Make It Big (1984) - Wham!


Make It Big by Wham!, released in 1984, is a vibrant pop album that cemented the duo’s place as one of the defining acts of the 1980s. With its infectious melodies, heartfelt ballads, and slick production, the album captures the optimism and energy of the decade while showcasing George Michael’s emerging prowess as a songwriter and vocalist. A mix of danceable anthems and tender love songs, Make It Big catapulted Wham! to global superstardom.

Tracklist:

  1. Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go
  2. Everything She Wants
  3. Heartbeat
  4. Like a Baby
  5. Freedom
  6. If You Were There
  7. Credit Card Baby
  8. Careless Whisper

Make It Big kicks off with Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go, an unforgettable hit with its cheerful melody, peppy rhythm, and irresistible hooks. This iconic song became an anthem of joy and remains one of Wham!’s signature tracks.

Everything She Wants takes a darker turn, exploring themes of dissatisfaction and sacrifice in relationships. Its groovy bassline and layered production make it a standout track that balances pop sensibility with emotional depth.

Heartbeat is a tender love song with smooth rhythms and heartfelt vocals, contrasting beautifully with the high-energy tracks. Like a Baby, meanwhile, delivers a soft, introspective ballad, showcasing George Michael’s talent for emotional storytelling.

Freedom is an upbeat anthem of self-expression and liberation, driven by a pulsating beat and a soaring chorus. It captures the spirit of Wham!’s carefree and confident persona. If You Were There brings a funky edge to the album, while Credit Card Baby injects playful humor with its jazzy, tongue-in-cheek commentary on materialism.

The album concludes with Careless Whisper, arguably one of the greatest ballads of all time. With its iconic saxophone riff and heartfelt lyrics of guilt and regret, this timeless classic set a new standard for pop ballads and remains an enduring masterpiece.

Make It Big is the epitome of 1980s pop perfection. Its blend of infectious energy, thoughtful lyricism, and diverse styles keeps it fresh and engaging even decades later. My favorite tracks include Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go, for its sheer exuberance; Everything She Wants, for its emotional depth; and Careless Whisper, for its timeless elegance and vulnerability.

This album not only defined Wham!’s career but also laid the foundation for George Michael’s transition into a legendary solo artist. Make It Big is a joyous celebration of pop music at its finest, a record that continues to bring smiles to listeners worldwide.

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