Andrew Ridgeley Reflects on Wham!'s Historic 1985 Tour in China

London, United Kingdom Jul 27, 2026 ALN: Andrew Ridgeley, one half of the iconic duo Wham!, recently opened up about their surreal trip to China in 1985, marking a pivotal moment in music history as they became the first western pop act to perform in the country. The experience, filled with cultural contrasts and unexpected challenges, is now the subject of a new documentary titled Wham! 10 Days in China.

During their visit, Ridgeley and his partner George Michael stood out with their flamboyant hairstyles and outfits, contrasting sharply with the traditional Mao jackets worn by the local populace. Ridgeley recalls the initial skepticism surrounding their tour, stating, "When the idea was originally proposed to George and myself, I thought it didn’t stand a cat’s chance in hell." Despite his doubts, Ridgeley agreed to the tour, which was strategically planned by their manager, Simon Napier-Bell, to elevate their status in the United States without the grueling demands of a traditional tour.

The decision to perform in China was monumental, not only for Wham! but also for the global music scene. At that time, China was still emerging from the Cultural Revolution, which had significantly restricted Western influences. The country was slowly opening up to the outside world, and Wham!'s concerts represented a cultural thaw, a moment when Western pop culture began to seep into the fabric of Chinese society. Ridgeley notes that this context added an extra layer of significance to their performances, as they were not just entertainers but also cultural ambassadors.

The documentary features previously unseen footage and interviews with individuals involved in the tour, showcasing the profound impact Wham!'s concerts had on their Chinese audience. Ridgeley reflects on the unique atmosphere of the concerts, where the audience, unfamiliar with such performances, was instructed to remain seated, resulting in an awkward silence as the band took the stage. This was a stark contrast to the raucous, energetic crowds they were used to in other countries. The initial restraint of the audience soon gave way to enthusiasm, illustrating the power of music to bridge cultural divides.

Ridgeley describes the challenges they faced, including the pressure of public appearances and the formalities of diplomatic receptions. He recalls Michael's discomfort during a banquet with Chinese officials, noting that he found the experience stifling and artificial. Ridgeley himself felt restricted by the demands of the press and the expectations placed upon them during this unprecedented tour. The juxtaposition of their pop star personas against the backdrop of a still-conservative society created a tension that was palpable during their time in China.

The film also delves into the peculiar hiring of director Lindsay Anderson, known for his highbrow films, to document the tour. Ridgeley expresses his disbelief at this choice, stating, "I thought it was bloody ludicrous. Someone like him, with his provenance and cinematic pedigree in the genre that he worked in, was just not the right fit for Wham!" Their collaboration was fraught with tension, leading to Anderson's eventual dismissal after the band rejected his initial cut of the documentary. This behind-the-scenes drama adds another layer of intrigue to the narrative, illustrating the complexities of merging different artistic visions in a high-pressure environment.

Despite the challenges, the tour was a significant cultural moment, providing Chinese audiences with a glimpse into western pop music. Ridgeley reflects on the excitement and confusion of the fans, emphasizing the historical significance of the concerts. He recalls how the experience opened a window to a new world for many attendees, with one local singer describing it as a transformative event. The concerts were not just about the music; they were about cultural exchange, and Ridgeley and Michael were at the forefront of this new wave of interaction between East and West.

As the documentary unfolds, it reveals the complexities of the tour, including the unexpected injuries and logistical hurdles faced by the band. Ridgeley recalls Anderson's injury at the Great Wall, which limited his involvement in the filming, leaving much of the work to his cinematographers. The logistical challenges of organizing a concert in a country with such different cultural norms and infrastructure were immense, and the band had to navigate these hurdles while also trying to deliver a performance that would resonate with their audience.

Ultimately, the raw footage from the tour lay dormant for decades until director Mike Christie unearthed over 20 hours of material while working on the new film. Ridgeley hopes that this documentary, along with previous films about Wham!, will help keep their legacy alive and introduce their music to new generations. The exploration of this previously unseen footage not only sheds light on the band's experiences but also captures a moment in time that reflects the broader cultural shifts occurring in China and around the world during the 1980s.

Reflecting on the impact of their music, Ridgeley states, "It’s about developing new audiences and it is about trying to keep Wham! there or thereabouts in the musical consciousness. Fortunately, we’ve got a really great catalogue of songs that assist us in that. All good music transcends generations and Wham!’s is no exception." The documentary serves not only as a nostalgic look back at a pivotal moment in music history but also as a testament to the enduring legacy of Wham! and their cultural significance. Their music continues to resonate with audiences today, highlighting the timeless nature of their artistry and the universal themes found in their songs.

In conclusion, Andrew Ridgeley's reflections on Wham!'s historic 1985 tour in China provide valuable insights into the complexities of cultural exchange, the challenges of artistic expression in foreign contexts, and the lasting impact of music as a bridge between disparate cultures. The documentary Wham! 10 Days in China not only chronicles a significant moment in the band's career but also serves as a reminder of the power of music to inspire, connect, and transform lives across borders.