Wham! – “Wham Rap! (Enjoy What You Do)”

“Wham Rap! (Enjoy What You Do)” is the debut single by the British pop duo Wham!, released in 1982. Written by George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley, the song stands out as one of the first UK pop tracks to feature rap elements. It marked the beginning of Wham!’s rise to fame and laid the foundation for their future success as 1980s pop icons.

Musically, “Wham Rap!” blends catchy pop melodies with funk, soul, and hip-hop influences. The song is driven by an upbeat rhythm, funky bassline, and energetic rap verses delivered by George Michael. The track’s innovative fusion of rap with pop sensibilities was ahead of its time, giving Wham! a unique sound that set them apart from other British acts of the early ’80s.

Lyrically, “Wham Rap!” delivers a bold, carefree message of enjoying life, rejecting societal pressures to conform, and celebrating youth and freedom. The song’s chorus, “Hey, everybody, take a look at me / I’ve got street credibility,” reflects a rebellious attitude, while the verses criticize the conventional 9-to-5 lifestyle. It encourages people to embrace individuality and enjoy life, even if it means going against the grain.

The track was part of Wham!’s image as a fun-loving, carefree duo who challenged societal norms and brought a sense of youthful exuberance to their music. It connected with audiences who resonated with the message of freedom, fun, and not taking life too seriously.

Though “Wham Rap!” didn’t achieve massive success initially, it became a club hit and laid the groundwork for Wham!’s future chart-topping singles like “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” and “Careless Whisper.” The song’s blend of rap and pop, combined with its upbeat, rebellious message, made it an iconic entry in Wham!’s early career and helped to define their playful, energetic style.