Full Breakdown
Wham!'s "Last Christmas" Tops Billboard Global 200, Surpassing Mariah Carey's Classic
12/19/2025, 11:15:41 AM
Wham!'s Historic Chart Achievement
On December 18, 2025, Wham!'s 1984 holiday classic "Last Christmas" reached the No. 1 position on the Billboard Global 200 chart, marking a significant moment in music history. This achievement comes as Mariah Carey's 1994 hit "All I Want for Christmas Is You," which has dominated the chart since its inception in 2020, fell to the second spot. This is the first time since the Global 200's launch that a Christmas song other than Carey's has topped the chart.
Background on the Songs
"Last Christmas," written by George Michael, tells a poignant story of heartbreak during the holiday season. The song has gained renewed popularity over the years, resonating with both long-time fans and new listeners. In contrast, Carey's "All I Want for Christmas Is You" has become a staple of the holiday season, known for its catchy melody and festive spirit. The song has achieved a record total of 19 weeks at No. 1 on the Global 200 since 2020 and remains the most-streamed holiday track of all time.
Official Statements & Responses
Andrew Ridgeley, a member of Wham!, expressed his delight at the song's success, stating, "This is a remarkable moment for me, Wham!, and George Michael." He emphasized the joy of seeing "Last Christmas" resonate with audiences worldwide. Meanwhile, George Michael's team noted that he would have cherished this achievement, highlighting his love for Christmas.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite Wham!'s success, Mariah Carey's song continues to dominate radio airplay and festive playlists globally. Critics argue that while "Last Christmas" has achieved a significant milestone, Carey's classic remains the quintessential holiday anthem, with millions in royalties generated annually. Estimates suggest Carey earns between $2.5 to $3 million each year from her song, underscoring its enduring popularity.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Wham!'s "Last Christmas" has reached the top of the Global 200, it is essential to note that Carey’s "All I Want for Christmas Is You" continues to lead in other metrics, such as radio play and overall cultural impact. This discrepancy highlights the multifaceted nature of music popularity, where chart positions do not always reflect broader audience engagement.
What's Next
As the holiday season progresses, both songs are expected to remain prominent in the charts, with fans eagerly anticipating how they will perform in the coming weeks. The ongoing rivalry between these two iconic holiday tracks will likely continue to spark discussions among music enthusiasts and industry analysts alike.
