“Rush, Rush” is a romantic and heartfelt ballad by American singer Paula Abdul, released in April 1991 as the lead single from her second studio album, Spellbound. Written by Peter Lord, the song marked a departure from Abdul’s previous dance-pop hits, showcasing her emotional depth and versatility as a performer.
The lyrics of “Rush, Rush” express the yearning and vulnerability of falling in love. “Rush, Rush” is a lush pop ballad with a slow tempo, featuring gentle piano melodies, warm string arrangements, and a tender vocal performance by Abdul. The production is polished and emotive, emphasizing the song’s romantic atmosphere. While Abdul’s vocal range was often a subject of critique, her delivery on this track was praised for its sincerity and ability to convey vulnerability.
The song was a major commercial success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, where it remained for five consecutive weeks, becoming one of Abdul’s biggest hits. It also charted highly internationally, topping the singles chart in Canada, and reaching the top five in numerous countries, including Australia, and the United Kingdom.
The music video, directed by Stefan Würnitzer and inspired by the 1955 film Rebel Without a Cause, features Keanu Reeves as Abdul’s love interest. Set in a 1950s-style romantic drama, the video uses cinematic visuals to complement the song’s emotional tone, further enhancing its appeal and cultural impact.