More Than Physical: DjPault's Olivia Newton-John Blog

Olivia Newton-John - Mickey

2012-01-11T13:11:00.000-06:00

NEW! Olivia Newton-John single "MICKEY"

From the soundtrack of the upcoming film "A Few Best Men" starring Olivia Newton-John.Remix by Chew Fu, responsible for official remixes for major artists including Lady Gaga, Rihanna, Timbaland and Mariah Carey.

Swamp Dandies - Olivia (Video)

2012-01-10T14:32:00.000-06:00

'0livia' is the first Video Single from ex- 'Things of Stone and Wood' Frontman Greg Arnold and his Melbourne trio `The Swamp Dandies'

Olivia Newton-John's "Gaia" CD now available in US

2012-01-04T19:33:00.001-06:00

Olivia Newton-John's highly acclaimed CD "Gaia" is now available in the US.

Previously, "Gaia" was available as an import but now Green Hill Music has released the CD, with new packaging, in the US. This CD features songs written by Olivia as she finished her cancer journey in the mid-1990s.

Described as "one woman's journey from darkness into light, healing and serenity," all of the songs feature her stellar vocals, and lyrics that chronicle much of her emotional journey in overcoming cancer.

You can order the CD by visiting the Green Hill Music website.

"Grease" is the word for "Glee"

2012-01-04T18:50:00.000-06:00

Glee is adding a bit of greased lightning to its repertoire.
When the Fox musical dramedy returns Jan. 17, New Directions will be getting their Grease on, and we’ve got your first look at the greasers and the Pink Ladies.

Is Sam the Danny Zuko to Mercedes’ Sandy? He’s sure trying to be, even taking a move out of Danny’s playbook and signing up for synchronized swimming, where his coach is played by The Real Housewives of Atlanta‘s NeNe Leakes.

Check out the cool photo's below!

A Few Best Men Soundtrack To Be Released

2011-12-19T13:25:00.000-06:00

Via Press Release: Universal Music Australia will be releasing "A Few Best Men THE SOUNDTRACK - Music Inspired By The Film" this January 20th 2012 just prior to the film’s opening.

Music featured in the film has been recorded by Olivia Newton-John and remixed by International and local DJs and producers such as Chew FU (official remixes for pop artists including Lady Gaga, Rihanna, Timbaland, Mariah Carey, Roulette (who has support from some of the worlds Djing elite, such as Armand Van Helden & Kissy Sellout) and Archie who has supported Black Eyed Peas, Moby and Tiesto to name a few.

"When Stephan Elliott and Warren Fahey approached me with the idea of re-recording all of the songs featured in the film, I thought it would be fun as I was familiar with the songs from the 70s and 80s. Stephan and I had great fun recording in Los Angeles. Not only is he a great film director but a very talented music producer - full of fun, energy and musical vision. Having never done a dance and club album before, I was excited to hear what the remixers have done with these songs to make them so clever and different from the originals," said Olivia Newton-John.

'Mickey' is the first single off the album and Olivia says: "For 'Mickey', my sister Rona and I sang the chorus together and, I never realized how cheeky the words were until I read them! My vocal coach, Steve Real, kept my voice alive that day and also added his beautiful voice to the background vocals. The genius remixers worked magic!"

The soundtrack was devised and produced by music industry veteran, Warren Fahey, and film director, Stephan Elliott. Warren says: “We were lucky to find some extremely eager and talented Australian remixers and also score the extraordinary talents of Chew Fu, probably the hottest remixer on the planet.” The resulting songs are a massive musical leap for Olivia and bring her world famous voice together with sharp edged 21st century music style. It's a winning mix.

Tracks include classics such as DAYDREAM BELIEVER, AFTERNOON DELIGHT, I THINK I LOVE YOU, LOVE BOAT, LIVE IT UP, SUGAR SUGAR, DEVIL GATE DRIVE, LIVING IN THE 70s, TWO OUT OF THREE AIN’T BAD, GEORGY GIRL, MICKEY all remixed and produced with a fusion of electro house and dance making it a fantastic summer party album, and a brand new album by an iconic International Superstar!

First track ‘Weightless’ returns Olivia to her award-winning partnership with songwriter and producer John Farrar. Together they claim some of the world's biggest hits including 'You're The One I Want', 'Physical' 'Hopelessly Devoted to You', 'Have You Never Been Mellow', 'Magic' and 'If Not For You', among others.

'Weightless' was written by Farrar and his son Max Farrar and produced by the multi-award winning producer Marius de Vries (David Gray, Rufus Wainwright, Madonna, Delta Goodrem etc), Andy Bradfield (Pet Shop Boys, P.J. Harvey, Ronan Keating, Spice Girls, Kylie Minogue etc) and film director, Stephan Elliott.

Australia’s sweetheart Olivia Newton-John has more than 100 million album sales, her successes include four Grammys, numerous Country Music, American Music and Peoples Choice Awards, Ten #1 hits including “Physical,” which topped the charts for ten consecutive weeks, and over 15 top 10 singles. In 2002, Olivia was inducted into the prestigious Australian Music Hall Of Fame at the 16th Annual ARIA Awards.

A FEW BEST MEN is directed by Stephan Elliott (PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT) and Dean Craig (the Writer and Producer of DEATH AT A FUNERAL), and produced by Share Stallings, Laurence Malkin, Gary Hamilton and Antonia Barnard. The film stars Xavier Samuel (Twilight), Kris Marshall (Love Actually), Rebel Wilson (Bridesmaids) and Australia’s own Olivia Newton-John, opening in cinemas nationally January 26th – Australia Day.

Laurence says: "We're thrilled with the release of this outstanding soundtrack. It takes so many elements from the movie and turns them on their head. Just like her performance on screen, this is Olivia like you've never seen or heard her before.”

