When Last Christmas by Wham! hits the airwaves, you know the festive season is in full swing. First released in 1984, this iconic holiday tune has become a Christmas staple, blending cheerful melodies with lyrics that tug at the heartstrings. But what’s the deeper meaning behind this seemingly upbeat classic?

At its core, Last Christmas is a bittersweet tale of heartbreak set against the backdrop of the holiday season. Written by George Michael, the song recounts the story of someone reflecting on a failed romance. The chorus—“Last Christmas, I gave you my heart, but the very next day, you gave it away”—captures the sting of unreciprocated love. The juxtaposition of its lively melody and melancholy lyrics makes it unique, setting it apart from traditional festive tunes.

Many fans believe the song’s enduring appeal lies in its relatability. The holidays, while joyous, can also amplify feelings of nostalgia and heartache, especially when thinking about lost loves or unfulfilled relationships. George Michael masterfully taps into this duality, creating a song that feels both personal and universal.

Interestingly, the inspiration for Last Christmas reportedly came from a real-life experience. George Michael is said to have channeled his emotions into the lyrics after experiencing his own romantic disappointment. This authenticity resonates with listeners, giving the song an emotional depth that transcends its pop framework.

Beyond its meaning, Last Christmas has made a lasting cultural impact, inspiring countless covers by artists across genres. Yet, the original version remains timeless, a testament to Wham!’s ability to turn personal heartache into a global anthem.

Whether it’s a reminder of love lost or simply a nostalgic holiday bop, Last Christmas continues to be a beloved part of the festive season.

Last Christmas

[Intro]
(Happy Christmas)
Ah, ah-ah
Ooh-woah
Oh-oh

[Chorus]
Last Christmas, I gave you my heart
But the very next day, you gave it away
This year, to save me from tears
I’ll give it to someone special
Last Christmas, I gave you my heart
But the very next day, you gave it away (You gave it away)
This year, to save me from tears
I’ll give it to someone special (Special)

[Verse 1]
Once bitten and twice shy
I keep my distance, but you still catch my eye
Tell me, baby, do you recognise me?
Well, it’s been a year, it doesn’t surprise me
“Happy Christmas,” I wrapped it up and sent it
With a note saying, “I love you,” I meant it
Now I know what a fool I’ve been
But if you kissed me now, I know you’d fool me again

[Chorus]
Last Christmas, I gave you my heart
But the very next day, you gave it away (You gave it away)
This year, to save me from tears
I’ll give it to someone special (Special)
Last Christmas, I gave you my heart
But the very next day, you gave it away
This year, to save me from tears
I’ll give it to someone special (Special, oh)
Oh, oh, baby

[Verse 2]
A crowded room, friends with tired eyes
I’m hiding from you and your soul of ice
My God, I thought you were someone to rely on
Me? I guess I was a shoulder to cry on
A face-on lover with a fire in his heart
A man undercover, but you tore me apart
Ooh-ooh
Now I’ve found a real love, you’ll never fool me again

[Chorus]
Last Christmas, I gave you my heart
But the very next day, you gave it away (You gave it away)
This year, to save me from tears
I’ll give it to someone special (Special)
Last Christmas, I gave you my heart
But the very next day, you gave it away (You gave me away)
This year, to save me from tears
I’ll give it to someone special (Special)
[Verse 3]
A face-on lover with a fire in his heart (I gave you my heart)
A man undercover, but you tore him apart
Maybe next year
I’ll give it to someone, I’ll give it to someone special

[Bridge]
Special
Someone
Someone
I’ll give it to someone, I’ll give it to someone special
Who give me something in return
(I’ll give it to someone, I’ll give it to someone)
Hold my heart and watch it burn
I’ll give it to someone, I’ll give it to someone special
I thought you were here to stay
How could you love me for a day?
I thought you were someone special
I gave you my heart
I’ll give it to someone, I’ll give it to someone

[Chorus]
Last Christmas, I gave you my heart
You gave it away
I’ll give it to someone, I’ll give it to someone
[Outro]
La-la
La-la-la-la-la
La-la
La-la-la-la-la
La-la-la-la-la-la-la
La-la-la-la-la-la-la-la
La-la-la
La-la-la-la-la
La-la-la-la-la
La-la-la-la-la-la-la
La-la-la-la-la-la-la-la