The sound of jingle bells has barely faded after Halloween, but already there’s one song that seems to be on repeat everywhere you go. It’s in every store, on every radio station, and playing at every holiday party. This song has become such a staple of the season that a new tradition has emerged – how long can you go without hearing it in the wild?
No, it’s not Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas Is You,” although that classic has once again topped the charts. The song that reigns supreme around the world is “Last Christmas” by Andrew Ridgely and the late George Michael, collectively known as Wham!.
Released in 1984, “Last Christmas” has become synonymous with the holiday season. The #Whamageddon challenge even dares people to see how long they can go without hearing the song (personally, I was out when someone grabbed the aux at a party and played it before I could object).
According to Billboard, “Last Christmas” is not only a global sensation, but it has now reached the No. 1 spot on the Global 200 chart. This news was announced on December 15, marking the first time the song has achieved this milestone.
The Billboard Global 200 and Global Excl. U.S. charts track songs based on streaming and sales from over 200 territories worldwide. It’s a rare feat for a holiday song to reach such heights, but “Last Christmas” has managed to captivate audiences across generations.
George Michael’s estate celebrated the success of “Last Christmas” as a timeless holiday favorite that continues to resonate with listeners around the world. The song finally topped the UK Singles Chart in 2021, nearly four decades after its initial release.
The game of #Whamageddon was started by a group of friends in Denmark who wanted to turn the constant holiday song into a fun challenge. People worldwide have joined in, trying their best to avoid hearing “Last Christmas” until the season is over.
In a recent mishap at a soccer stadium in Northampton Town, a DJ played the song during a game, much to the dismay of the attendees. The reaction was swift, with the DJ issuing a public apology for his choice of music.
As we enter another holiday season, it’s clear that “Last Christmas” continues to hold a special place in the hearts of many. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the magic of music and the joy it brings during this festive time of year.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.