Who Performs on “Opposites Attract”
“Opposites Attract” is a 1989 song by American singer and choreographer Paula Abdul with featured rap verses from the duo The Wild Pair. The Wild Pair consists of musicians Deedee Magno Hall and Waheed Ali. In live performances and music videos, Abdul is the lead vocalist, while The Wild Pair provides the spoken-rap sections that define the track’s playful, conversational style.
Paula Abdul’s Main Role
Paula Abdul is the primary vocalist and face of “Opposites Attract.” As a solo artist, she delivers the song’s melodic chorus and verses, showcasing her pop sensibilities and precise vocal delivery. Her choreography and music-video performance further anchor the song’s energetic, storybook-themed visuals.
Vocal Contributions
- Lead vocals: Paula Abdul
- Spoken word and rap verses: The Wild Pair (Deedee Magno Hall and Waheed Ali)
Who The Wild Pair Are
The Wild Pair were an American R&B/pop duo active in the late 1980s. Members Deedee Magno Hall and Waheed Ali collaborated on writing and vocal duties for “Opposites Attract.” Their contribution supplies the track’s signature rap bridge and narrative replies, which pair with Abdul’s sung responses to create the “opposites” dynamic.
Key Members
| Name | Role in “Opposites Attract” | Primary Background |
|---|---|---|
| Deedee Magno Hall | Vocals (spoken word/rap) | Singer and actress; former member of The Party |
| Waheed Ali | Vocals (rap/co-writing) | Musician and producer; co-writer of the song |
| Paula Abdul | Lead vocals, choreography | Singer, dancer, choreographer, television personality |
Songwriting and Production Credits
The track was written and produced by Oliver Leiber, a noted songwriter and producer who worked extensively in late-1980s pop. While Paula Abdul and The Wild Pair perform the vocals, the underlying composition and production were handled by Leiber, who shaped the song’s catchy, synth-driven arrangement.
Credit Breakdown
- Lead performer: Paula Abdul
- Featured performers: The Wild Pair (Deedee Magno Hall, Waheed Ali)
- Songwriters: Oliver Leiber
- Producer: Oliver Leiber
Chart Performance and Legacy
“Opposites Attract” reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in early 1990 and became one of Paula Abdul’s signature hits. The music video, which features Abdul alongside animated character MC Skat Kat, remains iconic. The Wild Pair’s contribution is essential to the song’s structure, providing the contrasting rap voices that justify the title’s concept.
Quick Facts at a Glance
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Artist | Paula Abdul | Music credits |
| Featured Artists | The Wild Pair (Deedee Magno Hall, Waheed Ali) | Music credits |
| Release Year | 1989 | Label and publishing data |
| Peak Chart Position | No. 1 Billboard Hot 100 | Chart history |
| Songwriter | Oliver Leiber | Writing credits |
| Producer | Oliver Leiber | Production credits |
Summary
In “Opposites Attract,” Paula Abdul sings the lead vocals, while The Wild Pair—Deedee Magno Hall and Waheed Ali—provide the defining rap verses. This collaboration blends pop and hip-hop elements from the late 1980s, resulting in a chart-topping hit that remains closely associated with Paula Abdul’s early career.