George Michael's 70s-Inspired Hits: A Groovy Deep Dive
Hello there, music lovers! Today, we're diving deep into the groovy world of George Michael and his 70s-inspired hits. You might know him from his chart-topping hits in the 80s and 90s, but did you know that the Wham! frontman and solo artist was heavily influenced by the disco and funk era of the 70s? Let's put on our dancing shoes and explore this fascinating side of George Michael's music. Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and george michael 70s.
The 70s Influence: A Love Affair with Disco and Funk
Before George Michael became a global superstar, he was a kid growing up in London in the 70s. He was deeply influenced by the vibrant music scene of that era, with artists like Donna Summer, The Bee Gees, and Earth, Wind & Fire leaving an indelible mark on his musical tastes. This love affair with 70s disco and funk would later translate into some of his most iconic tracks.
George Michael once said, "I grew up listening to a lot of soul and disco. That's where my love for music comes from." And boy, did he pay homage to his musical roots!
Wham! and the 70s Nostalgia
While Wham! was a product of the 80s, their music was heavily influenced by the 70s. Let's take a look at some of their tracks that ooze 70s disco and funk vibes.
Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go (1984)
Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go is perhaps the most 70s-inspired track by Wham!. With its infectious disco beat, handclaps, and call-and-response vocals, this song is a love letter to the 70s. The track even samples K.C. and the Sunshine Band's "Boogie Wonderland" to drive the point home.
Young Guns (Go for It!) (1983)
Young Guns (Go for It!) is another Wham! track that harks back to the 70s. The song's funky bassline, horn section, and George Michael's falsetto vocals are all reminiscent of the 70s soul and funk scene.
George Michael's Solo Career: Keeping the 70s Spirit Alive
After Wham! disbanded, George Michael continued to draw inspiration from the 70s in his solo career. Here are a few examples:
Faith (1987)
Faith, the title track of George Michael's debut solo album, is a prime example of his 70s influences. The song's funky guitar riff and driving rhythm are straight out of the 70s, while the horn section and backing vocals harken back to the disco era.
I Want Your Sex (1987)
I Want Your Sex is another 70s-inspired track from George Michael's solo career. The song's bassline and drum pattern are reminiscent of 70s funk, while the horn section and backing vocals add to the disco feel.
Fastlove (1996)
Fastlove might be a 90s track, but it's got 70s written all over it. The song's funky bassline, staccato guitar riff, and call-and-response vocals are all nods to the 70s soul and funk scene.
George Michael's 70s-Inspired Covers
George Michael also paid tribute to his 70s influences by covering some of the era's iconic tracks. Here are a couple of standouts:
Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me (1986)
Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me is a 70s classic by Elton John. George Michael covered this track as a duet with Elton John in 1986, bringing the song's 70s soul vibes to a new generation.
Somebody to Love (1992)
George Michael's cover of Queen's Somebody to Love for the Bohemian Rhapsody soundtrack is another example of his 70s influences. While the original is a 70s classic, George Michael's version stays true to the spirit of the original while adding his own 70s-inspired touches.
George Michael's Legacy: A Love Affair with the 70s
George Michael's love affair with the 70s is evident throughout his career. From his time with Wham! to his solo career, he consistently paid homage to the disco and funk era that shaped his musical tastes.
So, there you have it, folks! A groovy deep dive into George Michael's 70s-inspired hits. Next time you're jamming to Faith or Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go, remember that you're listening to a love letter to the 70s**. Until next time, keep on dancing!