Sole Writer Gave Bandmate 50% CREDIT On #1 Hit of 1985 to Set Him Up for Life! | Professor Of Rock

This British duo Wham took the world by storm with the release of their first #1 hit in 1984, from their album Make It Big, the ecstatic Wake Me Up Before you Go Go was an irresistible, feel-good jam if there ever was one. But their next single really upped the ante... launching George Michael into superstar status and one of the most celebrated careers in music history. And incredibly, he penned this pop standard when he was only 17. Inspired by a secret love affair, a cheesy love triangle in school that became a very serious 1985 pop standard. The #1 hit of 1985 to be exact.. George Michael known for his incredible kindness actually He gave bandmate Andrew Ridgeley a full 50% writing credit even tough George was the soul writer of the lyrics and melody… Get ready, this is one episode you’re not going to want to miss… NEXT on the Professor of Rock.
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#1980s #pop #vinylstory
Hey music junkies Professor of Rock always here to celebrate the greatest artists and songs of all time. If you’ve ever held up an actual lighter at a live show before cell phones took over you’ll dig this channel. Make sure to subscribe below right now. Ring that bell so you are always in the know on our latest interviews and videos. We also just released some new and exclusive videos on our patreon. . There you’ll find more content and you can be a part of keeping this channel going as an honoary producer….Alright
it’s time for another edition of our series The New Standards. This show takes an in-depth look into songs that transcend genre, decade, and fads - songs that are monumental touchstones in our culture and society. On previous episodes we have covered Time After Time by Cyndi Lauper and Take On Me by A ha, amongst others.. Today we are covering the indisputable Wham!-slash-George Michael hit, Careless Whisper from George’s amazing vocal to the signature saxophone line… The story is just as good...
Childhood friends George Michael & Andrew Ridgeley created one of the most iconic pop bands of the 80s. They named the group ‘Wham!’, a word they felt represented the energy, ambition, and spirit of their bosom friendship. Although Wham was only a unit for three studio albums over four short years, at their height in 84 and 85, they were one of the world's most popular British based acts... selling over 30 million albums. As George Michael would later sing in ‘Freedom 90’, they “had every big shot good time band on the run boy.” Yeah did they ever.
The Wham! duo first performed together a in ska-flavored project they called The Executive in ’79. The Executive consisted of Andrew and George, along with Andrew’s brother Paul, David Austin, and Andrew Leaver. Alas, The Executive soon crumbled, and that opened the door for George and Andrew to officially form Wham in 81.
Their pursuit to become pop stars was relentless, and they pestered every A&R person in England to give them a shot. The tenacity finally paid off when Mark Dean signed the duo to his independent record label ‘Inner Vision’, basically capitulating to their persistence... especially Andrew’s constant badgering.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Poll: What is your pick for the greatest ballad of the 80s?

[@maxaroni15]

Heaven- Bryan Adams

[@MyName-pl7zn]

Every Rose Has it's Thorn by Poison

[@petercena9497]

Big Log - Robert Plant

[@killrmillr]

Scorpions - Still Loving You

[@TheRetroManRandySavage]

Def leppard, "Bringin' on the Heartbreak."

[@PhantomFilmAustralia]

My cousin was a huge fan of George Michael and he had _Careless Whisper_ played at his wedding reception. I reminded him that it's a metaphor for a break-up after cheating. He said he didn't care, and that it's a good song. A few years later his wife was "dancing" with another man, and they later divorced. He would have been better off playing, _"I Want Your Sex"_ and stayed single.

[@si_w8201]

Guilty feet have got no rhythm...

[@ProfessorofRock]

Oh NO!

[@ProfessorofRock]

YOu beat me to it!

[@Fiona2254]

That’s sad

[@si_w8201]

@@Fiona2254 sad because it's true...

[@Camelboy68]

My favourite George moment was at the Freddie Tribute Concert, when he knocked "Somebody To Love" out of the park ! Absolute class.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

What. A. Show.

[@ziweiyuan]

Nobody channeled Freddie's spirit quite like George at the show. And Queen knew it, too...when you rewatch that video look at the big smile on Brian May's face when George calls to the crowd to sing the chorus!

[@karldyke5029]

I was there. He stole the show with that performance

[@Tonia682]

In 1985 I was a HS junior and I was OBSESSED with this song! I’m surprised my mom didn’t break my album😂. I loved George Michael through his whole career and was sad to hear of his passing on Christmas Day 2016. He was a true talent!!!

[@LlyleHunter]

The sax solo and the entire song are one of the most elegant pieces of music of all time.

