Wham! has made chart history by achieving Christmas number one for the second year in a row with their beloved holiday classic, "Last Christmas." This groundbreaking feat makes them the first act to top the festive charts with the same hit twice, celebrating not only their song's enduring popularity but also the nostalgia it brings as it marks its 40th anniversary this year.
Released originally by pop duo George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley, "Last Christmas" has become synonymous with the festive season, and this year it topped the BBC Radio 1 Official Chart once again. The chart stated, "Last Christmas has become the first song to reach Christmas number one for two years in a row," dignifying the moment with historical significance.
The competition for the Christmas crown was fierce, with Gracie Abrams' "That's So True" clinching second place. Abrams said, "I’m thrilled to be recognized during this special time of year among such incredible artists!" Mariah Carey's iconic track "All I Want For Christmas Is You" also made the top three, demonstrating the lasting appeal of these festive favorites.
This outcome mirrors the broader shifting tastes and sentiments of the audience, particularly during the holiday season. Since 2019, there’s been a notable trend—an upbeat surge of festive music with entries like 2019’s novelty hit “I Love Sausage Rolls” and its successor “Sausage Rolls For Everyone” from 2021, indicating this decade as the most vibrant era for Christmas number ones.
Jamie Whitehead, Live page editor, captured the excitement of the moment saying, "A brilliant show from Jack and the team as they counted us all the way down to the history-making moment." The live broadcast of the countdown was filled with anticipation and festive cheer, epitomizing what the season is about.
The Radio 1 Official Chart presentation not only highlighted the fierce competition for the Christmas number one spot but also revealed cultural insights. Music has always been intertwined with holiday traditions, and the success of these songs reflects collective moods and celebrations.
Gracie Abrams, fresh off her second-place win, noted the importance of new voices within the festive music scene. She held off competition from The Pogues' classic, "Fairytale of New York," cementing her place among legendary holiday tracks. The young artist's reflections on her experience were shared: "I’m honored to be part of this timeless tradition, and it inspires me to create more meaningful music."
Despite her commendable entry, it's clear Wham!'s nostalgia reigns supreme this year. The charm of “Last Christmas” offers listeners cherished memories, enhancing its reputation as the quintessential holiday classic.
The 2024 Christmas number one chart hosted by BBC Radio 1 featured seven Christmas songs among the top ten, underscoring the spirit of the season and how artists repeatedly draw upon the joy and warmth of holiday music. It was more than just another year on the charts; the celebration encapsulated festive community and connection.
At its core, the Christmas number one isn’t merely about the music; it’s reflective of our cultural zeitgeist. Music can signal societal feelings and emotions—especially during holidays. The fact Wham! can lay claim to such remarkable achievement speaks volumes about their and the song's impact on generations.
Historically, Christmas songs have the power to intersect with listener’s lives. With Wham!'s "Last Christmas" receiving not just commercial success but also affectionate reverence, it solidifies its role as not only music but as part of the fabric of holiday tradition.
Looking forward, the cultural significance of the Christmas number one is likely to be contested again, with new artists eager to inspire and connect with audiences year after year. Yet, for now, Wham!'s legacy shines brightly, proving the enduring power of their holiday classic.
The music industry's future may hold new surprises, and fans can only wait with bated breath for future chart contenders. But this year, Wham! stands proudly at the pinnacle of the music charts, gifting the world with holiday cheer and making history once again!
