Careless Whisper
George Michael · Champs-Élysées Volume 2 [2011]
As I take your hand
And lead you to the dance floor
As the music dies
Something in your eyes
Calls to mind a silver screen
And all it's sad good-byes
I'm never gonna dance again
Guilty feet have got no rhythm
Though it's easy to pretend
I know you're not a fool
Should've known better than to cheat a friend
And waste the chance that I'd been given
So I'm never gonna dance again
The way I danced with you
Time can never mend
The careless whispers
Of a good friend
To the heart and mind
Ignorance is kind
There's no comfort in the truth
Pain is all you'll find
I'm never gonna dance again
Guilty feet have got no rhythm
Though it's easy to pretend
I know you're not a fool
Should've known better than to cheat a friend
And waste the chance that I'd been given
So I'm never gonna dance again
The way I danced with you
Never without your love
Tonight the music seems so loud
I wish that we could lose this crowd
Maybe it's better this way
We'd hurt each other with the things we'd want to say
We could have been so good together
We could have lived this dance forever
But now who's gonna dance with me
Please stay
And I'm never gonna dance again
Guilty feet have got no rhythm
Though it's easy to pretend
I know you're not a fool
Should've known better than to cheat a friend
And waste the chance that I'd been given
So I'm never gonna dance again
The way I danced with you
Now that you're gone
Now that you're gone
Now that you're gone
Was what I did so wrong, so wrong
That you had to leave me alone
Careless Whisper
Released in 1984, Careless Whisper stands as one of George Michael's most enduring solo achievements, marking a pivotal moment in his transition from pop star to serious artist. The track is instantly recognizable by its iconic saxophone riff, a sound that became synonymous with Michael's early solo identity. While often associated with his debut album, the song originally appeared as a single before being integrated into his broader discography. Its smooth R&B and pop fusion helped define the mid-80s soundscape, showcasing Michael's songwriting maturity beyond his previous work with Wham!. The recording remains a staple of adult contemporary radio, celebrated for its emotional depth and sophisticated production. As a cornerstone of his catalogue, it continues to resonate with listeners worldwide, cementing Michael's legacy as a master of pop balladry.