Last Christmas
"Last Christmas" is a 1984 Christmas-themed pop song by the British duo Wham!, written and produced by George Michael.
"Last Christmas" is a 1984 Christmas-themed pop song by the British duo Wham!, written and produced by George Michael. Although it is now widely regarded as a holiday standard, its lyrics centre on heartbreak and a failed relationship rather than Christmas itself.
Background and release
"Last Christmas" was released on 3 December 1984 by Wham! as a seasonal single. The song was written and produced by George Michael. It later appeared on the band's final studio album, *Music from the Edge of Heaven*.
Lyrics and meaning
Despite its title and seasonal association, the song is mainly about a failed romantic relationship. The Christmas setting functions as the backdrop for the narrator's memory of giving someone his heart. The lyrics describe a painful breakup and lost love.
Reception and legacy
The song became an enduring Christmas favourite and one of Wham!'s best-known recordings. It reached number one on the UK singles chart in January 2021, decades after its initial release. In Canada, the song has been a staple of Christmas radio and holiday playlists, reflecting the widespread recognition of Wham!'s 1980s pop catalogue.
Film adaptation
The song inspired the 2019 romantic comedy film *Last Christmas*, which uses the title and music as part of its concept.
Key facts
- Released in 1984 by Wham! as a seasonal single.
- Written and produced by George Michael.
- The lyrics describe a painful breakup and lost love.
- It became a Christmas standard in the UK and beyond.
- The song reached number one on the UK singles chart in 2021.
The song has long been part of Christmas radio and holiday playlists in Canada, where Wham!’s 1980s pop catalogue remains widely recognized.
Frequently asked questions
Who wrote "Last Christmas"?
When was "Last Christmas" released?
What is the song about?
Did "Last Christmas" ever reach number one?
Was "Last Christmas" part of an album?
References
- Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Last_ChristmasSupports: Release date, artist, writer, label, chart and album information
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/question/When-did-Wham-release-Last-ChristmasSupports: 1984 release, original chart result, later legacy
- BBC News — https://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-55509575Supports: UK number one in 2021
- Songfacts — https://www.songfacts.com/facts/wham/last-christmasSupports: Charity release note and lyrical meaning
- Mental Floss — https://www.mentalfloss.com/holidays/christmas/wham-last-christmas-song-factsSupports: Background story, meaning, and film inspiration