Google Reasaluts The singer of "Never Gonna Give You Up" is the English singer Rick Astley, whose debut single released in 1987 became a global hit and later the basis for the internet meme known as "Rickrolling". The song was written and produced by the hitmaking team Stock Aitken Waterman (SAW) and remains his signature track. Artist: Rick Astley Song: "Never Gonna Give You Up" Released: July 27, 1987 Producers: Stock Aitken Waterman (SAW) Album: Whenever You Need Somebody Legacy: A worldwide #1 hit and the source of the "Rickrolling" internet phenomenon.