Since his passing in 2016, George Michael has been remembered as one of the most iconic vocalists in history, both as a solo artist as well as part of the pop duo Wham! While his work in Wham! might be more recognizable to some, Michael also found great success as a solo artist, and some of the songs he put out over the years have remained an important piece of pop culture. Here, take a look at our ranking of seven of his best songs from over the years.
7. “Freedom! ‘90” (1990)
Despite the fact that the beat of this song is absolutely infectious, the lyrics paint a pretty distinct picture. In this 1990 hit, the star reflects on his highly successful career as part of Wham!, but also his frustration and dissatisfaction with the industry as a whole. However, it looks ahead toward the next step in his journey.
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6. “Jesus to a Child” (1996)
This heartfelt, emotional tune was written as a tribute to the singer’s lover, Anselmo Feleppa, who sadly died, leaving a lasting impact on the singer.
5. “Cowboys and Angels” (1990)
In “Cowboys and Angels,” Michael sings about the experience of wanting someone you can’t have, taking inspiration from a love triangle he was once involved in.
“When your heart’s in someone else’s plans/Things you say and things you do, that they don’t understand/It’s such a shame, always ends the same/You can call it love but I don’t think it’s true/You should know by now, I’m not the boy for you/You’re not to blame, always ends the same,” he sings.
4. “Father Figure” (1987)
The lyrics of “Father Figure” paint a picture of desire. While the exact meaning of the song has long been debated and discussed, it’s clear that Michael is yearning for a certain intimate connection with someone.
3. “Fastlove” (1996)
On “Fastlove,” the musician sings of his lack of desire for a committed relationship, instead wanting something casual and quick, without strings attached.
“I won’t bore you with the details, baby/I don’t even want to waste your time/Let’s just say that maybe/You could help to ease my mind/Baby, I ain’t Mr. Right/But if you’re looking for fastlove/If that’s love in your eyes/It’s more than enough/Had some bad love/So fast love is all that I’ve got on my mind,” he sings.
2. “Faith” (1987)
In another song with an infectious beat, Michael sings of none other than faith on the hit track “Faith.” In this instance, he’s singing of letting a partner go, maintaining faith that something better will come along.
1. “Careless Whisper” (1984)
Though this song has been credited to both Wham! and George Michael individually over the years, it’s only right that we included it anyway. From that seductive saxophone to the lyrics we love, “Careless Whisper” is a classic for a reason.
