Last Christmas' has since become a cultural phenomenon. In 2022, it finally reached No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart—37 years after its debut—thanks to sustained streaming and radio play, particularly following George Michael’s passing in 2016.

George Michael’s Role in Wham! and His Solo Legacy

While credited to Wham!, 'Last Christmas' is widely recognized as a George Michael solo effort in terms of performance and production. Although Andrew Ridgeley, his bandmate, appeared in promotional videos and live performances, he did not contribute vocally or musically to the recording. This fact has led many listeners to mistakenly believe it was solely a George Michael solo release from the start.

After Wham! disbanded in 1986, George Michael launched a highly successful solo career with hits like 'Careless Whisper,' 'Faith,' 'Father Figure,' and 'Freedom! '90.' However, 'Last Christmas' remained one of his most enduring contributions to popular music, especially during the holiday season.

In later years, George Michael embraced the legacy of the song, performing updated versions during concerts and charity events. Notably, in 2011, he released a reimagined orchestral version titled 'This Christmas,' which carried similar themes but featured new lyrics and arrangements.

Why 'Last Christmas' Continues to Resonate

One reason 'Last Christmas' remains so popular is its emotional authenticity. Unlike many cheerful holiday tunes, it addresses heartbreak and regret—themes that resonate deeply with adult audiences. The opening line, 'Last Christmas, I gave you my heart,' immediately sets a tone of vulnerability and nostalgia.

The song also benefits from its simple yet effective structure: a repeating synth riff, steady rhythm, and memorable chorus make it instantly recognizable even after just a few notes. Its universal theme of romantic loss during a time associated with togetherness gives it lasting relevance across generations.

Moreover, the rise of digital streaming platforms has amplified its reach. Each year, millions stream 'Last Christmas' globally, making it a staple on Spotify’s 'Christmas Classics' playlists, Apple Music holiday charts, and YouTube holiday compilations.

Cultural Impact and Cover Versions

Over the decades, 'Last Christmas' has been covered by numerous artists across genres, further cementing its status in pop culture. Notable renditions include:

• Taylor Swift – Released her country-pop cover in 2011 as part of a charity EP; her version brought renewed attention to the song among younger audiences.
• Ariana Grande – Her high-energy 2013 cover added modern R&B flair and went viral on social media.
• Leona Lewis – Performed a powerful live version during the 2008 BBC Children in Need appeal.
• Carly Rae Jepsen, Ryan Tedder, Clean Bandit, and others have also recorded interpretations, showcasing the song’s versatility.

Despite these reinterpretations, George Michael’s original remains the definitive version, frequently topping 'best-of' Christmas song lists by publications like Rolling Stone, Billboard, and NME.

Artist	Year	Notable Features
Wham! (George Michael)	1984	Original synth-pop version; global hit
Taylor Swift	2011	Country-pop twist; charity release
Ariana Grande	2013	Upbeat R&B style; viral success
Cascada	2008	Dance remix; charted in Europe
Ed Sheeran & Elton John	2021	Remix of 'Merry Christmas'; referenced 'Last Christmas' lyrically

Film and Media Appearances

The influence of 'Last Christmas' extends beyond music into film and television. Most notably, the 2019 romantic comedy Last Christmas, starring Emilia Clarke and Henry Golding, was directly inspired by the song. Written by Emma Thompson (who also starred) and directed by Paul Feig, the movie weaves George Michael’s music throughout its narrative, culminating in a heartfelt tribute to the artist.

The film’s release reignited interest in the original track, leading to a significant spike in streams and downloads. Additionally, the soundtrack features multiple Wham! and George Michael songs, reinforcing the cultural footprint of his work.

Beyond films, 'Last Christmas' appears regularly in TV specials, commercials, and holiday-themed episodes of series such as Glee, The Office, and Love Actually—further embedding it into seasonal traditions.

Common Misconceptions About the Song

Despite its fame, several misconceptions persist about 'Last Christmas':

1. It was a number one hit upon release – False. It peaked at No. 2 in the UK in 1984 and didn’t reach No. 1 until 2022.
2. Andrew Ridgeley sang lead vocals – No. George Michael performed all vocals and instrumentation.
3. It was released as a solo George Michael single – Incorrect. It was officially credited to Wham!.
4. The song promotes a happy holiday message – While melodic, its lyrical content centers on heartbreak and giving too much in relationships.

How to Verify Authentic Recordings

With so many covers and remixes available online, fans may struggle to identify the original. To ensure you’re listening to the authentic 1984 Wham! version:

• Check the artist name: It should be listed as “Wham!” not “George Michael” alone.
• Look for the release year: Original release date is December 3, 1984.
• Confirm the label: Epic Records (UK), Columbia (US).
• Listen for specific production elements: Distinctive synth intro, layered backing vocals, absence of guitar solos.
• Use official platforms: Stream from verified profiles on Spotify, Apple Music, or YouTube Music labeled “Wham! - Last Christmas (Official Video).”

George Michael’s Legacy and Posthumous Recognition

George Michael passed away on December 25, 2016—a poignant coincidence given his deep association with Christmas music. Since then, tributes have poured in from fellow artists, fans, and institutions. In 2023, the Royal Mail issued a commemorative stamp featuring George Michael and imagery from the 'Last Christmas' video, honoring his contribution to British music.

Additionally, proceeds from ongoing sales and streams of 'Last Christmas' support various charities, including those focused on HIV/AIDS research and LGBTQ+ rights—causes close to Michael’s heart.

Practical Tips for Holiday Playlists Featuring 'Last Christmas'

If you're curating a holiday playlist, consider these tips when including 'Last Christmas':

• Balance tone: Pair it with uplifting tracks to avoid creating a melancholic mood.
• Include the original: Prioritize the 1984 Wham! version for authenticity.
• Add context: Share fun facts about its history during gatherings or on shared playlists.
• Explore remixes: Introduce dance or acoustic versions for variety.
• Respect licensing: If using publicly, ensure compliance with copyright rules, especially for events or broadcasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who actually sang 'Last Christmas'?

George Michael sang all vocal and instrumental parts on the original 1984 recording, though it was released under the name Wham!.

Was 'Last Christmas' ever a number one hit?

Yes, but not initially. After 37 years, it reached No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart in January 2022, following consistent streaming and annual resurgence.

Did Andrew Ridgeley perform on 'Last Christmas'?

No. While he appeared in promotional materials and live shows, he did not contribute musically or vocally to the studio recording.

Can I use 'Last Christmas' in a public event or video?

You may need a performance or synchronization license depending on usage. Check with PRS for Music (UK) or ASCAP/BMI (US) for legal permissions.

Is there an official music video for 'Last Christmas'?

Yes. The original black-and-white video, filmed in Austria, features Wham! performing in snowy landscapes and remains one of the most-watched Christmas videos on YouTube.