Did you know that "Last Christmas" by Wham! is one of the most iconic holiday songs ever? Released in 1984, this catchy tune has become a Christmas staple, playing on radios and in shopping malls worldwide. George Michael, who wrote and produced the song, created a timeless hit that continues to resonate with fans of all ages. Despite its upbeat melody, the lyrics tell a story of heartbreak and lost love, adding a bittersweet twist to the festive season. Over the years, "Last Christmas" has been covered by numerous artists, each bringing their unique style to the classic. Whether you're a longtime fan or hearing it for the first time, there's always something new to learn about this beloved holiday anthem.
The Song's Origins
"Last Christmas" by Wham! is a holiday classic that has been a staple during the festive season for decades. Let's dive into some interesting facts about this beloved song.
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Written by George Michael
George Michael, one half of the duo Wham!, wrote "Last Christmas" in his childhood bedroom. The song was penned in 1984 and has since become a holiday favorite. -
Recorded in August
Despite its wintry theme, "Last Christmas" was recorded in the middle of summer. The recording took place in August 1984, with the studio decked out in Christmas decorations to set the mood. -
Inspired by a Visit to Michael's Parents
The idea for the song came to George Michael during a visit to his parents' house. He was watching television when the melody and lyrics started forming in his head.
Chart Performance
"Last Christmas" has had an impressive run on the charts, both upon its initial release and in subsequent years.
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Never Reached Number One in the UK
Despite its popularity, "Last Christmas" never reached the number one spot on the UK Singles Chart. It was kept off the top spot by Band Aid's "Do They Know It's Christmas?" -
Top 10 in Multiple Countries
The song has reached the top 10 in numerous countries, including the UK, Germany, and Japan. Its enduring appeal keeps it charting year after year. -
Certified Platinum
In the UK, "Last Christmas" has been certified Platinum, signifying over 600,000 copies sold. Its sales continue to grow each holiday season.
Music Video
The music video for "Last Christmas" is as iconic as the song itself, featuring a snowy setting and a festive gathering.
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Filmed in Switzerland
The video was shot in Saas-Fee, a picturesque village in Switzerland. The snowy landscape provided the perfect backdrop for the holiday-themed video. -
Directed by Andrew Morahan
Andrew Morahan, known for his work with other major artists, directed the "Last Christmas" video. His direction helped create the video's cozy, nostalgic feel. -
Features Wham! Members and Friends
The video features George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley, along with friends and models. The group is seen enjoying a festive holiday gathering in a ski lodge.
Cover Versions
"Last Christmas" has been covered by numerous artists, each bringing their unique style to the classic tune.
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Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift released her version of "Last Christmas" in 2007. Her rendition brought the song to a new generation of fans. -
Ariana Grande
Ariana Grande covered the song in 2013 as part of her Christmas Kisses EP. Her version added a modern pop twist to the classic. -
Glee Cast
The cast of the TV show Glee performed "Last Christmas" in a 2010 episode. Their version was well-received by fans of the show.
Cultural Impact
"Last Christmas" has left a lasting impact on popular culture, influencing other media and becoming a holiday staple.
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Featured in Movies
The song has been featured in numerous holiday movies, including "Love Actually" and "The Holiday." Its inclusion in these films has helped cement its status as a holiday classic. -
Inspired a Movie
In 2019, a romantic comedy titled "Last Christmas" was released, inspired by the song. The film starred Emilia Clarke and Henry Golding. -
Annual Airplay
"Last Christmas" receives significant airplay every holiday season. Its catchy melody and nostalgic lyrics make it a favorite on holiday playlists.
Fun Facts
Here are some additional fun facts about "Last Christmas" that you might not know.
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B-Side Track
The original release of "Last Christmas" featured "Everything She Wants" as the B-side track. Both songs became hits for Wham! -
Charity Single
Proceeds from the original release were donated to Ethiopian famine relief. George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley wanted to contribute to the cause. -
Longest-Running Top 40 Hit
"Last Christmas" holds the record for the longest-running top 40 hit in the UK without reaching number one. It has spent over 100 weeks in the top 40. -
Guinness World Record
In 2017, the song set a Guinness World Record for the most streamed Christmas song in 24 hours. It was streamed over 3.5 million times in a single day. -
Parody Versions
The song has inspired numerous parodies, including "Last Christmas I Gave You My Heart (But the Very Next Day You Gave It Away)" by Crazy Frog. These parodies add a humorous twist to the classic. -
George Michael's Favorite
George Michael once stated that "Last Christmas" was one of his favorite songs he had written. Its success and enduring popularity were a source of pride for him. -
No. 1 in 2020
In 2020, "Last Christmas" finally reached number one on the UK Singles Chart, 36 years after its original release. This achievement was a testament to its lasting appeal. -
Multiple Languages
The song has been translated and covered in multiple languages, including Spanish, German, and Japanese. Its universal theme of love and heartbreak resonates with listeners worldwide. -
Christmas Eve Tradition
In some countries, it has become a tradition to play "Last Christmas" on Christmas Eve. Families gather to listen to the song as they celebrate the holiday. -
Whamageddon
"Whamageddon" is a game played during the holiday season where participants try to avoid hearing "Last Christmas" for as long as possible. The game has become a popular holiday challenge.
The Magic of "Last Christmas"
"Last Christmas" isn't just a song; it's a holiday staple that brings people together. From its catchy tune to the heartfelt lyrics, it captures the essence of the season. George Michael's timeless classic has inspired countless covers, movies, and even memes. Its music video, filmed in the snowy Swiss Alps, adds a nostalgic touch that fans adore.
Whether you're a longtime fan or hearing it for the first time, "Last Christmas" has a way of making the holidays feel a bit more special. So next time you hear those familiar notes, take a moment to appreciate the magic behind the music. It's more than just a song; it's a piece of holiday history that continues to warm hearts year after year.
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