Orlando Artist Craymo Releases Contemporary Take on Wham!’s Iconic 'Last Christmas'

Few holiday songs have left as lasting an imprint on pop culture as Wham!’s “Last Christmas.” Since its release in 1984, the George Michael-penned hit has transcended generations with its bittersweet mix of heartbreak and seasonal cheer. Its combination of tender melody, shimmering synths, and emotional resonance has made it a December staple across decades and genres. With his new version, Orlando-based artist Craymo honors that timeless legacy while reimagining it for the modern dance floor.

Craymo approaches the track with both reverence and reinvention, keeping its melodic heart intact while injecting it with the kinetic energy of club-ready pop. The result is a version that preserves the warmth and nostalgia of the original while pulsing with the rhythm and sheen of contemporary production.

Craymo’s interpretation thrives on contrast. The vocal delivery carries a sense of longing that echoes the original’s melancholic tone, yet the arrangement transforms that emotion into celebration. Synth basslines, driving percussion, and polished production give the song a sense of momentum that feels both familiar and new. It’s as if the quiet ache of George Michael’s original has been reframed through the lens of unity and joy, turning a private confession into a shared experience under the disco lights.

This release also reflects Craymo’s evolution as a songwriter and performer. Having built a reputation for creating infectious, heartfelt pop and dance music, he approaches “Last Christmas” with the precision of a seasoned producer and the enthusiasm of a lifelong fan. His background as a DJ clearly informs the song’s structure, which balances emotional build-ups with satisfying drops, keeping the dance floor energy consistent while respecting the song’s emotional core.

In many ways, this cover of “Last Christmas” feels like a culmination of these achievements: a synthesis of Craymo’s influences, skills, and artistic identity. Drawing inspiration from artists such as George Michael, Robbie Williams, Niall Horan, Olly Murs, and Simon LeBon, he channels the charismatic confidence of classic pop performers while maintaining his distinct creative voice.

Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/4MSwSMZ1kunvzOm3rLQh8d?si=kIqxa-qgTS6rt3CivH8rCg

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/craymomusic

Website: https://craymo.supertape.site/

Craymo (real name Craig Raymo) is an award-winning LGBTQ electronic pop singer-songwriter and producer from Orlando, Florida. Known for his positive, upbeat music with messages of unity, equality, and social change, he has won numerous international songwriting and music awards and has had his songs featured in films and television shows. 

Career Overview

    Early Career & "Star Search": Originally from upstate New York, Craymo moved to Los Angeles to pursue music and acting. He gained national attention as a male vocalist on Star Search '89 with Ed McMahon.
    Musical Style and Influences: His music is a blend of pop, dance, modern rock, and electronic music, often featuring catchy hooks and textured harmonies. He is heavily influenced by 70s and 80s icons such as Duran Duran, George Michael, David Bowie, Morrissey, and The Beatles.
    Notable Work: His world peace anthem, "One Love, One World," was featured on a United Nations website and taught to students by teachers all over the world. He has also released the EP Love Power, a collection of songs about various forms of love.
    Awards and Recognition: Craymo has been a winner, semi-finalist, and finalist in numerous competitions, including the Indie Music Channel Awards, Clouzine International Music Awards, and the USA Songwriting Competition. His song "December Rain (Carol of Love)," released in memory of his mother, won multiple awards.
    Film & TV Placements: His music has been licensed in various indie films (e.g., Miss Castaway, Moral Combat) and television shows (e.g., The Mysteries of Laura on NBC, Toddlers and Tiaras on TLC, The X Games on ESPN and Moral Enemies on TUBI (2024)

Recent Activity

In 2025, Craymo released the singles "Love Together" and "Tear Me Apart," both of which earned multiple nominations and awards in various music competitions. He continues to record and release music, focusing on themes of hope and unity, and recently released a contemporary cover of Wham!’s "Last Christmas". 

For more information and updates, you can follow his work via his Indie Music Channel profile or on Spotify and Instagram.