Morning Edition

35 years since ‘Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go’ ruled the Hot 100

Wham! was No. 1 on the Billboard pop chart 35 years ago with “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go.”

In his new memoir, band member Andrew Ridgeley describes the inspiration for the song as a note he stuck on his parents' fridge one night before going to bed. The note asked his mom to "wake me up up before you go go." The song George Michael eventually wrote using that line would became the band's biggest hit.

Dear reader,

Your voice matters. And we want to hear it.

Will you help shape the future of Minnesota Public Radio by taking our short Listener Survey?

It only takes a few minutes, and your input helps us serve you better—whether it’s news, culture, or the conversations that matter most to Minnesotans.

Volume Button
Volume
Now Listening To Livestream
MPR News logo
On Air
BBC World Service

Has MPR News kept you informed, inspired, or better connected to your community?

If so, would you consider a gift of $15 today? Your support powers fact-based journalism, thoughtful conversations, and the stories that matter to Minnesotans. Together, we can keep public media strong—free and accessible for everyone.