TRACK LISTING:
Weightless – Olivia Newton-John
The Rain, The Park and Other Things – Olivia Newton-John (Lo Five Remix)
The Nips Are Getting Bigger – The Wedding Band
Day Dream Believer – Olivia Newton-John (Chew Fu Fix)
The Pushbike Song - Olivia Newton John (Pablo Calamari Remix)
Wankered – The Wedding Band
Afternoon Delight – The Wedding Band
A Beautiful Morning – The Wedding Band
Brand New Key – Olivia Newtown-John (Archie Remix)
The Love Boat – Olivia Newton-John (Roulette Remix)
Live It Up - The Wedding Band
Sugar Sugar – Olivia Newton-John (Chew Fu Fix)
Living in the 70s – The Wedding Band
Devil Gate Drive – Olivia Newton-John (Chew Fu & PVH Night Fever Remix)
Georgy Girl – Olivia Newton-John (Roulette Remix)
I Think I Love You – Olivia Newton-John (Chew Fu & PVH Love Hurts Remix)
Two Out Of Three Ain’t Bad – Olivia Newton-John (Lo Five remix)
Mickey – Olivia Newton-John (Chew FU Fix)
Weightless – Olivia Newton-John (Punk Ninja Remix)

"A FEW BEST MEN - THE SOUNDTRACK - Music Inspired By The Film" - out January 20, 2012

First single – MICKEY – at radio January 9, 2012

A Few Best Men - Australian movie release: January 26, 2012

More about the film visit the global website for the movie here.

HDNET John Denver Special

2011-11-21T20:34:00.001-06:00

A heartfelt tribute of the man, the myth and the music at the First Bank Center in Broomfield, Colorado. Hosted by Olivia Newton John with performances by The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, John Oates, Lee Ann Womack, the Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra and many more. HDNet Concerts is pleased to present John Denver: A RockyMountain High Concert Celebration on November 27th, 2011, only on HDNet.

Vintage Photo Of The Day

2011-11-01T14:05:00.001-06:00

Olivia Newton-John & Jon Travolta circa 1978/79

Olivia Newton-John and Husband Awarded

2011-10-12T18:27:00.000-05:00

Olivia Newton-John and husband, John Easterling, were awarded the Stroud Award of Freshwater Excellence by the Stroud Water Research Center at its annual "Water's Edge" gala at Longwood Gardens in the suburbs of Philadelphia on Tuesday evening, October 11, 2011.

The Stroud Award of Freshwater Excellence™, also known as the SAFE Water Award™, is awarded for outstanding achievement to those who contribute broadly to the conservation and protection of fresh water.

Olivia Newton-John and John Easterling, also known as "Amazon John," are both staunch supporters of rainforest conservation and known for work in conserving the Amazon River watershed -- the largest in the world.

For more info, click here.

Olivia Newton-John Prepares For New Album

2011-10-05T13:56:00.000-05:00

The British singer and actress Olivia Newton John, who rose to fame with the role of "Sandy" in the movie "Grease" is preparing a new album and waiting for the premiere of her latest film.

The producer Brett Goldsmith, nephew of the actress, is mixing and finalizing the details of the album for the singer, whose production is based more on the sound of guitars, with some dance mixes, and still has no release date.

The album began recording with the working title The Hotel Sessions and have not yet concluded, from these sessions came the song "Best of My Love", although not officially made public, the song was offered as a free download in 2004.

This album include "Weightless" (Weightless) and will be the main theme of the soundtrack to "A few best men", the film that Newton-John starred with Xavier Samuel (Twilight) and directed by Stephan Elliott (Priscilla Queen Of The Desert), will be released in early 2012.

Read the original article here.

Olivia In "A Few Best Men"

2011-09-28T16:12:00.000-05:00

The trailer for Olivia Newton-John's upcoming movie "A Few Best Men" - directed by Stephan Elliott (Priscilla Queen of the Desert) and also starring Xavier Samuel (Twilight) - was released and this certainly isn't 'Sandy' from "GREASE."

Olivia literally swings from the chandeliers and slams a bedroom door to do a few lines of cocaine in a funny bit.

From the producers of "Death at a Funeral," the film is about a groom and his three best men who come from the UK to Australia for his wedding. It's the Aussie answer to "The Hangover" and "Bridesmaids" (and happens to feature "Bridesmaids" scene-stealer Rebel Wilson too).

You can see screen captures of from the trailer below.

Happy Birthday Olivia Newton-John

2011-09-26T17:26:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday Olivia!

Olivia Newton-John Signs Publishing Deal

2011-09-24T16:17:00.001-05:00

PEN Music Group, Inc. has signed a worldwide publishing administration deal with superstar Olivia Newton-John and her Zargon Music (ASCAP). The deal excludes Australia and New Zealand but encompasses all works written by Newton-John (including her song "Love Is A Gift" which won an Emmy® in 1999). The signing also gives PEN synch rights to all masters owned by ONJ Productions, Inc., which includes the majority of her classic catalog of LP's originally released by MCA/Universal, including the hit titles Come On Over, Don't Stop Believin', Totally Hot and Physical among numerous others.

The deal is a strategic fit to PEN's existing worldwide administration deal with legendary songwriter/producer John Farrar, Olivia's long-time producer and collaborator. PEN has achieved great success with John, especially with his classic song "Magic" (originally from Xanadu) which PEN placed in both the hit FOX series Glee and in a national Macy's branding campaign that has been running since August 2010.

Michael Eames, President of PEN, says of the deal, "I am so pleased to expand upon our success with John Farrar by adding Olivia's songs and masters to our catalogue. We now are able to offer some of Olivia's classic pop hits as one-stop all-in licenses. Olivia is a worldwide superstar who continues to be a vibrant musical talent and we couldn't be more pleased that she has entrusted PEN with her music assets."

