Spotlight: Paula Abdul

Paula Abdul is a singer, songwriter, dancer, and choreographer who rose to fame in the 1980s. Her unique style of dance moves and energetic pop music was an instant hit, quickly making her one of the biggest stars of the decade.

Abdul’s hit single "Straight Up" released in 1988 became an instant classic, with its catchy beat and unique melody. It climbed to the top of the charts and stayed there for several weeks, earning Abdul her first Grammy Award nomination. Her debut album, Forever Your Girl, was released the same year and soon became a huge success selling over 7 million copies worldwide.

Her second album, Spellbound, released in 1991 cemented her place in music industry history. With hits like "Rush Rush," and "Promise of a New Day," her album also showcased her versatility as an artist, exploring themes of love and heartbreak through her music. The music video for "Rush Rush" features a young Keanu Reeves as the romantic lead opposite Abdul, evoking nostalgia for fans of both the music and the film industry.

Abdul's success in the music industry also opened up opportunities in television and film. She became a judge on American Idol, which aired from 2002 to 2009, and also starred in her own reality television show, Hey Paula. Her music has also been featured in countless films and television shows, including the popular dance movie “Step Up”, further cementing her legacy in pop culture.

Perhaps one of Abdul's greatest contributions to music is her groundbreaking dance choreography. Before becoming a singer, she worked as a choreographer for artists like Janet Jackson and the Jackson 5. Her dance moves have become iconic and are still emulated today by aspiring dancers.

Abdul's music career in the 1980s was defined by her infectious pop hits, catchy dance beats, and iconic music videos that were unlike anything seen at the time. She blazed a trail in the music world, breaking barriers and changing the face of pop music. Today, her music is still as popular as ever, remaining a beloved reminder of the neon-colored, big-haired, and leg-warmer-wearing era of the 1980s.

Retro Review: George Michael - Faith

Faith, the debut solo album by George Michael, is a masterpiece that showcases his talent as a songwriter and musician. Released in 1987, the album marked a significant departure from Michael's pop duo Wham! and allowed him to establish himself as one of the most talented artists of his generation.

The album opens with the title track, "Faith," a masterpiece that remains one of Michael's greatest hits. The song's iconic riff, catchy melody, and powerful lyrics make it a timeless classic. The video for the song, featuring Michael strutting around in a leather jacket and tight jeans, helped solidify his status as a sex symbol.

The album also included other hit singles, including "Father Figure," "One More Try," and "Monkey," each showcasing Michael's versatility as a songwriter. The album's soaring ballads were a departure from Wham!'s pop sound, and Michael infused them with a level of soul and emotion that few pop stars could match.

One of the most remarkable things about Faith is how it remains relevant more than three decades later. Its themes of love, loss, and redemption are timeless, and the quality of Michael's songwriting is unparalleled. Even the deeper cuts on the album, like "Hard Day" and "Kissing a Fool," have stood the test of time and remain favorites among fans.

In addition to the hit songs and excellent songwriting, Faith also marked a significant turning point in Michael's career. It allowed him to establish himself as a solo artist and paved the way for future albums like Listen Without Prejudice Volume 1 and Older.

In conclusion, Faith is an album that stands the test of time. Its catchy hooks, soaring ballads, and powerful lyrics continue to resonate with fans and newcomers alike. It marked the beginning of George Michael's remarkable solo career and remains a testament to his talent as a songwriter and musician. If you haven't listened to Faith, now is the time to discover what all the fuss is about.

Chartbuster: Two of Hearts - Stacey Q

The 1986 hit song "Two of Hearts" by Stacey Q is still a beloved classic today. With its catchy melody and irresistible dance beat, this song is a perfect representation of the upbeat and carefree energy of the 80s.

Stacey Q's vocals are the highlight of the song, as she flawlessly switches between singing and rapping over the infectious synth-pop beat. The lyrics have a light and playful feel, reinforcing the happy-go-lucky vibe of the song. They speak of the excitement and magic of falling in love, something that is relatable to people of all ages.

The song's music video is also iconic, featuring Stacey Q sporting an edgy, punk-inspired look and dancing her heart out in a club. The visuals perfectly capture the vibrant and colorful culture of the 80s and the joy of the era's nightlife.

"Two of Hearts" became an instant smash hit, reaching the top ten on both the Billboard Hot 100 and the Dance Club Songs chart. The song has since been covered by various artists and has been featured in numerous movies, TV shows, and commercials.

Overall, "Two of Hearts" is a fun and feel-good song that continues to evoke feelings of nostalgia and happiness. It's definitely worth listening to for anyone looking to add some danceable fun to their daily playlist.