The festive season is upon us, and with it comes a deluge of holiday music. Amidst the jingle bells and cheerful carols, there’s one song that consistently rises to the top of playlists, year after year: Wham!’s “Last Christmas.” Despite its melancholic undertones, this 1984 hit has become a cornerstone of the Christmas songbook, a tune that many consider Something To Rely On Song during the holidays.
Why does this particular track, with its tale of heartbreak amidst yuletide cheer, hold such enduring appeal? Its popularity is undeniable. From countless covers spanning genres from trap remixes to folk interpretations, to its central role in the 2019 film of the same name, “Last Christmas” has permeated popular culture. Even pop royalty like Taylor Swift, Kelly Clarkson, and Ariana Grande have embraced its charm, proving its cross-generational appeal. Adding to its legacy, George Michael, the voice behind this iconic song, was posthumously inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, cementing his place in music history and further amplifying the song’s significance.
George Michael in the iconic 'Last Christmas' music video, a song many find something to rely on during the holiday season.
Before diving deeper into the song’s impact, it’s worth noting its recent cinematic revival. The movie “Last Christmas,” starring Emilia Clarke and Henry Golding, isn’t just titled after the song; it’s woven around the very essence of George Michael’s music. While not an Oscar contender, the film, co-written by Emma Thompson, offers a heartwarming and quirky holiday narrative, underscored by a soundtrack brimming with George Michael classics, not just the titular hit. For those seeking a less predictable Christmas movie experience, skipping the trailer and embracing the film’s blend of humor and heart is highly recommended.
“Once bitten and twice shy
I keep my distance, but you still catch my eye”
But let’s return to the heart of the matter: the song itself. “Last Christmas” isn’t just background noise for gift-wrapping; it’s a meticulously crafted piece of 80s pop that resonates on multiple levels. Filmed in the snowy Swiss Alps in 1984, the music video itself is a visual time capsule. Model Kathy Hill, the “ice queen” of the video, recalls the frigid conditions and the playful on-set atmosphere, including George Michael’s memorable slip in the snow, a moment of genuine laughter immortalized in the final cut.
Andrew Ridgeley, George Michael’s Wham! partner, perfectly encapsulates the song’s magic, stating, “The first time I ever heard it, it was absolutely knockout. It sounded for all the world like a Christmas classic.” He further adds, “It’s Christmas distilled if you ask me. It’s the essence of Christmas.”
Indeed, “Last Christmas” has become more than just a song; it’s become an annual tradition, a comforting melody amidst the holiday bustle. Whether you’re drawn to its catchy synth-pop hooks, George Michael’s soulful vocals, or its bittersweet narrative, “Last Christmas” remains a song that many turn to, something to rely on song, to evoke the complex emotions of the Christmas season. It’s a reminder that even amidst the festive cheer, there’s space for reflection, perhaps a touch of melancholy, and ultimately, the enduring power of a truly great song.
Video commentary: Beyond the music, the “Last Christmas” video sparks questions and playful debate. Was Kathy’s character truly unmoved by George’s charm? The fence-hopping entrance to the chalet adds a quirky, almost whimsical touch. And the re-gifted brooch theory? It only adds to the video’s enduring mystique. Adding to the Wham! family in the video are backup singers Helen “Pepsi” DeMacque and Shirlie Holliman, who later achieved their own pop success as Pepsi and Shirlie.
Wishing everyone a very happy holiday season.