[@ridethepace6005]

I remember when I first realized what a great song this was. I was 20. Working in a hospital kitchen with two older black woman who were awesome. They loved gossip like most people like oxygen. They would talk for hours about people at their church and I remember one talking about a woman they knew who was cheating on her husband. She said " guilty feet ain't got noooooo rhythm, girl ". It was the first time I really ever thought about that song, or what that line meant. I grew up a little that day, and fell for this song at the same time.

[@franktyred9195]

I remember listening to a tape by George Michael while deployed during Desert Storm/Shield in 1991. The tape belonged to one of the SFC's in my section and he let me listen to it using his portable cassette player. The song that sticks out was Mother's Pride. I remember listening to that (preparing for an invasion of Iraq and Kuwait) while sitting in a six man tent in the Saudi desert. Hearing that tune brings back the smell of the canvas tent and all the unknowns that were about to befall me. George was an inadvertent participant in what was the most important event of my life to that point. I found great comfort in that entire album as I listened while sitting on my cot in the cold and damp of the Saudi desert in February. I wish George peace and hope he understood that sometimes music makes a difference and, by extension, the artist makes a difference.

[@silentscripts]

A melody can bring back a memory Take you to another place in time Completely change your state of mind - Clint Black “State of Mind”

[@malloryg4251]

Professor of Rock- I gotta give you a huge shout-out. I discovered your channel a few months ago and I'm hooked. As a 37 year old woman who always loved rock music, but only on a surface level, you are educating me so much! As a musician, I'm a little ashamed that it took me this long to learn about all these iconic artists, but better late than never. You are a fantastic interviewer and storyteller. You're able to connect with these musicial giants in a way that feels relatable and laid back. You are providing a huge service to the music world, by keeping this music alive and educating people like myself. Today's popular music leaves much to be desired, and I feel that your channel is more essential now than ever. A million thanks : )

[@jismism9515]

Totally concur! I got hooked months ago...

[@Drewinvan]

Totally agree with you...his channel is fantastic and he always has so much history and information on all kinds of music. He also has this really down to earth kindness that makes you want to watch all his videos..

[@muzaaaaak]

@Mallory G, I hope you get a chance to listen to Rock Box by RUN DMC. It was the song that launched a revolution. The 80s were a mega amazing time to live and enjoy its music. There’s many artists you’ll enjoy if you just dive in. Welcome to some of the best music ever. And yes, I’m biased. I grew up listening to all these British synth bands. And life was good. Real good.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Welcome, Mallory! Glad you love it here!

[@markwaldron8954]

Since you're a musician, you might want to also check out Rick Beato's channel here on YT. It's a great companion channel to this one, with a very different but complementary approach to rock.

[@AnnieBoBannie421]

Gone at 53….I still can’t believe it!! 💔💔💔 he left us with some of the most beautiful music 💔💔💔

[@ProfessorofRock]

So true. He also left us with a hole in our heart. At least me.

[@AnnieBoBannie421]

@@ProfessorofRock yes…hard to believe and understand 💔💔

[@metatechnologist]

Another one who left us in his room early in his 50's was Richard Palmer. A consummate performer also.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Way too young. What a tragic loss. He was the BEST.

[@RC32Smiths01]

Absolute a foundational song that defined the 80s. Rest in Peace to a legend in George Michael.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Indeed. Indeed.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

The world lost a whole lot when he passed. ❤

[@Tenebarum]

George Michael was a good guy. He was a big philanthropist but that wasn’t public knowledge until he died.

[@guyvanarsdall7686]

George touched us with his gifts of music and his soulful voice. I truly wish he could have found some of the love and joy he ga e us before he had to leave. Love you George, always will.

[@marneebragg9839]

I was a child the first time I heard this song. It stopped me mid-stride as I walked through the living room. It is the song every one of my friends will sing with me at top volume in the car. This is the song I played so much that the babies hummed it. This song is timeless, and it crosses all age and genre boundaries. It made the world sit up and take notice. I am so glad that we did.

[@duckylove3930]

The very first hit of that sax, my heart clenches. I’ve never associated this song to an event personally in my life, but he composed this song so masterfully, one can feel his regret and heartbreak. Now THAT, is talent.

[@calvingregory2017]

I agree the song is so beautiful that it speaks to you even if it does not apply to you. I've never cheated, but have been cheated on so, I do not know what it's like to be on the other side of that situation. But the vocals and music esp. the sax solo pierces into my soul just the same.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I immediately put a huge smile on my face when that sax starts.

[@DWINC]

That sax was hell to record…

[@ajallen178]

True story

[@scottburton9701]

"Careless Whisper" is a certifiable classic-It's the best song Wham ever did.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Agree!

[@alukuhito]

No, it isn't. BTW, congrats on winning the prize thing.

[@nancykerrigan]

Over Last Christmas?

