Released in November 1989 as the sixth and final single from Paula Abdul’s debut album “Forever Your Girl,” “Opposites Attract” quickly became one of her most iconic hits. The song’s catchy chorus, innovative music video, and upbeat message of love despite differences made it a standout track that resonated with audiences around the world.
“Opposites Attract” was written by Oliver Leiber, who also produced the track. The song perfectly encapsulated the playful, energetic spirit of late 1980s pop music, blending elements of dance, funk, and R&B. Paula Abdul, who had transitioned from a successful career as a choreographer to a pop star, brought her dynamic energy and charisma to the song, helping it become a massive hit.
“Opposites Attract” was a commercial success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States in February 1990. It also topped the charts in several other countries and became one of Paula Abdul’s most successful singles. The song’s popularity helped “Forever Your Girl” become one of the best-selling debut albums of all time.
The lyrics of “Opposites Attract” revolve around the idea that love can thrive between people who are very different from one another. The song celebrates these differences, suggesting that they can actually strengthen a relationship rather than weaken it. This theme resonated with many listeners, who found the idea of opposites attracting both relatable and optimistic.
Musically, “Opposites Attract” is a dance-pop track with a funky groove and a catchy beat that makes it instantly memorable. The song features a mix of synthesizers, drum machines, and bass lines typical of late 80s and early 90s pop music. Paula Abdul’s vocal performance is playful and light-hearted, perfectly matching the song’s fun and flirtatious tone. The song’s structure is straightforward, with verses that lead into a hook-laden chorus that repeats the phrase “Opposites attract” in a way that’s hard to forget. The bridge adds a bit of variety to the track, showcasing Abdul’s ability to deliver both melody and rhythm with equal flair.
The lyrics of “Opposites Attract” explore the dynamics of a relationship where the two partners have contrasting personalities and interests. Lines like “I take two steps forward, I take two steps back, we come together ’cause opposites attract” highlight the push-and-pull nature of such relationships. The song suggests that despite these differences, love can bring two people together, creating a unique and powerful bond.
The playful and positive lyrics reflect a broader message of acceptance and understanding, making “Opposites Attract” not just a catchy tune, but also a song with a deeper, more universal theme.
One of the most memorable aspects of “Opposites Attract” is its groundbreaking music video, which featured Paula Abdul dancing with a cartoon character named MC Skat Kat. The video was directed by Michael Patterson and Candace Reckinger, who used a mix of live-action and animation to create a visually innovative and entertaining experience.
MC Skat Kat, an animated alley cat with a cool, streetwise persona, was created by the animation team of Patterson and Reckinger. The video showcased Abdul’s choreography skills as she seamlessly interacted with the animated character, dancing in sync with the cartoon in a series of lively routines. The video was widely praised for its creativity and became an MTV favorite, contributing significantly to the song’s popularity.