This month sees the 34th anniversary of “Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1″, which was released in September 1990. It arguably marked a pivotal moment in George Michael’s career, showcasing a significant shift from the pop-friendly sounds of his earlier work, particularly Faith (1987). George seemed to distance himself from the image of a pop star created during his time with Wham! and his solo debut, striving for artistic credibility and more personal expression. The album’s title itself suggests a plea for the audience to engage with the music on its own merits, without preconceptions about George’s persona. It is largely introspective, featuring deeply personal themes, and the singer made a conscious decision to downplay his visual presence, opting not to appear in most of the album’s music videos.
Musically, Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1 blends pop, soul, jazz, and acoustic elements, reflecting George’s diverse influences and maturity as a songwriter. Tracks like “Praying for Time,” with its haunting social commentary, and “Cowboys and Angels,” with its intricate jazz arrangement, demonstrate the album’s depth. The lead single, “Praying for Time,” touches on inequality, poverty, and suffering in the world, making it a bold, socially conscious statement. This was a contrast to the dance-pop hits for which he had become famous. The album’s introspective and somber mood challenged the expectations of fans and critics alike, showing George’s desire to create music with more substance and emotional weight.
One of the most iconic moments from the album was the song “Freedom! ’90,” which became both a personal anthem and a cultural statement. The song dealt with George’s frustration with his fame and the commodification of his image, with lyrics expressing his desire to break free from the expectations imposed by the music industry. The accompanying music video famously did not feature George himself but instead starred supermodels lip-syncing to the song, further emphasizing his decision to reject the pop-star persona. The video became iconic in its own right, symbolising the era’s intersection of music, fashion, and celebrity.
Critically, Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1 received widespread acclaim for its depth and artistry, though it did not reach the commercial heights of Faith in the United States. However, in the UK and Europe, it was highly successful, solidifying George’s reputation as a serious artist. The album’s introspective nature and its departure from the commercial pop formula may have alienated some listeners, but it resonated with others who appreciated its boldness and honesty. Songs like “Waiting for That Day” and “Heal the Pain” highlighted George’s ability to blend poignant lyrics with catchy melodies, cementing his place as a talented songwriter capable of creating both thoughtful and accessible music.
Despite the initial success and critical praise, Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1 is often remembered in the context of George Michael’s legal battle with his record label, Sony Music. Disagreements over the promotion of the album led George to sue Sony, claiming the label had not supported the project adequately. This legal struggle overshadowed the release of Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 2, which was ultimately scrapped. However, over time, the album has come to be appreciated as one of George’s finest works, a testament to his artistic integrity and refusal to compromise his vision for commercial gain. Its legacy endures as a powerful statement of creative independence.
The Celebrating George Michael Team
Always celebrating the life & music of George Michael.