George Michael’s influence on music and culture remains profound, as evidenced by recent tributes and commemorations honoring his legacy.
In December 2024, Wham!’s iconic holiday track, “Last Christmas,” achieved the UK Christmas number one spot for the second consecutive year, nearly four decades after its initial release. This milestone coincided with the 40th-anniversary EP launch and approached the anniversary of Michael’s passing on December 25, 2016. Andrew Ridgeley, Michael’s Wham! partner, expressed that George would have been thrilled with this achievement, noting the song’s status as a timeless festive classic.
Complementing this musical success, the BBC aired “Wham! Last Christmas Unwrapped,” a heartfelt documentary exploring the creation and enduring impact of the song. The program featured intimate interviews with band members and highlighted the deep friendship between Michael and Ridgeley. It also showcased the song’s cultural significance and included tributes from artists like Sam Smith and Mary J. Blige.
In February 2024, the Royal Mint honored Michael by releasing a commemorative coin featuring his likeness, complete with his signature aviator sunglasses and earring. This tribute is part of the Music Legends series, which has previously celebrated artists such as Elton John and David Bowie.
Additionally, the 40th anniversary of Band Aid’s “Do They Know It’s Christmas?”
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