In an extraordinary turn of events, the iconic 80s pop duo WHAM! has finally achieved a long-awaited milestone. Their timeless festive classic, “Last Christmas,” has secured the UK’s Official Christmas Number 1 spot in 2023, a remarkable 39 years after its initial release. This achievement not only satisfies a decades-long ambition but also sets a record for the longest journey to the UK Christmas Number 1.
The Journey of “Last Christmas”
“Last Christmas,” written and produced by the late George Michael, was originally aimed at clinching the Christmas Number 1 spot in 1984. However, it was famously outdone by Band Aid’s “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” Despite this initial setback, “Last Christmas” has remained a beloved holiday staple, resonating with fans across generations.
A Record-Breaking Achievement
Andrew Ridgeley, the other half of WHAM!, expressed his joy and satisfaction at this historic achievement. He noted that George Michael would have been thrilled to see their song finally reach the coveted Number 1 spot, especially since it was originally written with this goal in mind. The song’s recent success is attributed to an impressive 13.3 million streams over the past week, making it the most-streamed Christmas Number 1 ever during the Christmas week.
The Legacy of WHAM! and “Last Christmas”
“Last Christmas” now stands as the UK’s third biggest song of all time, with a combined lifetime total of 5.34 million chart units, including 1.93 million sales and nearly 413 million streams. This achievement is a testament to the enduring appeal of WHAM! and their music, particularly this festive classic that has become an integral part of Christmas celebrations for many.
The 2023 Christmas Chart Battle
The race for the 2023 Christmas Number 1 was notably competitive, with WHAM! overcoming challenges from various artists, including Eurovision star Sam Ryder and perennial favorites like Mariah Carey and The Pogues ft. Kirsty MacColl. Sam Ryder, who secured the second spot, expressed his excitement and encouraged upcoming artists to pursue their dreams with passion and belief.
A Historic Moment for Music and Festivity
WHAM!’s triumph with “Last Christmas” in 2023 is more than just a chart victory. It symbolizes the enduring power of music to connect, celebrate, and create lasting memories. As we enjoy the festive season, the story of “Last Christmas” and its journey to the top spot after nearly four decades is a reminder of the timeless nature of great music and the joy it brings to our lives.
