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Artist Spotlight

Paula Abdul

pop music · 1988–1992

Paula Abdul
📷 Toglenn · CC BY-SA 3.0

Imagine the vibrant energy of the ’80s, where the air was thick with pop and soul, and Paula Abdul was at the center of it all. A former cheerleader for the Los Angeles Lakers, she dazzled audiences not just with her infectious dance moves but also as a choreographer who brought the Jacksons and Janet Jackson’s music videos to life. With her unique blend of pop music and contemporary R&B, Paula crafted unforgettable hits like “Cold Hearted,” “Straight Up,” and “Opposites Attract.” Each song was a testament to her artistry, showcasing her undeniable talent. As she transitioned from choreography to chart-topping sensation, songs like “Rush Rush” and “The Promise of a New Day” proved that she was more than a dancer; she was a pop icon. In a world of fleeting fads, Paula’s legacy continues to resonate, reminding us of the magic of the music video era.

The facts

  • United States
  • pop music, soul, contemporary R&B
  • On Virgin Records, Concord Records, Mercury Records

Paula Abdul in the crate

Straight Up
Paula Abdul
1988
Cold Hearted
Paula Abdul
1989
Forever Your Girl
Paula Abdul
1989
Opposites Attract
Paula Abdul
1990
The Way That You Love Me
Paula Abdul
1990
Rush Rush
Paula Abdul
1991
The Promise of a New Day
Paula Abdul
1991
Blowing Kisses in the Wind
Paula Abdul
1992

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