The Olivia Newton-John/John Farrar partnership continues as the Farrar-penned composition "Weightless" (co-written with his son, Max Farrar) has been recorded by Newton-John and will be featured in the upcoming film A Few Best Men, in which she also appears as a co-star.

For further information, licensing and media inquiries, please contact Michael Eames at PEN Music Group, Inc. (818-766-9200, ext. 101, michael@penmusic.com).

Olivia Newton-John 2011 Tour Dates

2011-09-16T17:00:00.001-05:00

December 2011 Concert Tour Dates!

Verona, NY
Turning Stone Resort & Casino Showroom
Friday, 12/2/11 - 8PM
More info click here

Englewood, NJ
Bergen Performing Arts Center
Wednesday, 12/7/11 - 8PM
More info click here

Westbury, NY
NYCB Theatre at Westbury
Thursday, 12/8/11 - 8PM
More info click here

Atlantic City, NJ
Caesars Atlantic City
Saturday, 12/10/11 - 9PM
More info click here

Tarrytown, NY
Tarrytown Music Hall
Saturday, 12/4/11 - 7PM
More info click here

Information to be posted as appearances are confirmed.

Olivia Newton-John gets $1m donation

2011-09-16T16:18:00.000-05:00

Olivia Newton John with Bozena Zembrzuski and Carlo Montagner. Picture: Jon Hargest Source: Herald Sun

Olivia Newton-John had one million reasons to be happy yesterday when a Melbourne family made an unprecedented donation to her cancer centre that opens in June.

But their generosity reduced the singer to tears.

"I'm so touched this morning, it's very overwhelming," she said. "To give an amount of $1 million is incredible."

Carlo Montagner and Bozena Zembrzuski are urging others to follow in their philanthropic footsteps.

Last week entrepreneur Dick Smith accused rich Aussies of failing to open their hearts and wallets.

The pair, who are founders of a pharmaceutical company, said their donation was a personal contribution inspired by their exposure to the healthcare world, their experience living in the US - where philanthropy is more prevalent - and the knowledge that cancer affects so many people.

"We understand that not everyone can give $1 million, but we just hope that just as we have been inspired by the action of others, perhaps this donation might inspire you to do the same," they said.

"In our lifetime there is a very real possibility that you will be touched by cancer, as we have."

Newton-John's life was turned upside down when she was diagnosed with breast cancer.

She shared her story with brain-cancer patient Steve Symons yesterday in the day oncology ward where the 26-year-old is undergoing chemotherapy for a brain tumour called medulloblastoma.

He took his Carlton beanie off for her.

"No one takes their hat off for me," the fellow Blues supporter laughed.

To donate to the Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Centre, call (03) 9496 5753 or visit www.oliviaappeal.com/.

Olivia Newton-John "A Few Best Men" news

2011-09-16T16:09:00.000-05:00

Olivia Newton-John stars in new Australian film with Xavier Samuel. The film "A Few Best Men" will open later this year.

Flashback Photo 1978

2011-09-07T19:44:00.000-05:00

Olivia appeared on the Dinah Shore show in 1978 just prior to the release og "Grease"

Olivia's "Magic" in the running for Australian Video Award!

2011-08-20T09:37:00.000-05:00

Olivia's "Magic" is in the running for a nomination for Best Music Video at the Australian IF Awards! The IF Awards are Australia's version of the Oscars, and cover everything from feature films to shorts and documentaries.The nomination process is audience-voted, so go vote now for Olivia!

You can cast your vote here: itawards.com

Olivia Newton-John's food philosophy

2011-08-17T18:14:00.001-05:00

Olivia Newton-John has had her share of trials, but is as radiant as ever. Here, Olivia shares her food philosophy for a healthy life from her first book, Livwise.

Now that I am 18 years past my initial diagnosis of breast cancer and feeling better than I’ve ever felt before, I think of myself as a cancer thriver! People often ask me what my secret is and want to know how I manage to stay slim, active and healthy at my age – I feel timeless and even though my passport says so it is hard for me to comprehend that I am 62 years young!

"I have picked up some information about health and nutrition over the years, and with Livwise I wanted to present some of what I do to stay healthy. I believe first and foremost that simplicity is the key to healthy eating. My food philosophy is that what you eat goes in, and if it doesn’t come out it has to go somewhere else – like on your hips!

"It starts with a combination of controlling portion size, ensuring the food is of the best quality you can find (organic is preferable), exercising regularly, drinking lots of water and eating enough fibre to keep your internal wheels turning so you can expel waste and any toxins efficiently.

A basic diet should consist mostly of plants, vegetables and fruit, some whole grains, nuts and seeds. It should include some protein-rich foods and a small amount of healthy fats. I call it the common sense diet!”

Livwise by Olivia Newton-John (Murdoch Books, $39.99) is out now.
Supporting wellness

Currently in development, the Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Centre in Melbourne will support cancer research and offer cutting-edge treatments plus complementary programs, such as massage, yoga and music therapy. “It is a centre I dreamed of as I was going through my cancer journey,” says Olivia. “My vision is that cancer becomes a footnote in history.” Olivia’s royalties from Livwise will support the centre; visit www.oliviaappeal.com to donate.

Pre-order Olivia's "A Christmas Romance"

2011-08-12T23:07:00.001-05:00

Pre-order your copy of Olivia's 1994 Holiday Classic "A CHRISTMAS ROMANCE" on DVD!

Olivia Newton-John stars in this sentimental TV movie as Julia Stonecypher, an impoverished widow with two daughters. Living in a remote mountain cabin, Julia relies upon the meager income received from the cakes she bakes for the local townsfolk. Unfortunately, it isn't quite enough to pay the mortgage, and just before Christmas straight-laced bank manager Brian Harding (Gregory Harrison) shows up at Julia's doorstep, announcing that he'll be forced to foreclose on her. Startled by Julia's violent reaction, Brian rushes away from her house, only to be involved in a car accident. With a snowstorm fast approaching, Julia takes the injured Brian to her house to take care of him. Forced by the bad weather to remain longer than expected, Brian inevitably falls in love with Julia -- but will romance supersede his financial responsibilities? In addition to heading the cast, Olivia Newton-John also sings the opening song "The Way of Love." Filmed on location in Vancouver, A Christmas Romance first aired December 18, 1994, on CBS.

Pre-order now from Amazon.

Olivia Newton-John Working On New Dance Album!

2011-08-07T19:32:00.001-05:00

Olivia in the recording studio with Marius de Vries (center) working on new dance track by John Farrar.

Marius has produced for artists such as Madonna, Pet Shop Boys, Rufus Wainwright, Kylie Minogue, Josh Groban and David Gray.

More news when it's available.

Goodbye Cha Cha

2011-08-05T16:30:00.001-05:00

Another Grease actor has died.

Annette Charles, who played Cha Cha DiGregorio in the 1978 movie musical, lost her battle with cancer at age 63 on Wednesday, Access Hollywood reports.

As the self-proclaimed "best dancer at St. Bernadette's," Charles's character famously hit the floor with John Travolta during the dance competition scene.

Charles, who also appeared on TV's The Bionic Woman, The Incredible Hulk and Magnum, P.I., later became a speech professor at California State University Northridge.

In May, Grease fans mourned the loss of Jeff Conaway, who died at 60 of various health complications stemming from a longtime battle with cocaine, painkillers and alcohol. Conaway played Kenickie in the film.

Album Spotlight: Olivia Newton-John "Physical" 1981

2011-08-04T21:21:00.000-05:00

Physical is a 1981 MCA Records studio album by Olivia Newton-John. It is her most successful studio album, being certified double Platinum in the US.[1] The title track, written by Steve Kipner and Terry Shaddick, spent ten weeks atop the Billboard Hot 100 matching the then record of most weeks at No. 1 held by Debby Boone's You Light Up My Life. The single was certified Platinum[2] and it ultimately ranked as the biggest song of the decade. (In 2008, Billboard ranked the song No. 6 among all songs that charted in the 50-year history of the Hot 100.) The Physical album spawned two more singles, Make a Move on Me (No. 5 Pop, No. 6 AC) and Landslide (No. 52 Pop).

"Physical" earned Newton-John her only placements ever on the R&B Singles (No. 28) and Albums (No. 32) chart. Newton-John received her fifth Grammy nomination for Best Pop Vocal Performance - Female for the title track.

The provocative lyrics of the title track prompted two Utah radio stations to ban the single from their playlists. (In 2010, Billboard magazine ranked this as the most popular single ever about sex.) To counter its overtly suggestive tone, Newton-John filmed an exercise-themed video that turned the song into an aerobics anthem (and made headbands a fashion accessory outside the gym). Newton-John became a pioneer in the nascent music video industry by recording a video album for the Physical album featuring videos of all the album's tracks and three of her previous hits, A Little More Love, Hopelessly Deovted To You and Magic. The video album earned her a fourth Grammy and was aired as an ABC prime time special, Let's Get Physical, becoming a Top 10 Nielsen hit. The home video version, "Olivia Physical," reached No. 11 on the Billboard VHS Sales chart and No. 18 on the Billboard Video Rentals chart. (Although the video album is presently out of print, the videos are available on Newton-John's Video Gold 1 collection.)

The success of Physical prompted Newton-John to return to touring - her first since the release of her 1978 album Totally Hot. (Newton-John would not tour again until 1999.) In 2010, Universal Music Japan re-released the album with two additional tracks, Heart Attack and Tied Up, which were originally recorded for and released as singles from Newton-John's 1982 album, Olivia's Greatest Hits Vol. 2.

The album was also certified Gold in the UK. Purchase the CD on Amazon.

Track listing:

Side A:

1. Landslide (John Farrar) – 4:21
2. Stranger's Touch (Farrar, Steve Kipner) – 3:48
3. Make a Move on Me (Farrar, Tom Snow) – 3:15
4. Falling (Farrar) – 3:43
5. Love Make Me Strong (Terry Britten, Sue Shifrin) – 3:06

Side B:

1. Physical (Steve Kipner, Terry Shaddick) – 3:44
2. Silvery Rain (Hank Marvin) – 3:38
3. Carried Away (Barry Gibb, Albhy Galuten) – 3:46
4. Recovery (Farrar, Tom Snow) – 4:17
5. The Promise (The Dolphin Song) (Olivia Newton-John) – 4:39

Personnel:

Olivia Newton-John: Vocals
Steve Lukather: Guitar on "Physical", Acoustic Guitar on "Carried Away"
John Hobbs: Keyboards, Synthesizers
Michael Boddicker: Polymoog
Bill Cuomo: Synthesizer
Tom Snow: Prophet Synthesizer on "Make a Move on Me" and "Recovery", Piano on "Carried Away"
John Farrar: Guitar, Vocoder, Bass Guitar, Backing Vocals
Carlos Vega: Drums & Timpani
Lenny Castro, Victor Feldman: Percussion
Gary Herbig: Horns

Credits:

Produced by John Farrar & Steve Kipner
Engineered by William Bowden
Recorded and Mixed by David J. Holman
Mastered by Doug Sax & Mike Reese
Photography by Herb Ritts

Charts:

Album Charts Peak position

United States (Billboard 200) #6
Billboard Top R&B Albums #32
Australia (ARIA Charts) #3
United Kingdom (UK Album Charts) #11
Canada (Canadian Albums Chart) #3
New Zealand (RIANZ) #8
Japan (Oricon Charts) #5

Olivia Newton-John speaks out about "fracking"

2011-07-30T20:22:00.000-05:00

Olivia Newton-John has spoken out on the issue of "fracking" - the process involves pumping a large volume of water mixed with sand and chemicals into rock to create frissures that allow trapped natural gas to be released.

In her open letter, Newton-John says she is "horrified to learn of the extensive plans for coal-seam gas and shale gas exploration in Australia".

"The public's awareness as to what is happening, and the potential consequences to our health and our land, shows that it's time for some serious inquiries," the singer wrote.

"Many of my friends and family were not even aware of what was going on until they heard from me," she said.

While there is a moratorium on fracking in NSW until the end of the year, the industry is set to become a significant contributor to the state's energy supply, with companies undertaking appraisals in Gunnedah and the Clarence-Moreton basins, home to Newton-John's Gaia Retreat.

The star is demanding to know evidence that coal-seam gas mining does not pollute drinking water, what chemicals are being used in fracking and why companies are exempt from revealing them.

"Until these questions are answered, I respectfully request a moratorium on the coal-seam gas exploration and mining in Australia until all risks have been fully explored," she said.

Read Olivia's Open Letter here.

Olivia Newton-John's Daughter Chloe Lattanzi on Her Graphic New Music Video

2011-07-27T23:40:00.000-05:00

During an interview with ET's Chris Jacobs, Olivia Newton-John's daughter Chloe Lattanzi defended her actions in a controversial new music video.

The video shows Chloe appearing to snort a powdery substance, lying in a bed with slit wrists and holding a gun to her head. After the death of Amy Winehouse, the project has been steeped in controversy.

"It's so funny - I don't think I went that far," said Chloe. "It was a metaphor for what I was going through, so I wasn't like, 'Yeah I want to slit my wrist or put some electrical devices in a bathtub.' It was just about being in a lot of pain and dying inside in front of the one you love and them not noticing what you're going through."

Continue reading...

Olivia's Magic Spell

2011-07-26T22:22:00.002-05:00

Thirty years after the release of her smash “Physical,” Olivia Newton-John is still going strong and captivating fans. The iconic singer pays tribute to her favorite female vocalists, recalls the gay couples in her groundbreaking video, and tells why she’s excited about marriage equality.
By Jeremy Kinser

In 1978, Olivia Newton-John accomplished one of the most impressive image makeovers in entertainment history. The singer who had been a top-selling vocalist for much of the decade tweaked her wholesome public image by transforming from clean-cut to leather-clad Sandy in the mega-musical Grease and three years later completed the conversion with her provocative, record-breaking hit “Physical.” The pop superstar has continued to evolve not just professionally but personally as an advocate for animal rights, environmental conservation (along with her husband, natural health businessman John Easterling), and following a battle with breast cancer, as a spokeswoman for early detection and awareness. She also co-owns Gaia, a world-class retreat and spa featured on one of the final episodes of Oprah last winter.

Now the singer returns to the spotlight with Portraits: A Tribute to Great Women of Song, an album of covers that was recorded in 2004 but has just been released in the United States. Newton-John wraps her lilting soprano around eleven classics originally sung by Karen Carpenter, Doris Day, Minnie Riperton, Dionne Warwick, and other notable female vocalists. The versatile entertainer, whose acting résumé also includes a pair of cult films, Xanadu and Sordid Lives, will return to movie screens early next year. In A Few Best Men, a raucous wedding-themed comedy from Stephan (The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert) Elliott, she’ll play the mother of the bride, a role she’s also preparing for in real life with her daughter, singer Chloe Lattanzi, who’s planning an October wedding. Newton-John, a cancer survivor of nearly two decades, is also passionate about the forthcoming Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Center. She has also released a new dance remix of her 1980 hit “Magic” with all proceeds from the download will help fund the building of the center in Melbourne, Australia. The beloved Aussie, who recently performed at New York Pride's Bondi Beach event, speaks with The Advocate about her latest projects, her state-of-the-art cancer and wellness center, and why she's a proponent of marriage equality.

The Advocate: On Portraits you sing songs associated with other female vocalists. How did you decide which songs to include on the album?
Olivia Newton-John: They are all women whom I’ve admired and songs I’ve sung during my career and while growing up. I just wanted to honor those ladies.

The album includes a gorgeous cover of the Carpenters’ “Rainy Days and Mondays.” You and Karen were close friends, and it’s been nearly 30 years since she passed away. What’s something about her most people don’t know?
She was a very good friend. She was a lovely girl and a lot of fun. I think most people don’t know how much she loved Mickey Mouse and Disneyland. She lived [nearby] and loved to go there. She had Mickey Mouses and photos of the Disney characters in her house. She wore T-shirts with Mickey’s face on it. She loved all of that. She was a kid, a big kid. She was a lot of fun and had the most amazing voice. I was such a fan of hers. She was a great girl and I do miss her.

Olivia Newton-John Living Well Magazine Interview

2011-07-26T22:11:00.000-05:00

To maintain longevity in the entertainment industry, true stars needn’t rely on gimmicks and outrageous antics.

Just ask Olivia Newton-John, who has let her voice do the singing and her heart do the leading during an illustrious career that’s spanned more than four decades.

The 62-year-old vocalist and actress still dazzles audiences with her soulful music, but it’s her multi-faceted work behind the scenes that has taken center stage in her life, a spot she’s now happily sharing with her new husband, Amazon Herb Company founder John Easterling.

Check out Olivia's interview in the latest issue of Living Well Magazine.

Olivia featured on Yahoo.com

2011-07-23T23:59:00.002-05:00

Olivia still sings, Gaston too.Leahshia Yahoo Contributor Network

Olivia Newton-John HAS HAD one of the longest, MOST and MOST Celebrated Successful careers in music in the history of the world. She Has year upcoming film, "A Few Best Men," Which is scheduled to Be Released in 2012, and the singer Performed at New York City's Gay Pride Event at Bondi Beach in June 2011. She's Often Kept Consistently a busy schedule, delighting Her fans for decades. Yet, how much do you really know about this iconic star? Here are Some Things That Are Known lesser about Olivia.

Read the entire article here.

Olivia Newton-John Tops Billboard AC Survey

2011-07-22T23:49:00.003-05:00

Olivia Newton-John ranked #16 on Billboards Biggest Adult Contemporary Artists Ever survey.

Obviously, people mock Adult Contemporary radio. It's called "vanilla" and bland. Tedious. Monotonic. Strictly for the elevator. We beg to differ: AC is absolutely captivating. And, to celebrate the chart's 50th anniversary, we've ranked its 50 biggest stars.

Aside from being one of the most successful formats in the histories of recorded music and commercial radio, our AC chart is home to hall of famers, big-betters and hard rockers. Home to soulful sweethearts and songwriting superstars. AC isn't a place songs go to die. As radio folks, songwriters and fans well know - AC is the place where stars go to live forever.

See the entire survey on Billboard.com

Official Chloe Lattanzi Video "Play With Me"

2011-07-21T08:53:00.000-05:00

Chloe Rose Lattanzi (born January 17, 1986) is an American singer and actress. She was born in Los Angeles to actress and singer Olivia Newton-John. Her father is actor Matt Lattanzi. Her maternal great-grandfather is Nobel prize-winning physicist Max Born. Here's the video to her song 'Play With Me'. The video is derected by Olivia's step son Mikey Easterling.

If you thought that the clip to her, er, electro-heavy jam would be laden with imagery featuring rotting skin, drug taking, guns, domestic violence, slitting wrists, toasters in the bath and a WTF beginning with a guy taking a dump...well gosh, you've probably seen it then.

The new track is from Chloe's forthcoming CD

(WARNING: In all seriousness, there is some truly distressing imagery here. It features graphic images of self harm, violence and is not recommended for the squeamish. Nor similarly distressed.)

A Talkboy TV Production

Directed by Mikey Easterling
Produced by Jaala Ruffman
DP - Ramon Boutviseth
Gaffer - Chris Walters
Camera - Matt Arnold
AC - Michael Wong
Make Up - Veronica Sinclair
Special FX - Kevin Fallon
PA - Hunter Pendleton
Hair - Traci Henningsen
Stylist - Mary Simonsen
Prod. Co. - Talkboy TV http://www.talkboytv.com

Vintage Olivia Newton-John T-Shirt

2011-07-18T19:36:00.001-05:00

Vintage 1982 t-shirt sold during Olivia's sell-out PHYSICAL concert tour. This t-shirt is very collectible!

Olivia Newton-John - The Best Of My Love (Remixes)

2011-07-06T19:58:00.004-05:00

I had originally posted this release in November, 2007 and after many requests I am re-posting it with an additional new 2011 remix by "Vision Mixer" we havn't seen a new Olivia remix from him in quite a while and this one is fabulous!

"The Best Of My Love" and "Broken Wings" are two unreleased dance tracks produced by Melbourne Australian music producer, songwriter and club runner Brett 'Goofyfoot' Goldsmith who is also Olivia's nephew. The booty-shakin’ house remix of "Best of My Love" is by Melbourne-based UK producer Ashley Cadell. The funky electro version of the 80's classic "Broken Wings", and the house styled "The Best Of My Love", were both supposed to be on a new Olivia dance album, which so far has been put on hold.

The two tracks remain unreleased on any of Olivia's albums, and were only released via the internet for download. Olivia says the dance album is still going to be released. The album, when completed, will be an electronic/pop journey that hears "Livvy's" vocal reach new audiences. And also may contain some remixes of her classics. Included here are also great remixes by WLB and Bucabeach.

RELEASE INFORMATION:
Produced By: Brett Goldsmith
Artwork By; DjPaulT
Released: 2003

TRACKS:
01 - The Best Of My Love (Original Mix) 3:47
02 - The Best Of My Love (Radio Mix) 3:36
03 - The Best Of My Love (Ashley Cadell Club Mix) 7:02
04 - The Best Of My Love (WLB's Goddess Revival Mix) 6:10
05 - The Best of My Love (Bucabeach Extended Mix) 6:51
06 - Broken Wings (Original Version) 4:25
07 - Broken Wings (WLB's Mr. Mastermix) 7:10)
08 - Broken Wings (The Bucabeach Extended Mix) 7:44
09 - The Best Of My Love 2011 (Salad Days VisMix) BONUS TRACK

Password: morethanphysical

Promoters pics from NYC Pride event

2011-06-30T14:21:00.000-05:00

Olivia Newton-John at Bondi Beach NYC Pride 2011

Music and film legend Olivia Newton-John headlines FV’s massive Australian themed Beach blowout on Governors Island for pride 2011. DJs Phil Romano and Hector Romero.

Thanks to FVEvents for the pics! More info about FVEvents - click here.

"Xanadu" at Bondi Beach (Video)

2011-06-30T13:56:00.002-05:00

A very energetic Olivia as she performes her 1980 hit "XANADU" during the Bondi Beach Event at NYC Gay Pride on June 25th.

Olivia interview on blackbookmag.com

2011-06-27T19:22:00.000-05:00

From blackbookmag.com:

This weekend, I set my sights on interviewing Olivia Newton-John.

