It's a special Top 5 this week. For regulars readers of my blog (or just casual ones), I am also an actor in Melbourne, Australia. Tonight I am opening in a play called "Home Invasion" at La Mama in Carlton. One of the characters in the play, is none other than this week's Top 5 recipient, Paula Abdul.
"Home Invasion", written by Christopher Bryant (the play is nominated for this year's Griffin Award), follows three tales of obsession and disconnection. One of these pieces is a true story about a former American Idol contestant who was obsessed with Paula Abdul, even changing her name to Paula. She actually committed suicide outside Paula Abdul's house, a tragic tale indeed. In the show, I get to play a number of roles, including Simon Cowell. If you're in Melbourne I would recommend you come see it, we're playing until June 7.
So, to Paula's Top 5 songs. I have been a fan of the former choreographer's recording career from her breakthrough in 1989 - my undisputed favourite year in music. Paula really has made some addictive little pieces of pop.
There were some definite songs that had to be in this Top 5, songs that I truly adore. But as always, there were songs I loved which just missed out on the list. Tracks like "Forever Your Girl", Promise of a New Day" and "Will You Marry Me?", have long been favourites, and I get a little kick when my iTunes randomly plays them.
So here are the songs, tell my your favourites in the comments section below:
5 - Cold Hearted
This former US number one is a feisty little pop gem, filled with great synth beats and haunting strings. Great lyrics, Paula sounds wonderful and there was a brilliant film clip where Paula plays homage to Bob Fosse and "All That Jazz". So 90s, so good! Why don't people remember this song more?
4 - Opposites Attract
I really did want to put Paula's duet with cartoon cat MC Skat Kat higher on the list, but had to slip it into the number four spot. People LOVE this track, and for good reason. This New Jack Swing track hit number one here in Australia and it still gets people singing along to those catchy lyrics. This could have easily been a novelty track but was always too good. Another great clip, another great song.
3 - My Love Is For Real
Paula's last Australian hit took its influence from the Middle East with some very funky beats. This was a different sound for Paula and while it wasn't as successful in the US as she would have liked, I loved the deep beats and Paula's lower vocal tones. A sexy track that is still as good as when it was released.
2 - Straight Up
Paula's first hit, but second single, is a true classic. The synth sounds with recurring trumpet are fantastic, and even though it's a mid tempo dance track, its still a wonderful track to dance to. With some great lyrics, this is still an amazing track that is trademark Paula. A very funky song that made me fall in love with Paula.
1 - Rush Rush
Words can barely describe my love for this beautifully written ballad. The track elicits so many great memories and reminds me of my friend Bree - I always joked I was going to recite the lyrics at her wedding and we used to quote the film clip together all the time. Speaking of the film clip, what a film clip - exquisite. Keanu Reeves, in his prime, recreates James Dean's iconic role in "Rebel Without a Cause". Paula's acting? Well, she looked good! I'm listening to this song right now and am loving it still. Sing it with me, "Rush, rush, hurry, hurry lover come to me...."
Remember to tell me in the comments section below what your favourite Paula Abdul track is.
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