Retro Review: Wham - Make It Big

Wham's second album, "Make It Big," released in 1984, propelled the duo to superstardom around the world. The album combined catchy pop hooks with danceable beats and showcased the talented songwriting and singing of George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley. Here's a closer look at this classic album and some of its standout tracks.

"Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go"

This song was the lead single from the album and became a massive hit around the world. Its infectious melody and upbeat lyrics made it an instant classic, and it remains one of the band's most recognizable songs to this day.

"Everything She Wants"

"Everything She Wants" was the second single from the album and also a huge hit. The song's driving beat and catchy chorus made it an instant dancefloor favorite, and it showcased Wham's versatility as a pop act.

"Careless Whisper"

Although it wasn't technically part of the "Make It Big" album, "Careless Whisper" was released as a single around the same time and ended up being one of Wham's biggest hits. George Michael's soulful vocals and the song's saxophone riff made it an instant classic, and it remains a staple of '80s pop to this day.

"Freedom"

"Freedom" was another of the album's standout tracks, with its catchy chorus and positive message. The song's upbeat tempo and soaring vocals made it a favorite with fans, and it remains a beloved track in the Wham canon.

Overall, "Make It Big" was a breakthrough album that cemented Wham's status as one of the most popular acts of the '80s. With its catchy, upbeat tracks and infectious energy, the album remains a classic of the era and a testament to the talents of George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley. 

80s Music: An Introduction

The 1980s was a time of transformation and innovation in music. The decade saw the rise of new technology like the synthesizer, MTV, and the music video, which gave birth to new sub-genres and sounds. From pop to rock to new wave, the 80s had something for everyone. So what made 80s music so special?

One of the defining characteristics of 80s music was its emphasis on image and style. Bands like Duran Duran, Culture Club, and Wham! created iconic looks that became as famous as their music. But it wasn't just about the look - the music itself was also experimental and boundary-pushing. Synthpop acts like Depeche Mode and New Order blended electronic soundscapes with emotionally-charged lyrics, while rock stars like Guns N' Roses and Bon Jovi pushed the limits of excess and power ballads.

Another defining feature of 80s music was its accessibility. With the introduction of MTV and music videos, the visual element of music became just as important as the audio. This opened up new avenues for artists to connect with audiences and allowed viewers to experience music in a way that was more engaging and immersive than ever before.

The 80s also saw the emergence of superstar icons like Michael Jackson and Madonna, who dominated not just the charts, but also pop culture as a whole. Their music and performances were groundbreaking and paved the way for generations of artists to come.

Today, 80s music remains beloved by audiences of all ages. From retro parties to bars playing "80s night" playlists, it's clear that the music has stood the test of time. And with popular music drawing from the era for inspiration, it seems that the legacy of 80s music will continue to influence the sounds of tomorrow.