As the festive season rolls around, few songs encapsulate the spirit of Christmas quite like “Last Christmas” by Wham!. Since its release in 1984, the timeless hit has become a seasonal staple, yet its journey to the coveted Christmas Number One has been filled with twists, near-misses, and long-awaited triumphs. Now, in 2024, the iconic track finds itself once again in the running for the prestigious top spot.
The History of Last Christmas
“Last Christmas” was written and produced by George Michael, who was inspired by the highs and heartbreaks of the holiday season. Released in December 1984, the song immediately resonated with listeners, becoming an anthem of bittersweet memories and festive nostalgia. However, despite its popularity, it was denied the Christmas Number One that year, losing out to the charity single “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” by Band Aid—a track that also featured George Michael.
While “Last Christmas” may have fallen short of the top spot, it broke records in its own right. It became the UK’s best-selling single never to reach Number One, amassing over two million sales. Over the decades, the song has enjoyed remarkable longevity, charting year after year and solidifying itself as one of the most beloved Christmas classics.
In January 2021, after a 36-year wait, “Last Christmas” finally climbed to the top of the UK Singles Chart, proving its timeless appeal. In 2023, it secured the prestigious Christmas Number One spot, a full 39 years after its original release—a testament to its enduring legacy.
2024: Will Last Christmas Claim the Crown Again?
As we approach Christmas Day 2024, the race for the Christmas Number One is heating up, and Wham!’s “Last Christmas” is once again among the frontrunners. However, competition is fierce this year, with several other contenders vying for the title:
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Sabrina Carpenter – “Is It New Year’s Yet?” Sabrina Carpenter’s meteoric rise in 2024 has positioned her as a major contender. Her festive hit combines a fresh pop sound with seasonal charm, appealing to a younger audience.
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Mariah Carey – “All I Want For Christmas Is You” The undisputed “Queen of Christmas” returns with her evergreen classic, which continues to dominate charts worldwide every holiday season. Can Mariah snatch the crown back this year?
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Tom Grennan – “It Can’t Be Christmas” Tom Grennan brings a heartfelt, anthemic sound to the table with his emotional track about the magic of togetherness during the holidays.
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Ariana Grande & Cynthia Erivo – “Defying Gravity” Taken from the much-anticipated Wicked movie soundtrack, this empowering duet has captured hearts and may surprise listeners with its chart performance.
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Ed Sheeran – “Under The Tree” Ed Sheeran’s new Christmas release blends heartfelt storytelling with festive warmth, making it a strong contender for the top spot.
Why Last Christmas Endures
So what is it about “Last Christmas” that continues to captivate audiences nearly 40 years after its release? The song’s universal themes of love, heartbreak, and nostalgia resonate across generations. George Michael’s soulful vocals, combined with the gentle synth-pop production, create a sense of warmth and melancholy that feels uniquely fitting for the season.
The music video, set against a snow-covered winter wonderland, adds to the song’s charm, portraying a tale of unspoken love and seasonal reflection that mirrors the track’s bittersweet tone.
The Countdown to Christmas Number One
The Official Charts Company will reveal the Christmas Number One on December 25, 2024, and the excitement is palpable. Can Wham!’s “Last Christmas” reclaim its festive crown and once again top the charts, or will another contender steal the spotlight?
Regardless of the outcome, “Last Christmas” remains an essential part of the holiday season, a song that brings joy, reflection, and timeless memories to listeners around the world. Whether it finishes first or not, its place in Christmas history is already secure—and that, in itself, is something to celebrate.