Wham!'s festive classic "Last Christmas" has etched its name in music history by achieving the coveted title of Christmas number one for the second consecutive year. Originally released in 1984, the song had long been recognized as one of the quintessential holiday tracks but surprisingly never topped the charts until last year. Now, four decades after its debut, it has reclaimed the number one spot yet again during the Christmas season of 2024.
According to the Official Charts Company, "Last Christmas" beat out stiff competition from notable names like Mariah Carey and Gracie Abrams, solidifying its status as not only a fan favorite but also a household staple during the holidays. Andrew Ridgeley, one half of the legendary duo alongside the late George Michael, expressed his sheer delight at the song's triumphant return to the top of the charts. He remarked, "Thirty-seven years to get to No 1, 39 years to Christmas No 1, and then, like London buses, they all come along at once! I’m especially pleased for George; he would have been utterly delighted, his fabulous Christmas composition has become such a classic, almost as much a part of Christmas as mince pies, turkey, and pigs in blankets."
Released during the height of Wham!'s fame, “Last Christmas” initially garnered significant attention but was famously kept from the top spot by competing Christmas releases, most memorably Band Aid’s "Do They Know It's Christmas?" Ridgeley is conscious of this ironic twist, acknowledging how long it took for the song to achieve its rightful place at the top. "It’s testimony to a really wonderful Christmas song…", he noted, thanking all the fans who listened, downloaded, bought, or streamed the track during its resurgence. His warm messages paint the song as not just another holiday tune but as one many associate with their idealized festive moments.
The song's rise this year has been attributed to multiple factors, particularly its association with sentimental holiday moments and the release of limited-edition collectibles celebrating its fortieth anniversary. Ridgeley recognized the role fans have played, stating, “I’d like to thank everyone who has listened to, downloaded, bought, streamed 'Last Christmas' and been part of history. Thanks so much and Merry Christmas!”
Currently, "Last Christmas" stands alongside iconic tracks from other legendary artists, proving its timelessness and stronghold over the listeners' hearts during Christmas time. The Official Charts Company reported "Last Christmas" was the most-streamed and physically purchased song of the week, edging out modern pop hits like Ariana Grande's and Tom Grennan's offerings. Ridgeley's reflections on the song highlight the enduring quality of George Michael’s artistry, emphasizing how this track resonates with both older fans who grew up listening to it and new fans discovering its charm.
Martin Talbot, chief executive of the Official Charts Company, expressed his astonishment at the magnitude of the song's achievement. He pointedly noted, "It is incredible to think… it is the first consecutive Christmas number one in history," establishing the significance of this accomplishment within the UK music scene. The remarkable revival of "Last Christmas" adds weight to the narrative of its storied past and the emotional connections it builds with listeners, emphasizing how nostalgia can play such a powerful role.
Even as orchestras and choirs reinterpret it yearly, Ridgeley remains optimistic about the song continuing to resonate with generations to come. With the ability to evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia, "Last Christmas" has become so embedded within the UK’s collective Christmas spirit, it is safe to say most people can hardly picture the holiday season without it.
Reflecting upon his dear friend George Michael, Ridgeley concluded with heartfelt sentiment, noting how their collaboration not only brought joy to many during the holidays but also formed bonds between fans through shared holiday experiences. Ridgeley's joyous announcement brings the 2024 Christmas season full circle, ensuring "Last Christmas" isn’t just bound to the past but remains relevant and joyful for many years to come.
With two consecutive years as Christmas number one under its belt, the song's legacy is written not just as another chart achievement but as part of British culture itself, welcoming families to spread joy during the holidays, much like mince pies and mulled wine.
