George Michael's No.1 Hits: A Definitive Ranking of His Iconic Chart-Toppers

The King of Pop's Golden Era

George Michael wasn't just a pop star—he was a phenomenon. As half of Wham! and a solo powerhouse, he dominated the Billboard charts throughout the '80s and '90s, leaving behind a catalog of timeless anthems. His untimely death on Christmas Day 2016 shocked the world, but his music continues to define generations. This week, the documentary Wham! arrives on Netflix, and the compilation The Singles: Echoes From The Edge Of Heaven has just dropped. To honor the moment, we've revisited his 10 US Billboard No.1 hits—ranked from least to most legendary, based on pure cultural impact and undeniable earworm power.

As documented in Screenshot (550).png, this ranking is subjective but absolute. No arguments. Prepare to relive the magic.

The Complete Ranking

10. “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” (George Michael & Elton John, 1992)

A live duet for the ages. Michael joined Elton John on stage for a performance that oozes raw emotion and vocal fireworks. The song hit No.1 on Feb. 1, 1992, and reigned for one week. It's a beautiful ballad, but in a catalog this deep, it lands at the bottom.

9. “Praying for Time” (George Michael, 1986)

A socially conscious powerhouse that proved Michael could tackle heavy themes without losing his pop edge. Released as a single in 1990, it climbed to No.1 on Oct. 13 and held for a week. The haunting lyrics and stripped-down production still resonate today.

8. “Monkey” (George Michael, 1988)

One of the funkiest tracks in Michael's solo arsenal. “Monkey” grooved its way to No.1 on Aug. 27, 1988, for a single week. Its infectious beat and playful vocals make it a hidden gem in his discography.

7. “I Knew You Were Waiting (for Me)” (Aretha Franklin & George Michael, 1987)

A dream collaboration between the Queen of Soul and the King of Pop. This duet soared to No.1 on April 18, 1987, and stayed for two weeks. The chemistry is electric—a masterclass in vocal pairing.

6. “One More Try” (George Michael, 1988)

A soulful ballad that showcases Michael's vulnerability and incredible range. It hit No.1 on May 28, 1988, and remained for three weeks. The song's aching plea for love still gives chills.

5. “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” (Wham!, 1984)

The ultimate feel-good anthem. Wham!'s breakout smash exploded to No.1 on Nov. 17, 1984, and held for three weeks. With its catchy chorus and iconic video, it's impossible not to smile when it comes on.

4. “Father Figure” (George Michael, 1988)

Moody, seductive, and utterly brilliant. “Father Figure” topped the charts for two weeks after reaching No.1 on Feb. 27, 1988. Its cinematic production and provocative lyrics turned it into a staple of '80s pop culture.

3. “Everything She Wants” (Wham!, 1985)

Another Wham! banger that perfectly captures the era's synth-pop magic. It reached No.1 on May 25, 1985, for two weeks. The driving bassline and clever storytelling make it a fan favorite.

2. “Faith” (George Michael, 1987)

Michael's longest-running No.1 song. “Faith” arrived on Dec. 12, 1987, and dominated for four weeks. The iconic leather jacket, the guitar riff, the swagger—this track cemented him as a solo superstar.

1. “Careless Whisper” (Wham! featuring George Michael, 1985)

Controversial? We don't care. That saxophone solo drowns out all dissent. “Careless Whisper” hit No.1 on Feb. 16, 1985, and rocked our worlds for three weeks. It's the ultimate guilty pleasure—and the definitive George Michael track.

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