[@dhtmo]

Being born in 1969, this was the default end of school disco song in 1985. The song where you scooped a girl up for a slow dance! An amazing song that is now question a new standard. Just the lyrics 'never gonna dance again, guilty feet have got no rythym' is sublime and really makes you think about your own life and choices you've made. Genius.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

My mom remembers this song well from 10th grade!

[@jeffpiatt3879]

Thanks for covering this song. A haunting tribute to the 80's Any one who was a young person in the 80's is instantly sent back in time when they hear this song.

[@charliesiswick224]

Even after nearly 40 years, this song gives me goosebumps every single time I hear it. RIP legend of an artist as well as a legendary soul :-(

[@ProfessorofRock]

It's TIMELESS.

[@charliesiswick224]

@@ProfessorofRock Couldn't agree more and may I say I think this was one of your best most heartfelt video's. Thank you for this.

[@brenturquhart7090]

It still does the same for me too. Make me remember a girlfriend I had at the time. I can’t remember the movie, but we saw the movie on our first date, so it became our song. So it reminds me of her and makes me smile.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

For sure. They don’t make classics like that anymore.

[@justjerry2363]

@@charliesiswick224 yeah, he got me at the end with the words about GM

[@jimmyramone7396]

🎷 The Sax on that song is a classic. It gives you goosebumps. 🎷

[@ProfessorofRock]

Every single time.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

One of the most iconic sax solos.

[@jimmyramone7396]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 yes. Great song.

[@TestingPyros]

I feel that the reason careless whisper hits so hard is that everyone has a secret. And everyone has been hurt. It doesn't matter if it has to do with a relationship. It's also a warning to everyone, and the feeling that it carries is just powerful.

[@tnrodgers]

What’s amazing is the variety of genres that have covered Careless Whisper. Kudos to Michaels crediting the song to take care of Andrew.

[@aprilgosa5779]

Andrew co-wrote the song he put music to it and thy finished it together at Andy's parents home and demo'd it LOL

[@flavellinator]

Incredible song... The melody, lyrics, intensity- it has it all. So sad GM is not here with us anymore. This song and "Praying for Time" are timeless to me. They both have George's unique pleading sincerity that stands out.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Very intense indeed.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Praying for Time is my favorite song by George Michael!

[@joshuagibson2520]

What got him? Was it the opiates?

[@JusticeForTheDead]

@@ProfessorofRock Maybe you could do a video on "Praying For Time". One of the biggest early 90s hits with only words for his music video, which ticked off Sony.

[@BillGraper]

One of the greatest uses of a sax in the history of the sax!!! I love the long intro on the album. I bought the CD back in the day for the full version.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Same. Love the opening on the full version.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

The long version is luxury.

[@istankimjong-unbutcantstan3398]

That long intro with the string-synths is actually the 12" version. The original-length version is 4:50 and opens with a drum fill and the sax coming in. I do like the long intro, though hence buying the 12"

[@BillGraper]

@@istankimjong-unbutcantstan3398 The CD has the full length version. I think the one that opens at the drum fill & sax is the single version. They had to shorten it for radio.

[@rosemiller2990]

I’m a massive George Michael fan. I think that his writing was way above the rest. His vocals cannot compare. Seeing him live a few times is one of the best memories I have. I never tire of listening to CW. I understand it has now over 4 billion streams. I guess George never would have ever imagined that this song would endure. In fact in an interview he said it wasn’t his favorite of what he’s written, but it’s surely became the favorite of many.

[@lindamcfarland9656]

This was an easy guess of both song and artist! Im continuously impressed by George Michael's graciousness and genuine kindness to others.

[@ProfessorofRock]

So true.

[@PhantomFilmAustralia]

I loved watching that camcorder vision of George Michael being refused entry to his own concert. 😂😂😂

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I knew right away what this video would be.

[@ashleyslayton9238]

I go back to George’s rehearsal for Somebody to Love and the live performance of that song at the Tribute Concert for Freddie Mercury. He had an audience of Seal, David Bowie and others to watch him rehearse and then to see Brian May’s reaction during the live performance…well, I think that shows how seriously he took his craft and just how blessed he was with raw talent. Great episode, Professor!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

You know you’re a legend when Brian May loves your talent.

[@angelabarnes7588]

He killed it that day. He gave one of the best performances, and I'm pretty sure Freddie was looking down and cheering.

[@bkwurm1]

I’ve rewatched that rehearsal so many times, indulging in how much everyone around him recognized his greatness. Just incredible.

[@RhymesWithCarbon]

I played in a jazz combo and got a crazy amount of attention playing “careless whisper” with a sax player who could pull it off perfectly. We were booked specifically for playing that song. It was a very smart composition and fun to play!

