George Michael‘s classic hit Careless Whisper has been voted the most loved song of all time by Smooth Radio listeners.

The 1984 tune, penned by Wham! stars George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley, topped the All Time Top 500 for 2021 poll for the third consecutive year – fourth in total – following the recent fan vote.

“We are once again bowled over to hear the amazing news that, for the third year running, Careless Whisper has been voted number one in Smooth’s All Time Top 500, in 2021,” said Michael’s sister, Yioda Panayiotou, and Chris Organ.

“To know that George’s music continues to be loved by his fans and lovelies all over the world means everything to us, as it would have done to George.”

Additionally, the Faith singer is the best-loved artist in the rundown with a total of 17 hits making the Top 500 chart. Meanwhile, Elton John follows close behind with 16 entries and Whitney Houston is the top female with 13 songs – followed by Madonna (eight) and Adele.

Dolly Parton is the highest-placed female artist, at No. 10, with Islands in the Stream, her duet with Kenny Rogers. 

Meanwhile, with five brand-new songs due to be released this year, plus a forthcoming hologram tour, ABBA has been voted the most popular band of all time

Smooth presenter Jenni Falconer said: “Smooth’s All Time Top 500 gives us an insight into the nation’s favourite songs that have become the soundtracks to our lives over the past 12 months.

In what’s been an unprecedented year, the popularity of those timeless and familiar songs remains ever strong, as people turn to the music they know and love.

“Our listeners tell us that Smooth continues to be a sanctuary and oasis amid the busy news agenda, so it’s testament to the enduring power of music from world artists such as George Michael, Whitney Houston and Sir Elton John that they continue to hold such an important place in the nation’s hearts.”