About this album
Where they were
By the time 'Ladies & Gentlemen – The Best of George Michael' was released in December 1998, George Michael was already a global superstar. This compilation followed his successful solo career after leaving Wham! and included hits from his previous albums like 'Faith' (1987) and 'Older' (1996), marking a reflective moment in his artistic journey.
Why it matters
'Ladies & Gentlemen' achieved critical acclaim and commercial success, debuting at number one in several countries and solidifying Michael's stature as a pop icon. The album encapsulates his evolution as an artist while highlighting pivotal tracks that influenced the adult contemporary and pop genres, earning him multiple award nominations.
Essential tracks
- "Careless Whisper" — This iconic single features a haunting saxophone riff and deeply emotive lyrics about heartbreak, showcasing Michael's lyrical prowess.
- "Freedom! '90" — An anthem of liberation, this track reflects Michael's desire for creative autonomy and became a defining song of the 90s.
- "Jesus to a Child" — This tender ballad highlights Michael's ability to convey deep emotion through melody and lyricism, representing his mature sound.
- "Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me" — A powerful duet with Elton John, this track exemplifies vulnerability and showcases their vocal chemistry, resonating with audiences worldwide.
- "Faith" — The title track from his debut solo album, it combines rock and pop elements, establishing a sound that defined Michael's early solo career.
Release Date
December 1, 1998
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Tracklist
Disc 1
- 1 Jesus to a Child 6:52
- 2 Father Figure 5:41
- 3 Careless Whisper 5:00
- 4 Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me 5:49
- 5 You Have Been Loved 5:30
- 6 Kissing a Fool 4:35
- 7 I Can’t Make You Love Me 5:22
- 8 Heal the Pain 4:47
- 9 A Moment With You 5:43
- 10 Desafinado 3:21
- 11 Cowboys and Angels 7:15
- 12 Praying for Time 4:44
- 13 One More Try 5:54
- 14 A Different Corner 4:01
Disc 2
- 1 Outside 4:45
- 2 Fastlove 5:30
- 3 Too Funky 3:45
- 4 Freedom 90 6:29
- 5 Star People 97 5:38
- 6 Killer / Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone 4:16
- 7 I Want Your Sex, Part II 4:37
- 8 Monkey 4:46
- 9 Spinning the Wheel 6:08
- 10 Waiting for That Day / You Can’t Always Get What You Want 4:50
- 11 I Knew You Were Waiting (for Me) 3:58
- 12 Hard Day 4:54
- 13 Faith 4:13
- 14 Somebody to Love 5:23