[@robster7316]

A top-notch pop craftsman indeed, Adam! He never lost that touch, but above all he was a superb vocalist, a singer's singer who truly knew how to bring out the emotion of a lyric. His later concerts, some with full orchestras, were incredible performances. RIP, George.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Agreed. An incredible talent.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

So much talent. There will truly only be one George Michael.

[@oneoflokis]

Yes indeed!! 👍

[@ziweiyuan]

George really showed what he was made of at the Freddie Mercury tribute and AIDS benefit at Wembley...nobody filled Freddie's shoes at that show quite like George did.

[@psycmeistr]

George had one of the best singing voices ever- he, along with MeatLoaf and Roy Orbison are my leading influences.

[@teensymom1420]

One of the best if not the best male vocalist of all time. Miss you George! RIP

[@ProfessorofRock]

I very much second that!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

What an incredible person. So much talent.

[@Steven-hk2wb]

Professor of Rock, love your passion for music. Love the details you provide about the artists that have molded our lives forever. Best of all, I recognize your writing talent, and your charisma with the camera. Keep it up!

[@dgarve]

This song, along with Praying For Time and Jesus to a Child are so classic and timeless. As Taylor Hawkins himself said, George should be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. It's criminal that he's not in there, as one of the greatest singers, songwriters, and arrangers of the century. Those three songs bear that out.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I’m really aggravated that he’s not in there. RRHOF needs a wake up call!

[@lavenderfields2910]

@Melissa James I'm sure you know, then, he has over a million votes, so if he doesn't get in, there is gonna be a lot of pissed off fans ! I voted my last vote today ! 4/28/23 And, yes, he should have been in well before he passed away !

[@ginaverdi6101]

I was 15 years old! I loved Wham! Saw them in concert in Berkeley California,They put on an incredible performance!😃🥰

[@dmaynardabu]

On of my most favorite songs. George was such a beautiful man. His voice has always been able to carry me away. He left us way too soon. RIP beautiful George. You are greatly missed.

[@johnnygogo7773]

I have previously stated that I wish you made shorter videos, under 15 minutes. Man, I take it back. I find myself entranced with all the solid information and the way you deliver it. You take me back to a time that I took for granted and didn't realize how much I should have appreciated it. That was my highschool days and the music made it so great. By the time this video was over I was left speechless and wanting more. You did it again. Thank you for that.

[@brianh1701]

One of the best songs ever recorded by my favorite artist of all time. Well done, Sir.

[@PM-fs2eg]

"Guilty feet have got no rythm" 😂...It's just wonderful!

[@paulemerson2902]

Love this channel, you and Rick Beato have the best music channels on You Tube. Thanks for all the hard work you put in to make 70's/80's kids like me happy

[@glo3139]

That Voice!!! Faith was my favorite, but George had a beautiful voice. He could sing anything. Pure perfection!!

[@rad6666]

I can't believe this didn't pop in my subbed content, as a huge Wham and George fan, I have to thank you for this. You could say it's Fantastic.

[@bicyclist2]

I remember hearing George Michael all the time in the 80's & 90's. I remember dancing to his songs at middle and high school dances with cute girls. Great content as usual. I'm sure I had Wham on cassette tape along with many others. Thank you.

[@freethebirds3578]

Wham! was my favorite band of the 80's. I had all of their tapes in high school, and could sing every word of every song. George Michael had an amazing talent, and it's sad that his voice is gone forever.

[@chrisjohnson3694]

I always felt "Careless Whisper" was a whole film-noir movie in a 5 minute song....especially with that sax.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It just has that ambient, haunting, hypnotic atmosphere.

[@chrisjohnson3694]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Yes, exactly what you said..and then the lyrics. Perfect! And so young when he wrote this..a very mature song.

[@davidhinkson8856]

"Cowboys and Angels" fits that description as well and also ends with a great saxophone solo.

[@antsbull3370]

Hi Professor, this was a superb episode, the last part left me with a lump in my throat and a tear in my eye, your emotion really came through. I love the story you told here, such an interesting journey that this song took from inception to release - and two thumbs up for doing this in a Hysteria t-shirt!

[@allsoundmusicentertainment3736]

Thank you for this channel I’m a 3 decade experienced DJ. Music is a passion of mine and has been forever. This channel is on so f y favs. Period. Thnx for the great knowledge and takes. 👊🏽

[@TheRCvie]

I love this song. I've never cheated in a relationship, it's about words and melody that bring pure emotion to the surface. I don't even dance but this song makes me feel like I am when standing still.

