Eighties pop icon Limahl, whose hit 'The NeverEnding Story' found a new generation of fans through Netflix's Stranger Things, has marked his musical return with a festive release. The singer has put out a reimagined version of his only Christmas song, 'One Wish For Christmas', his first new music in over five years.
From Wigan to Worldwide Fame
The 63-year-old Wigan native, whose real name is Christopher Hamill, first found fame as the frontman of Kajagoogoo before launching a successful solo career. His defining moment came with the title track for the 1984 film The NeverEnding Story, which grossed $100 million in the United States.
That song was given a spectacular second life in 2019 when it featured in the climactic battle of Stranger Things Season 3. In a now-iconic split-screen sequence, characters Dustin and Suzie performed a full duet, much to the exasperation of their friends.
A Record-Breaking Show and a Festive Revival
The synergy between the classic song and the hit series continues. The show's fifth season has broken viewing records, achieving a staggering 59.6 million views in its first five days. Limahl's festive single, a reworking of the 70s classic 'A Horse With No Name', capitalises on this renewed spotlight.
Speaking about the Stranger Things feature, Limahl said it was "absolutely brilliant." He noted, "The songs have got their own life now, and occasionally nice things happen." His other major hit, 'Too Shy', has also seen enduring popularity, featuring in films like Adam Sandler's The Wedding Singer.
Magic, Memories, and a Comic Relief Comeback
Discussing the inspiration behind his Christmas release, Limahl reflected on his childhood in Wigan. "Growing up in Wigan with two older brothers and a younger sister, Christmas was pure magic," he shared. Despite having "very little money," he recalls the excitement of festive mornings and decking the halls.
The chorus of his new song captures this sentiment: "December is that time of year, where memories become souvenirs." The singer recently returned to the public eye on this year's Comic Relief for the BBC, performing 'Too Shy' live to help raise £34 million to combat poverty.
Limahl, who also had a memorable stint on I'm A Celebrity... in 2012, is now enjoying his music's extended legacy. 'One Wish For Christmas' is out now under his own Christopher Music label.
