It's a match made in history books – Wham! blazing a trail in China back in 1985. For Andrew Ridgeley, it was more than just a gig; it was life-changing for thousands who witnessed the duo's genre-busting sound up close and personal. As he looks back on those groundbreaking concerts, he's beaming with pride: 'They changed lives,' he says – a testament to the seismic impact of Wham!'s music on an unsuspecting nation.
Arriving in Beijing in April 1985, George Michael and Ridgeley were met with curiosity rather than adoration. It was a far cry from the Beatles' iconic arrival in America, where they were mobbed by fans. At that time, Wham! was relatively unknown in China, but Simon Napier-Bell's masterstroke plan had sparked something much bigger – it was to be a cultural ambassadorship like no other.
A new documentary, 'Wham! 10 Days in China', takes us back to those pivotal days when Western pop music first conquered the Chinese hearts. And what a story unfolds as we delve into remastered footage and heartfelt interviews with fans who were there. They reveal how Wham!'s infectious energy had opened their eyes to new possibilities, inspiring some to pursue careers in music – yes, you read that right!
Ridgeley still can't help but feel a pang of regret: 'It would have meant so much to George' if he'd lived to see the lasting impact of those concerts. Michael himself put it this way in archive footage from the documentary: 'A bit of a nightmare, but an incredible privilege.' The China tour may have ticked the commercial box – with Wham! subsequently rocking out on a US stadium tour just months later – but its true significance lies in how it paved the way for cultural exchange and understanding.
And that's exactly why Ridgeley is still championing the band's legacy. He's ensuring George Michael's spirit remains front and centre through projects like 'Wham!' (on Netflix) and 'Last Christmas Unwrapped' next year – a testament to the duo's enduring vibrancy and vitality, which continues to inspire young people worldwide.