[@stephenhanft1226]

I remember when Wham burst onto the music scene in the fall of 1984 with their #1 hit "Wake Me Up Before You Go Go". Loved it. That song is fun, bubblegum pop. It was from their album, Make It Big. I didn't buy the album yet because I wanted to hear another single from them. in 1985, I heard their next single, "Careless Whisper." It is an outstanding ballad and enjoyed it. I then bought their Make It Big album which I still have today. 2 other songs that I especially love from that album are Freedom (not to be confused with George Michael's Freedom 90), and Everything She Wants. Wham was one of my favorite groups that came from the 80's second British Invasion along with groups such as The Police, Duran Duran, Culture Club, Tears For Fears, and so many more. Such a great time period for music.

[@ProfessorofRock]

What a great follow up to change your mind for good!

[@RBS_]

.....well SAID!! ....I bought the LP and "Everything..." ...blew....me....MIND! ...that LP was PURE POP, and all the other acts you mentioned were CONSTANTS for me in 1984 / 1985....

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I never get tired of Wake Me Up. In fact, it represents my teenagerhood with the jitterbug, dancing, and light up in the dark. The whole Make it Big album is gold. British 80s new wave is my favorite!

[@eightiesmusic1984]

Heartbeat is a stand out track from Make It Big. Surprised it was not released as a single. It might have been a b side in the Uk but not sure which song if it was.

[@eightiesmusic1984]

@@RBS_ There is a great Dutch television clip on You Tube of Andrew Ridgeley going back to Bushey where they grew up to retrace steps. He goes to the hall where they played their first concert, his old house and school. The students do their own shambolic but well meant take on Wham which he seems to find amusing. It is a moving reflection on their friendship as well as the music.

[@davidmiller4594]

Again, I can't express how this channel has helped my life. It's not reminiscing, more like educating an ignorance that was decades long. Learning the history... it's like living the music all over again.

[@leslapins7617]

What a beautiful tribute this reaction is, thanks so much! 🥰

[@Debbiesdilemmas]

I was a huge fan of George Michael and Wham. I was fortunate to see him in 1988 one week before my wedding. Careless Whisper will always be one of my favourite songs. I was incredibly sad when he passed and it made me think of my own mortality considering we were born the same year. Truly a huge loss.❤️🙏😢

[@justinskullhead]

Me and my father in law were talking about George Michael just last Saturday. He loves music as much if not more than me (If that's possible). I told him about your channel and he's now addicted like I am. A million thanks to you, Professor ❤ Not only are you keeping the music alive, but you're bringing families closer together ❤❤

[@TdT2211]

Hello Professor, this George Michael, Careless Whisper video has me feeling honest here on the world wide web. This song hit the air waves about a year after my grandpa's life was taken because of something worse than a love triangle. I was just a kid but the song gave the impression that the person no longer existed, therefore couldn't dance again. And the message I got was to not make the same mistakes. Built into a beautiful, timeless song. George was someone who must have always been in touch with his heart to be able to write a song like that. No matter how his life appeared to the public or the decisions he appeared to make in his private life. I appreciate this video so much today and thank you for visiting this Era. Have a great weekend.

[@AnthonyP73]

George's music, whether solo or with Wham, just has this unique flavour and vibe. I admire his talent across the board and his driving vision so much.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

He’s one of my favorites.

[@vcv6560]

The background of the writing / performance of that sax line stands out even more to me. At a friends wedding in '87 as the DJ played the sax intro as the bridal party entered the reception! Shocking I thought, fortunately nobody noticed the lyrics and that couple just celebrated their 35th anniversary.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Very cool!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

What a perfect song intro for a wedding, not so much the lyrics…

[@Fiona2254]

Such a great song. It’s beautiful and the regret is apparent, you can hear it. It always makes me sad to hear it. RIP GM

[@seanr8628]

It was Andrew Ridgely who was tasked by a teacher while both were at school together to take a chubby shy kid under his wing to help him come out of his shell. He did so. So, I'd say he earned his keep.

[@AngelaSmith-tz7wr]

I was 15 in 1985. Careless Whisper always takes me back there in my mind. What an awesome year for music. I also continued to be a big fan of George through the years, he was an incredible singer. He is definitely missed.

[@eightiesmusic1984]

I was 15 in 1985 too. For me 1984 and 1985 are the greatest years of the eighties although there was so much brilliant music in the rest of the decade either side.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

My mom was 16 and she remembers this song well.

[@rbatiz61]

Would you trade that music for what you hear today? I don't think so either.

[@delbertannis5642]

His voice was as smooth and beautiful as the saxophone. Those two beautiful things combined, timeless

[@rbatiz61]

The 1960s had "Yesterday" by the Beatles; The 70s had "You make me feel brand new" by the Stylistics, and the 80s had "Careless Whisper". George Michael wrote, -he didn't know it at the time- the most awesome "Smooth Jazz" sax solo that many have tried to duplicate.

[@joeymorvant161]

Somehow, I knew it would be this one! Timeless classic, and very kind and generous of George!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks for watching joey!

