The Crate
Wham!
Fantastic
1. Chart Success: The album was a commercial success, reaching number one on the UK Albums Chart. It sold over a million copies in the UK alone.
2. Hit Singles: "Fantastic" spawned several hit singles, including "Young Guns (Go for It!)", "Wham Rap! (Enjoy What You Do)", "Club Tropicana", and "Bad Boys". These tracks helped establish Wham! as one of the leading pop acts of the 1980s.
3. Political Edge: Unlike their later work, "Fantastic" had a noticeable political edge. Songs like "Wham Rap! (Enjoy What You Do)" and "Young Guns (Go for It!)" tackled subjects like unemployment and youthful rebellion, reflecting the socio-economic climate of early 1980s Britain.
4. Fashion Icons: The era of "Fantastic" also saw the members of Wham!, George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley, becoming fashion icons. Their sporty and stylish image was influential, with George Michael's fingerless gloves and Ridgeley's leather outfits becoming particularly iconic.
5. Production Team: The album was produced by Steve Brown and George Michael himself, showcasing Michael's early talent not just as a performer but also as a songwriter and producer.
6. Critical Reception: While "Fantastic" received mixed reviews from critics, it was lauded for its infectious energy and catchy pop hooks. The album's exuberance and appeal to youthful audiences were highly noted.
7. Legacy: Despite being overshadowed by the monumental success of their later album "Make It Big" (1984), "Fantastic" remains a significant release in the history of 80s pop music, marking the early blossoming of George Michael's legendary career.
8. Album Artwork: The cover features George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley posing against a stark white background, wearing leather jackets and jeans — a look that became synonymous with the band's image during that era.
"Fantastic" is an essential listen for fans of 80s pop, offering a glimpse into the early days of one of pop music's most beloved duos.