Get ready to relive the magic of a timeless classic! George Michael's estate has announced a special re-release of the iconic hit ‘Careless Whisper’ to mark its 40th anniversary. Originally released in 1984, the track became an instant sensation, topping charts in 25 countries, and earning a seven-times Platinum certification in the US. In the UK alone, it has sold over 1.5 million copies.
This October 18, George Michael Entertainment and Sony Music are set to release a new EP, available both digitally and physically, featuring a never-before-released live recording from Madison Square Garden in 2008. This performance was Michael’s first in New York City after a 17-year break.
The "Careless Whisper EP" will also include newly mastered versions of the original single, an extended mix, and an instrumental version. The release promises to be a heartfelt tribute to George’s enduring legacy and a special thank you to fans worldwide.
Reflecting on the song's creation, Michael once shared in an interview: “I remember saying to Andrew one day when we were walking home from school, we were bunking off, and I remember we’d written "Careless Whisper". We’d finished it about a week before in a basement flat in Peckham. I remember saying to Andrew ‘I’ve no idea who will do it, whether it’ll be us or not, but this is a hit. This is a Number One record for someone. It’s interesting, I had an absolute confidence then and it took about three or four albums before I realised that maybe I was as good a singer as I was a writer.”
Michael passed away on Christmas Day in 2016 at the age of 53. His influence and music continue to resonate, as evidenced by Wham!’s "Last Christmas" reaching the Number One spot on the UK singles chart for the first time last December, 39 years after its release.
In addition to the re-release, fans can celebrate Michael's legacy through his posthumous induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame last year and a special coin issued by the Royal Mint earlier this year as part of their Music Legends series.
Photo: ROB VERHORST/REDFERNS
