A captivating new 90-minute film titled WHAM! 10 Days in China is set to debut in theaters next month, showcasing never-before-seen footage of the band’s 10-day journey behind the iron curtain.
In an exclusive interview, former manager Simon Napier-Bell shares insights into his strategy to propel George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley to international stardom during his tenure with WHAM! from 1983 to 1985. Napier-Bell recalls his initial encounter with the duo, emphasizing their ambitious goal of becoming the top musical group worldwide within a year, a notion he initially found laughable.
Despite skepticism, Napier-Bell, along with his business partner Jazz Summers, proposed a groundbreaking idea to make WHAM! the first Western pop group to perform in China, a move that would attract global attention and expedite their rise to fame. This bold plan was met with enthusiasm by George Michael, setting the stage for a series of unprecedented events.
Following a series of resourceful maneuvers, including cold-calling Chinese ministers and organizing elaborate luncheons, Napier-Bell successfully secured an invitation for WHAM! to perform in China. The band’s groundbreaking concerts in Beijing and Guangzhou garnered widespread media coverage, propelling them to international acclaim and opening doors to foreign investment in China.
The documentary, meticulously crafted over 18 months by Napier-Bell, presents restored footage of WHAM!’s historic visit to China, offering viewers a glimpse into the band’s journey and the impact on Chinese audiences. Through strategic marketing tactics, including distributing Mandarin versions of WHAM! songs, Napier-Bell orchestrated a spectacle that captured the world’s attention and transformed the music industry landscape.
The film’s release coincides with the upcoming anniversary of George Michael’s passing, with Simon Napier-Bell reminiscing about the late singer’s talent and charisma. WHAM! 10 Days in China is scheduled to premiere in cinemas on July 28, with ticket sales commencing on June 24. For more information, visit www.wham10daysinchina.com. Simon Napier-Bell’s book, “I’m Coming to Take You to Lunch,” is also now available.