[@joeymorvant161]

@@ProfessorofRock No problem, Prof! Thank you for such great shows!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I knew it right away.

[@Runatta]

does anyone else go listen to the songs he talks about after every video or is this just me

[@fusionbaguio8941]

@professor, this is one of your best episodes yet. Cheers!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thank you!

[@waynephillips5013]

Thank you for this piece. It brought tears to my eyes. I turned 15 years old right as WHAM! hit it big and I was just starting to listen to and care about music. WHAM! and George Michael and even just the song Careless Whisper itself changed and shaped my life.

[@tyrannosapienlex]

"Careless Whisper" is the one song that I've sung more than any other. In my shower, the car, on the Karaoke stage with my best bro, Jason L. Honestly, I'm glad to hear that George shared credit with Andrew. Especially [now] knowing that Andrew played such an indispensable role in securing their contract.

[@muzaaaaak]

I’d pay to hear Professor of Rock sing Wham Rap in George’ s falsetto. One of the most incredible 80s beat hits of the decade. Please, oh please. Make my wish come true.

[@mylerism]

Love the song and the story behind it. The saxophone solo is iconic, but the bass is what makes the song smooth as butter.

[@jefferywise1906]

The quality and sincerity of George’s voice and considering that this song was a chapter of his life, it’s not surprising that his is the standout gold standard that outshines all the rest by orders of magnitude. Speaking of standards Never Going to Dance Again is one and a easy listening melodic gem …

[@MyName-pl7zn]

I have to admit I thought Michael's was just another teen pop idol until I heard careless whisper, I was so impressed and have been a fan of George ever since. He proved himself repeatedly that is was a musical genius. One of the greatest of the generation the Elvis of the 80s but he actually wrote the music. Rest in Peace George your music will live forever! Can you do Freedom 90 it is absolutely fantastic

[@ProfessorofRock]

Great post!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

He’s got ACTUAL TALENT and can take the world by storm with just one big note. Michael Jackson and Prince get all the love as the kings of the 80s, but George Michael is all the way up there too.

[@markmattheviewable]

I played saxophone (mainly tenor, sometimes alto) in high school, and I used to terrorize everyone in the music room with this riff and Rafferty's Baker Street because like a two phrase AC/DC guitar riff, they just made me happy, and still do.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Two of the very greatest!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Baker Street is one of the greatest songs ever, period. Sax riffs are the best!

[@isabel1983]

George is a legend! I’ve been a fan of his for a long time, he’s undoubtedly one of the best songwriters to ever exist ❤ I miss him, but I’m glad he could contribute his art to the world…💫

[@economicsiseverywhere1901]

"Top Notch Pop Craftsman" - Classic Adam! Thank you Professor of Rock for your excellent storytelling.

[@TickleFingers]

For me it isn't just the excellent story of the song, it's the all components of the song. It's a damn masterpiece! From the bongos, the bass, the drums and the guitar to that sax. It's just so damn good!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

He really created a perfect song.

[@justjerry2363]

good point! just incredible on every aspect - if you turn off the lights, and just listen to this on a good sound system - it's just so moving!! Dude knew his craft. I'm not going to renew my R&R hall of fame membership, and tell them they snub George's amazing talent. Even if he's not in the hall, they could have a display of "the best of the 80's British Invasion" and showcase his awards & honor his biggest hits like I've seen them do for other artists that aren't in the hall by showcasing a genre or topic.

[@lavenderfields2910]

@@justjerry2363 George is nominated for the R&R Hall of Fame right now ! In fact, today is the last day for fan votes ! 4/28/23 He has over a million votes, so he better darn well get inducted ! He should have been inducted before he passed away, anyhow !

[@EvaFull]

One of many songs from the ‘80’s that defines the era in just a few notes. This managed to do that with a saxophone 🎷, which normally isn’t a popular instrument to use in “Pop Music” and make an all time classic that outlived the era which it was originally released in.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

That sax is so iconic that it’s worth an infinite amount of the music that’s released today.

[@DanielNewhoff]

Careless whisper is a song Everyone loves inside, whether people admit it or not. It's not the cheating part but the song, melody, lyrics, and George himself. Genius of a song and artist. So sad he's gone

[@donnaleone3818]

One of my favorite songs from the 80’s.

[@DanielNewhoff]

It's hard not to listen when it comes on. He had soo many great songs. Father figure was another classic. Timeless!

[@micahharris5056]

I'm glad you touched on his first attempt at Careless Whisper in Muscle Shoals. A very special place in North Alabama where many musicians find the magic. Great Work!

