#151 of 500
· Rolling Stone
“Deep enough in the list to separate casual fans from serious collectors. George Michael brought everything to Faith (1987) — the kind of record that reminds you why you started collecting vinyl in the first place. The original pressing does it justice.”
George Michael (1987-2016) rose to international prominence as the primary songwriter and vocalist of Wham!, the duo that dominated the 1980s pop charts with infectious hits like 'Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go' and 'Careless Whisper.' Following Wham!'s 1986 dissolution, Michael pursued a sophisticated solo career, achieving massive critical and commercial success with his 1987 debut album 'Faith,' which showcased his evolution toward soul and R&B influences. Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, he continued recording and performing, with notable albums including 'Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1' (1990) and 'Older' (1996), while also becoming known for his philanthropic work and advocacy. His career spanned multiple decades, during which he demonstrated remarkable artistic growth and versatility.
Style
George Michael's work spans pop, soul, and R&B, characterized by his distinctive soulful vocals, sophisticated production arrangements, and thoughtful songwriting. His sound evolved from Wham!'s upbeat synth-pop toward more mature, emotionally resonant soul-influenced material.
Significance
George Michael is a cornerstone artist for vinyl collectors interested in 1980s-90s pop and soul music, with his albums representing pivotal moments in the era's sonic development. His vinyl releases, particularly 'Faith' and 'Older,' remain highly sought-after for their production quality and cultural impact.
Faith, George Michael's debut solo album, was recorded primarily at studios in Los Angeles between 1986 and 1987, following his departure from Wham!. Michael took creative control as both artist and primary songwriter, exploring a more mature, sophisticated sound than his previous work. The album blended soul, funk, and pop influences, with production from Narada Michael Walden on several tracks. Michael collaborated with various musicians including session players and producers like David Foster, though he maintained tight control over the creative direction. The title track, "Faith," became the album's lead single and was accompanied by a groundbreaking music video shot in black and white with Michael in a leather jacket, deliberately subverting his previous pop image.
Historical Context
Released in October 1987, Faith arrived at a pivotal moment when pop music was embracing more experimental and R&B-influenced sounds. The album was a commercial and critical triumph, establishing Michael as a serious solo artist beyond the teen-pop context of Wham!. It resonated with audiences seeking sophisticated pop that acknowledged soul and funk traditions. The album topped charts globally and won the Grammy Award for Album of the Year in 1989, helping to legitimize pop music during a decade dominated by synth-pop and dance music. Its success demonstrated the market appetite for emotionally mature, well-crafted pop albums.
Pressing Notes
Faith was released on Columbia Records in multiple formats. The original 1987 vinyl pressing featured the complete album with detailed liner notes and photographs. Subsequent pressings include 1990s reissues and more recent audiophile remastered vinyl editions from Mobile Fidelity Sound Lab and other specialist labels. The album has been reissued multiple times, particularly following Michael's death in 2016. Collectors should seek original first pressings from 1987 for historical interest, though later audiophile pressings offer superior sound quality. The album's extended play on vinyl showcases the production quality of the original sessions effectively.
Rapture
Anita Baker
Features lush, sophisticated soul-pop sensibilities with rich production and emotional depth similar to Faith's introspective moments.
Sign O' the Times
Prince
Combines 80s funk-pop innovation with introspective lyrics and genre-blending production that parallels George Michael's artistic ambitions.
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