Careless Whisper was released in 1984 by George Michael, with Wham!, and its saxophone introduction became one of the most recognisable melodies in pop music. Over the decades the riff moved beyond radio into films, television and internet culture, where it became shorthand for romance, seduction and dramatic entrances. Short clips of the melody now circulate widely on soundboards and social media, often shared under playful titles such as Ai Mei, the Chinese word for ambiguous romance. Its instant recognition keeps it useful for creators who want a joke or a reveal to land immediately.