Last Christmas by Wham! tops vote for song to mark start of festive season
Wham!'s "Last Christmas" has claimed the top spot in a survey asking British folks about their favorite holiday song to start the festive season.
The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO) conducted a survey with 2,000 adults, asking them for their favorite songs or pieces of music that they turn to when celebrating the beginning of the holiday season this year.
The iconic duo of George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley topped the charts with their hit song, with 40% of respondents choosing the 1980s ballad "Last Christmas" as their favorite.
In second place in the poll were the Anglo-Irish punk band The Pogues with their popular song, "Fairytale Of New York," along with the British rock group Wizzard's "I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday," both receiving 36% of the votes.
In third place was "All I Want for Christmas Is You" by American artist Mariah Carey. Meanwhile, "Silent Night," "It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas" by Canadian singer Michael Bublé, and Band Aid's "Do They Know It’s Christmas" all shared the fourth spot.
The following position on the list was taken by the timeless tune "White Christmas," performed by American singer and actor Bing Crosby.
The lineup also included works like Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker Suite, Shakin' Stevens' Merry Christmas Everyone, and John and Yoko with the Plastic Ono Band's Happy Xmas (War Is Over). In addition, classic carols such as Away In A Manger, Once In Royal David's City, O Holy Night, and O Come, All Ye Faithful were part of the mix.
The most popular five songs were quite similar among fans of orchestral music, with Wham! taking the number one spot. The other tracks also made it onto their list of favorites.
Huw Davies, the assistant managing director at the RPO, mentioned: “For many years, December has represented a season when rock and pop artists throughout the UK aim to achieve the highly sought-after Christmas number one spot in the music charts.”
"Our survey on the most beloved Christmas songs highlights the lasting charm of hymns and choral music, which hold a special significance for many individuals."
Actually, the rise in popularity of Christmas music in the choral and classical styles occurs during a season when interest in classical music is at its highest point of the year.
“Our study shows that 83% of adults in the UK plan to experience classical and choral music in some way this December. Interestingly, many individuals who don't usually listen to this type of music feel that the Christmas season is the perfect opportunity to try it out.”
Last year, Wham! achieved their first Christmas number one with their holiday classic, nearly four decades after it was first released.
The song, which was initially launched in December 1984, is well-known for being outperformed that same year by the charity hit Do They Know It’s Christmas?
– The RPO's list of the top 10:
1. Last Christmas – Wham! This holiday classic by Wham! has become a staple during the festive season. The song tells a poignant story of lost love and heartfelt memories associated with Christmas. Its catchy melody and relatable lyrics resonate with many, making it a favorite that continues to be played year after year.
2. "Fairytale of New York" by The Pogues, featuring Kirsty MacColl, and "I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday" by Wizzard.
3. The One Gift I Desire for Christmas Is You – Mariah Carey
4. "Silent Night," "It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas" by Michael Bublé, and "Do They Know It’s Christmas" by Band Aid.
5. Bing Crosby's "White Christmas" This classic holiday song by Bing Crosby captures the dreamy essence of a snowy Christmas. Its nostalgic melody and heartfelt lyrics evoke feelings of warmth and togetherness during the festive season. The imagery of a white Christmas, with glistening snow and cozy interiors, makes it a beloved favorite that many people look forward to each year.
6. When You Arrive in Royal David’s Town
7. Joyful Christmas to All – Shakin' Stevens
8. O Sacred Night
9. "O Come, All Ye Faithful," "Happy Xmas (War Is Over)" by John and Yoko with the Plastic Ono Band, and "Away In A Manger."
10. The Nutcracker Suite – composed by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky.
