The Holiday season belongs to George Michael. There are numerous reasons that confirm this. The beloved global icon passed away suddenly on Christmas Day 2016. The song Last Christmas is one of the most recognizable record’s you will hear during the Holiday Season. It’s almost criminal that the song has never been number one in the U.K. on Christmas Day. That needs to change this year and there is no better time than now.
We can also add another reason to my theory. With the film Last Christmas set to be released on November 8, 2019 in the United States and Canada and on November 15, 2019 in the U.K., the film’s title and theme comes directly from the Wham! smash hit. In fact, one of the stars of the film, Emma Thompson approached Michael in the spring of 2013 to talk about the idea of the film and the use of his music throughout. Now, that conversation is a reality.
But we’re not finished yet. One of the songs to be featured in the movie is an unreleased track from late songwriter. Today, we have been given the gift of a new song from the musical genius, George Michael. The song This Is How (We Want You To Get High) is four and a half minute funky, rhythmic, groovy track and is seemingly an instant hit. The song was subsequently developed and recorded in sessions at Air Studios in London, before the finishing touches were added in late 2015 during George’s final recording sessions. I love the way the song intros and finishes in the same way, “It’s hard to be more than we’ve seen.” Haunting words from this amazing songwriter.
Vocally, his voice sounds as strong as it ever has. The track still has those breathy tones he became famous for and he flows in and out of verses with quickness. In short, he flashes that wonderful vocal tone on longer phrases and cleverly mixes through words, getting his lyrical point across. But don’t let the upbeat nature of the song fool you, this is a song with a serious topic. Something we’ve seen Michael write about in the past. The lyrics, written exclusively by George, see the star addressing society’s ills with his trademark blend of self-deprecation and wry humor. Take a peak at the lyric video below and you will immediately see the songs strong lyrical content.
So this Holiday Season we’ll have a few things to remind us of how special George Michael was as an artist and songwriter. With the film’s release and this catchy new song, here’s hoping that he takes his place at number one this Christmas Day in his native London, England. This certainly won’t be the last Christmas we think about George but no there’s no better time than now to celebrate his memory.
-Tommy Marz
You can follow Tommy on Twitter and let him know what you think.
For More On George Michael, Visit: