"The Rumour" is a song recorded by Australian singer and actress Olivia Newton-John for her thirteenth studio album of the same name (1988). It was released as the album's lead single in August 1988 through Mercury Records. The song was written by Elton John and Bernie Taupin, and it features backing vocals and piano by John.
Critical reception
Billboard commented that the single was "benefiting from aggressive pop production and songwriting aid from label mate John, the distinctive songstress is set for a comeback." A reviewer from Cash Box said that "The Rumour" is "the snappiest tune that Olivia's done in a long stretch and she rises to the occasion delivering a heartfelt performance." Jonh Wilde from Melody Maker wrote, "Okay, I'm not trying to suggest that she's The Monkees or anything, but when she gets rocking like this, it's 23 skidoo and away before you know it. Stars like this are not going cheap. We have to give in. It's our duty. I'm entirely serious about all this. Boom, boom, boom. That's me humming the second verse."
Personnel Olivia Newton-John – lead vocals, backing vocals Elton John – digital piano, lead and backing vocals James Newton Howard – additional keyboards, additional synthesizer, drum programming Davey Johnstone – guitar Neil Stubenhaus – bass Carlos Vega – drum overdubs Lenny Castro – percussion Kim Hutchcroft – baritone saxophone Gary Herbig – tenor saxophone Dan Higgins – tenor saxophone Lew McCreary – trombone Bill Reichenbach Jr. – trombone Gary Grant – trumpet Jerry Hey – trumpet Bruce Roberts – backing vocals
Charts + Chart performance for "The Rumour" Chart (1988) PeakpositionEuropean Airplay (European Hit Radio)40Europe (Eurochart Hot 100)92Quebec (ADISQ)24 UK Hi-NRG Dance Chart (Music Week) 7 US Adult Contemporary (Billboard) 33 US Cash Box Top 100 79 US Hot Dance Club Songs17
References