She was playing a Josh Woods and FornabaioVoss Events blowout on Governors Island saturday night. Some very helpful people over at Big Machine Media (shout out to Jessica Berek) came to my assistance, hooking me up with Olivia’s person, Michael Caprio. I didn’t even have to grovel much or say things like “Please Mr. Please,” or “You’re The One That I Want,” or “I’m Hopelessly Devoted To You,” or go so far as to invoke “I Honestly Love You.” They worked really hard to get me this interview, and Michael Caprio, I got to believe that you are “Magic.” It had to be over the phone, but I was going to talk to Olivia Newton-John and I, who never gets flabbergasted, was star struck and awe struck at the opportunity.

The phone screamed and it was Michael Caprio: “Could you do Olivia in 8 minutes?” As a thousand OMGs bounced around inside my head, I ran to a deli, got a pen and pad, and called back. I exchanged “hey’s” ‘hello’s” and “where are you’s” with the legendary singer/actress/activist. She knew I was blushing and bumbling and was as sweet, helpful, and fun as can be. She was on a ferry having just finished sound check. A police helicopter hovering directly over my head wouldn’t allow me to get it right. The copter moved as I did and I felt a little like Henry Hill from Goodfellas. Everyone knows I have “Never Been Mellow,” and I must have been a sight yelling at the sky on one of these “Summer Nights.”

I headed to Williamsburg and straight to Graceland tattoo and salon for some advice on what questions to ask. They know Olivia over at Graceland and “Let’s Get Physical” was playing as I entered. They were all busy inking and cutting and I knew I had come to the right place. “What should I ask her?” I implored. Everyone knows the history…Grease, a zillion big records, Xanadu. Everyone chimed in, including the customers. After a couple dozen “I can’t ask her that’s,” a question I could actually dare to ask came forth.

Click here for the interview.

We Love Soaps Olivia Newton-John Interview

2011-06-27T14:53:00.000-05:00

A short interview with Olivia Newton-John for the site "We Love Soaps," just before she Took the stage at a Bondi Beach gay pride event on Governors Island in New York City.

Olivia Newton-John Visits Off-Broadway's Manipulation

2011-06-27T11:21:00.002-05:00

By:Dan Bacalzo

Grammy Award-winner Olivia Newton-John attended a preview performance of the Off-Broadway production of Victoria E. Calderon's Manipulation at the Cherry Lane Theater on Friday, June 24. The show officially opens on June 28.

The production is helmed by Will Pomerantz, with the cast including Brendan McMahon, Saundra Santiago, Marina Squerciati, Jeremy Stiles Holm, Robert Bogue, Rafi Silver, Gabriel Furman and John-Patrick Driscoll.

The play centers on a woman coping with her husband's flagrant infidelities, her mother's suggestions that she have an affair herself, and her psychoanalyst's self-serving advice.The production features scenic design by Bill Stabile, lighting design by Kirk Bookman, costume design by Alejo Vietti, sound design by Jeremy Lee, technical supervision by Jay Janicki, and fight direction by Rick Sordelet.

For tickets and more information, click here.

Pics: Olivia Newton-John at NYC Gay Pride 2011

2011-06-26T20:28:00.000-05:00

Saturday night, June 25th, 2011, Olivia Newton-John celebrated NYC Gay Pride AND marriage equality with the LGBT community at the "Bondi Beach" event on Governor's Island.

She dedicated the new version of her mega-hit "Magic" to the LGBT community who, due to the new marriage equality law passed in New York state one night before, can now marry the person they love.

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"I have many gay friends that I love and care about, and I am so happy that they can now share their lives with their chosen loved ones and be afforded the same rights as other married couples."

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The sales of the new version of "Magic" benefit the Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Centre - download it here on iTunes.

~ Special thanks to The Randy Report for the photos and article.

See below for pics of the event:

Olivia with the event producers Tony Fornabaio & Brandon Voss

Olivia's "Magic" Available on US iTunes

2011-06-25T16:12:00.000-05:00

Olivia's new version of "Magic" is available on the US iTunes store.
All proceeds of this new dance remix version of Olivia's classic hit "Magic" will go to the Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Centre.

Go to the Olivia iTunes Store and buy your copy NOW!.

Olivia Newton-John - Xanadu (The Remixes)

2011-06-25T15:23:00.002-05:00

“Xanadu” is the title song from the album Xanadu, the soundtrack to the 1980 film of the same name.

The song is performed by the Electric Light Orchestra and Olivia Newton-John. Newton-John sings the primary vocals, with ELO adding “parenthetic” vocals in the style of their other songs on the “Xanadu” soundtrack, along with providing the instrumentation. A rare collaboration for ELO, the single reached no.1 in several countries and was the band’s only UK #1 single when it peaked there for two weeks in July 1980. The song peaked at #8 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the US.

Olivia performed the "Re-Glittered" mix during 2008's Gay Mardi Gras in Sydney Australia.

RELEASE INFORMATION:
Label: MCA Records
Released: 1980
From The Soundtrack: XANADU
Remixes By: Direct Hit Remix Service
Steve Anderson For DMC
Artwork: DjPaulT

TRACKS:
1. Xanadu '95 (Direct Hit Mix Re-Edit) (7:20)
Remix -Direct Hit Digital Mix Jamie Sciban and James Arnold

2. Xanadu '95 (Direct Hit Original 12" Mix) (6:16)
Remix -Direct Hit Digital Mix Jamie Sciban and James Arnold

3. Xanadu 2000 ( Re-Glittered by Steve Anderson and His Merry Mirrorball Men 7'' Mix) (5:17)
Remix - Steve Anderson

4. Xanadu 2000 (Re-Glittered by Steve Anderson and His Merry Mirrorball Men 12'' Mix) (10:34)
Remix - Steve Anderson

5. Xanadu (Original Version) (3:29)
Producer - Jeff Lynne

Password: OLIVIA

Olivia Newton-John NYC Bondi Beach Tickets On Sale Now

2011-06-23T15:58:00.000-05:00

Get your tickets NOW!

