The Lovers (Alexander O'Neal song)

"The Lovers" is a song written by Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis and recorded by American recording artist Alexander O'Neal. It is the fourth single from the singer's second solo album, Hearsay (1987). The song's distinctive backing vocals were performed by Cherrelle and Lisa Keith. Following the successful chart performances of the Hearsay singles "Fake", "Criticize", and "Never Knew Love Like This", "The Lovers" was released as the album's fourth single.

Release
Alexander O'Neal's 10th hit single and it reached #28 in the UK Singles Chart. In the United States, the single reached #41 on Billboard's Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Singles & Tracks.

Track listing

 * 12" Maxi (Tabu 4Z9 07812)
 * 1) "The Lovers (Extended Version)" – 7:02
 * 2) "The Lovers (A Cappella)" – 5:16
 * 3) "The Lovers (Radio Edit)" – 5:16
 * 4) "The Lovers (Instrumental)" – 7:02


 * 7" Single (Tabu ZS4 07795)
 * 1) "The Lovers" – 3:50
 * 2) "The Lovers (Instrumental)" – 3:50


 * CD Single (Tabu 651595 2)
 * 1) "The Lovers (Extended Version)" – 7:02
 * 2) "The Lovers (Bonus Beats)" – 5:00
 * 3) "The Lovers (Instrumental)" – 7:02

Personnel
Credits are adapted from the album's liner notes.
 * Alexander O'Neal – lead vocals
 * Jimmy Jam – drum and keyboard programming, keyboards, percussion, handclaps
 * Terry Lewis – percussion, backing vocals
 * Steve Hodge – percussion
 * Cherrelle, Randy Ran, Lisa Keith – backing vocals
 * Jellybean Johnson, James 'Popeye' Greer, Kelli Anderson – handclaps