[@whatifschrodingersboxwasacofin]

I have resisted you. Careless Whisper finally got me. I love your work as much as I feared. Good thing winter’s coming. 🇨🇦❤

[@k.chriscaldwell4141]

I lived and loved every second of the 80s, especially the music. I can attest that Faith was, hands down, the finest album of the 80s. Brothers in Arms a close second. The 80s: _Lived ‘em. Loved ‘em. Miss ‘em._

[@tmklunk]

Amen

[@phranerphamily]

He was amazing! I was fortunate enough to see him on the 25 tour. I owned every album back in the day. Faith is what I consider a perfect album of the '80s. He always completely epitomized my experience of the '80s. I did a lot of drinking did a lot of dancing hung out with a lot of boys and basically had a lot of fun. His album Patience became one of my favorites in the early 2000s John and Elvis are dead and flawless ( go to the city) are great and were never heard on much on the radio even adult contemporary didn't really get what these two songs were. The video for flawless (go to the city) is an amazing one take with perfect choreography if you haven't watched it please go watch it.

[@rosemiller2990]

Patience is also one of my favorites. The album is fantastic and so easy to put on repeat. I love John and Elvis are Dead and I love Round Here. Then again I love all the songs on this album. I own all of George’s albums and singles. In fact I own 95% of what he released. ❤ He’s certainly left us with a beautiful catalog of music.

[@borisbabich]

I never danced - too awkward, terribly self-conscious, phui! But that one time, as a senior months away from high school graduation in '85, a girl literally forced me dance with her, to Careless Whisper. In the beviled and secretly beloved "kiddie" Teen Club in Bonn, Germany. Every single time since, when I hear it, I remember holding her, the smell of her hair, the feeling that life would change within a few months when we all disperse to our 50 corners of the world, the desire and the fear, all of it. Thank you, George Michael - as a rocker I've been so unfair to despise your "soft" music. Thank you, Natalie Stripling, where ever you are, for making me dance that time, ergo for the memories. And thanks for this story - another phenomenal tale on this channel.

[@lespaul59burst]

I am addicted to your channel, great work Professor of rock!

[@MrHappyToBeHere]

George Michael was incredible in many ways. Songwriting, producer and that voice.. his voice and vocal range are undeniable. Personally I think Faith is an incredible album.. but Listen Without Prejudice is a tour de force of epic heights and his best. It is without a doubt a complete album where everything working together is a masterpiece that he never achieved again.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Listen Without Prejudice is a fabulous record.

[@davidhinkson8856]

Listen without Prejudice doesn't get enough credit, and he said it wasn't promoted enough by the label because it went in a different direction from Faith. Loved George Michael's music ever since the early Wham days - truly a legend.

[@justjerry2363]

Agree with what you're saying, though I truly love "Older" LP (about as good as LWP), and "Patience" is very mature.

[@catherine6653]

Excellent video. George Michael was an amazing talent. Careless Whisper is a timeless classic. So many great albums in 1985: A-ha Hunting High and Low Tears for Fears, Songs From the Big Chair John Mellencamp, Scarecrow Phil Collins, No Jacket Required. I have 15 albums from that year.

[@ProfessorofRock]

1985 was right there with the best of them. Thanks Catherine!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

So many great songs, albums, movies, TV shows, commercials, etc. all in one year! Cannot be beat! The Brat Pack, Marty McFly, The Goonies. At school today, I was talking with a bunch of teachers in an office, one of them born in 1985 to Huey Lewis and the News’ Back to the Future soundtrack. I told her, “You couldn’t have been more lucky. The year of gold!”

[@catherine6653]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Back to the Future is one of my favorite movies of the 80s. I also like Ferris Buellers Day Off and Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

@@catherine6653 Ferris Bueller’s Day Off is HILARIOUS. You cannot beat John Hughes, the king of the 80s movie.

[@catherine6653]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 😊❤

[@jorgemacias2785]

Professor of Rock: I always felt that this song spoke to both sides of a relationship strained beyond salvaging by the betrayal of one party. Both the cheater and betrayed lover are able to empathize with the dynamics. Inevitably, the hurt lover can wallow in the sense of perfidy which the lyrics invoke, while the cheater is cloaked with the weight of guilt cast upon them by their conscience. Whenever I hear the introduction, I'm cast back to my early twenties with memories of of a gal that chose the other guy over me. Thank you for this dive into an 80's classic ballad! Yet another well done dissertation.

[@WinnieDPue]

I love how the sax solo is kept alive in memes nowadays 🎷😅

[@justincmw]

How did you miss the best cover of this song ever by Seether. It was an actual released single not just a cover at a concert. They turned it into a rock song but it still has that sad melodic tone as the original and I actual like it better now than the original. Shaun Morgan's vocals dose the the song justice better than any other version I've ever heard.