http://www.showclix.com/event/bondi

Order Portraits: A Tribute To Great Women Of Song

2011-06-19T19:26:00.002-05:00

On June 21, 2011, GreenHill Music will release "Portraits: A Tribute To Great Women Of Song" by Grammy Winner and Pop Icon Olivia Newton-John. The tracks were originally released in 2004 in Australia and the UK as "Indigo: Women Of Song". The CD will finally see its much anticipated US release. "Portraits: A Tribute To Great Women Of Song" is an elegant tribute to some of the women who have inspired, delighted, and influenced Olivia during the formative years of her career. The album is an engaging collection of the signature songs of DORIS DAY, JOAN BAEZ, NINA SIMONE, KAREN CARPENTER, JULIE LONDON and others. Produced by the legendary Phil Ramone.

Tracks Include:
1. How Insensitive
2. Love Me Or Leave Me
3. Cry Me A River
4. Anyone Who Had A Heart
5. Where Have All The Flowers Gone
6. How Glad I Am
7. Lovin' You
8. Rainy Days And Mondays
9. Send In The Clowns
10. Summertime
11. Alfie

Get your copy now! at these great music retailers:
Amazon
Walmart
CD Universe
GreenHill Music

Olivia Newton-John NYC Pride 2011 Promo Video

2011-06-16T12:44:00.001-05:00

FV Events and Josh Wood Productions bring Australia's most infamous beach stateside for a huge pride blowout on Governors Island Saturday June 25th. Australian legend and icon Olivia Newton-John performs.

Olivia Newton-John Adelaide Sunday Mail

2011-06-14T18:56:00.000-05:00

Olivia grabs the front page of the Adelaide Sunday Mail after her stellar performance at the Adelaide Cabaret Festival on June 11 & 12, 2011.

Olivia Newton-John Bondi Beach Advert 2011

2011-06-12T00:35:00.001-05:00

Olivia Newton-John delivers thrilling performance at Festival Theatre

2011-06-11T12:05:00.000-05:00

Olivia Newton-John performing at the Adelaide Cabaret Festival opening gala. Pic: Patrick Gorbunovs.

Source: Sunday Mail (SA)

FLANKED by sequinned and feathered friends, an elated Olivia Newton-John was clearly back in Xanadu as the Adelaide Cabaret Festival opened in flamboyant style.

And last night the Australian singing superstar showed us she's still the one we want.

The evergreen export who's taken Australia to the world brought her world back to Adelaide in a stunning concert at the Festival Theatre.

Looking slinky and sensational in a shimmering black outfit, Newton-John won the crowd over with the things that have made her a special performer: a beautiful voice, a natural personality and a massive heart that reached out to everyone lucky enough to be there.

Starting with standards like Little More Love and Sam, she revealed all the qualities that have made her a star of undiminished glow.

She crossed back to the '70s for Xanadu, singing a range of hits from Magic to Suddenly and the universally loved title track.

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The first sequin jacket came off when she launched into a country selection of the hits that made her such a big star in the US, from Jolene to Let Me Be There and Don't Stop Believing.

She sat with a posse of her backing singers and guitarists to give that country comfort to the massive crowd.

Then she got Physical and soon had the crowd pumping and on their feet clapping while she showed she had lost none of her energy or ability to work an audience.

Cracking jokes and sipping tea between songs, she showed all the fame and misfortune hadn't changed the person she is.

One of the many highlights was a song called Heal Me, an anthem to the many people facing the challenge of cancer and to help raise awareness for her wellbeing centre in Melbourne.

Having beaten breast cancer 15 years ago, her heartfelt emotions made it one of the more moving moments in this outstanding show.

Newton-John then unleashed a collection of her classic up-tempo numbers that set pulses racing and showed she knows how to rock with the best of them.

She then delivered her "cabaret" song, a touching rendition of the Judy Garland classic, Somewhere Over the Rainbow, with a voice that took us all where the bluebirds fly.

Then there was John Denver's Country Roads, filling the auditorium with smiles.

After that, it was on to Grease, the movie that made her an international star and the biggest surprise of the night, when festival artistic director David Campbell appeared.

Clad in a leather jacket and pants, he joined Newton-John in a raunchy rendition of You're the One that I Want. She then sang Totally Devoted to You and ended the night with her signature tune I Honestly Love You and so do we, Olivia.

Livvy wows Variety Gala Performance

2011-06-10T13:58:00.000-05:00

Headlining this year's Cabaret Festival is yet another string Olivia Newton-John can add to her already overloaded bow.

In recent months she's campaigned relentlessly for funding to complete her Cancer and Wellness Centre in Melbourne, has released a cookbook, re-released a single and yesterday she finally made it to Adelaide for her only Australian performance this year.

Taking to the stage at last night's Variety Gala Performance - where she performed evergreen hit Xanadu - Livvy dived headfirst into her first Cabaret Festival after weeks ago admitting she wasn't sure what to expect of the format.

The Grease star will tonight and tomorrow night headline her own shows but is hoping for some down time while in SA..

Stopping by local establishment Daly Barber for a hair appointment yesterday, Livvy expressed interest in fitting in a wine tour to the Adelaide Hills.

However Olivia wasn't the only VIP hitting the red carpet last night, performers and the Festival's artistic director David Campbell, with wife Lisa, rubbed shoulders with VIPs Maggie Beer, Grant Burge, furniture designer Khai Lieu, radio man Jules Schiller and fashion designers Lucy MacGill and Razak.

Article Courtesy Of: Adelaide Now