Christmas music is a genre filled with classics, but few songs have captured the hearts and endured like Wham!’s “Last Christmas.” More than just a catchy 80s tune, this song has become a staple of the holiday season, a piece of musical comfort that many turn to year after year. Its enduring popularity isn’t just about festive cheer; it taps into deeper emotions, making it something to rely on song for many during the sometimes complicated holiday season.
George Michael in the Last Christmas music video, leaning against a snowy tree.
The original blog post hinted at the song’s power, mentioning its countless covers and its central role in the movie “Last Christmas.” This isn’t just a fleeting Christmas fad; “Last Christmas” has become a cultural touchstone. Even the playful “Whamageddon” game, designed to avoid hearing the song until Christmas Eve, speaks to its ubiquity. As one of the “Whamageddon” founders noted, it’s a funny game built around a song that is undeniably everywhere during the holidays.
George Michael’s passing on Christmas Day in 2016 only amplified the song’s resonance. His untimely death at 53 added a layer of poignancy to a song already laden with themes of love, loss, and reflection. The song’s re-emergence each Christmas is not just a nostalgic revisit to the 80s; it’s a moment to remember a beloved artist and connect with the bittersweet emotions the holidays can bring.
The song’s impact is evident in its numerous covers across genres. From pop queens like Taylor Swift and Ariana Grande to unexpected interpretations like trap remixes and folk versions, “Last Christmas” has proven its versatility and timeless appeal. This constant re-imagining keeps the song fresh and relevant for new generations, further cementing its status as something to rely on song for artists and audiences alike. George Michael’s recent posthumous induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is another testament to his lasting influence and the enduring power of his music, including this holiday classic.
The blog post also touched upon the 2019 movie “Last Christmas,” a film deeply intertwined with George Michael’s music. While not an Oscar contender, the movie, starring Emilia Clarke and Henry Golding, found its own charm and became a holiday favorite for many. The film’s soundtrack, featuring not just “Last Christmas” but other George Michael hits, underscores the emotional depth of his musical catalog and how it can enhance storytelling. The movie serves as a modern example of how “Last Christmas” continues to inspire and connect with audiences in new ways, proving its ongoing relevance as something to rely on song for festive narratives.
The music video itself, filmed in the Swiss Alps in 1984, is a quintessential piece of 80s visual storytelling. Model Kathy Hill, the “ice queen” of the video, shared anecdotes about the chilly filming conditions and the playful moments with George Michael on set. Andrew Ridgeley, George’s Wham! bandmate, aptly described the song as “Christmas distilled” and “the essence of Christmas.” This essence is what makes “Last Christmas” more than just a song; it’s an experience, a feeling, something to rely on song to evoke the spirit of the season.
Even the humorous commentary on the music video in the original post – questioning the plot inconsistencies and the character’s choices – highlights our deep engagement with “Last Christmas.” We dissect it, analyze it, and keep returning to it, not just for its musicality but for the story it tells and the emotions it stirs. The video, featuring Wham!’s backup singers Pepsi and Shirlie, adds another layer of 80s nostalgia and charm.
In conclusion, “Last Christmas” by Wham! is far more than just a holiday hit. It’s a cultural phenomenon, a source of comfort, and something to rely on song that resonates deeply with listeners year after year. Its enduring appeal lies in its blend of catchy melody, heartfelt lyrics, and the poignant emotions it evokes, making it a true Christmas classic and a lasting legacy of George Michael’s musical genius. So, this holiday season, whether you’re participating in Whamageddon or embracing the festive spirit, “Last Christmas” remains a song you can always count on.