[@markwakefield6440]

The biggest tribute to “Careless Whisper” was when Josh Riddick of the Oakland A’s used it as his walk up song (as he came up to bat). Check it out on KZbin. The fan’s reactions were awesome.

[@sassypatty2666]

Great tribute to the beloved George Michael ❤❤ As a Gen X gal in high school, I now know how wonderful it is to be from this decade. Fav memory was using this song to single to my girlfriends that our crush was close by. We were all wallflowers.

[@deanrobert9953]

Great episode POR. Careless Whisper is a bit of magic. The local roller rec seemed to sweep into another dimension when it played.

[@andrewbclinton]

George was a better rapper than any of the the new mumble rappers

[@careycrews1]

Andrew Ridgley actually wrote the bones of this song and gave it to George to complete. George DID NOT write this alone. Come on Professor.

[@ProfessorofRock]

I have read so many different accounts. I choose to go off George's since he had all the hits and Andrew never had another. If George already had the lyrics and melody it's his song

[@shambeez]

You are spot on Carey. Professor needs to do a bit more research, Andrew definitely collaborated.

[@Reprodestruxion]

I was expecting Andrew to be interviewed tbh

[@jimmybobbikins]

Epic tribute man, superb channel and content, here for the long run, thank you.

[@lesliemonty31]

George Michael was the ultimate singer and songwriter! He had so much talent and charisma but always seemed humble and devoted to the music rather than fame. I still get tears when I think about him.

[@brenturquhart7090]

It’s funny that most of the big ballads in the eighties are tied to a girlfriend I was dating at the time, and this one is no different. I’m not going to mention her name but for six days we had a very steamy relationship. We were from different cliques and our friends hated each other, but during spring break we got together. I think we both had a strong attraction to each other for quite some time, so when we finally got together there was a lot of passion. Unfortunately, the day before we had to go back to school, we talked and realized it just wouldn’t work. The feels we’re there but we were from different cliques and our friends despise each other. So we broke it off and no one at school knew we had been lovers. I met her years later and since we had time we sat down for a coffee and got up. We laughed at how dramatic we were and how silly high school was, but we both agreed it never would have worked anyways. We were both Alphas and that’s never a good mix. After our coffee together we hugged and then without thought shared a passionate and very long kiss, that attraction was still there apparently, then said our goodbye and went our separate ways. I was born in sixty eight, so the eighties basically covered my teenage years. Took me from grade eight right to my graduation from college, and I will always feel blessed for that. The eighties were the soundtrack for my coming of age, from my being a kid right up till I became an adult. I also think that the eighties were also the same decade modern music came of age too.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Well said. Thanks for sharing.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Those 80s ballads really make you think of girls, don’t they? No kidding.

[@brenturquhart7090]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 when I was a teenager, everything made me think of girls. Lol I could tell you a really funny joke about that, but I know your a junior, so remind me in another five years to tell it to you, that’s if I can remember it. Lol

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

@@brenturquhart7090 Alright, I’ll wait on it. At that time, my mom was very boy crazy. Joe Jackson’s Steppin’ Out reminded her of one boy whose picture she had on her bedroom walls. He was the cutest boy ever, according to her, and was such eye candy.

[@brenturquhart7090]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 that’s funny. For her to tell you that story the two of you must have a great relationship.

[@Tuinuiski]

I always wondered how Andrew contributed to Wham! Beside the visuals. Good to know he helped to write the songs.

[@yossarian3464]

I've seen George Michael talk about how insecure he was at school due to being overweight. I think Andrew Ridgeley befriended and stood up for him, and George never forgot that. In an industry full of snakes, he stands out as a genuinely good man.

[@ihiroe]

Good friendship is immesurable value

[@kimberlyridenour8003]

Thank you for doing this video! Such a mature song for a 17 year old to write. But George Michael was always ahead of his time! This icon song is still be recognized today all over social media. I too was unexpectedly effected by his death. I can't explain it. I became obessed with all things GM. I was very lucky to see him on is last tour - Live 25 - in Tampa, FL. Def gone too soon!

[@marcyloughner3872]

George Michael will always be the greatest, singer songwriter musician ever with the most angelic voice, and I love and miss him so much. 😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢

[@Drewinvan]

Great video as usual Adam...man I always loved George Michael's music...when he died we lost such a legend...keep up the great work... regards from Vancouver Canada.

[@davidbrooks1724]

You nailed this video . Probably the best .

[@jeffsperandio8551]

I didnt know this story thank you for sharing it. George Michael is missed what a loss such a talented man. What could he have given us with more time. His loss is felt deeply

[@thekcsugethe_kc_suge7930]

George Michael. Genius. He doesn’t get enough credit for being one

[@theducklinghomesteadandgar6639]

I’ve always loved WHAM & George Michael. I was going into 9th grade in 85