The iconic song "Last Christmas" was written by George Michael. He penned the holiday classic in February 1984.
The Genesis of a Christmas Classic
George Michael, one half of the popular duo Wham!, composed "Last Christmas" in an unexpectedly humble setting. The inspiration for the song struck him while he was visiting his parents' home in Hertfordshire.
Key Details of its Creation:
- Songwriter: George Michael
- Date Written: February 1984
- Location Written: His childhood bedroom at his parents' house in Hertfordshire
Michael recounted to Smash Hits in 1986 that the idea for the song came to him "out of the blue." He had a strong conviction about its potential from the very beginning, stating, "as far as I was concerned it was a number one." This confidence foreshadowed the track's enduring success and its status as a beloved festive staple.
Songwriting Milestones for "Last Christmas"
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Artist | Wham! (written by George Michael) |
| Release Year | 1984 |
| Writer | George Michael |
| Inspiration | Unexpectedly struck while at his parents' house in Hertfordshire |
| Initial Hopes | George Michael believed it would be a "number one" from the outset |
The song, despite its initial chart performance (it famously peaked at number two in the UK during its original release, held off the top spot by Band Aid's "Do They Know It's Christmas?"), has gone on to become one of the most successful and frequently played Christmas songs worldwide. Its timeless appeal is a testament to George Michael's songwriting genius. More information about its impact and chart history can be found on sources like BBC News.
