Olivia Newton-John, an acclaimed Australian singer and actress, released her album titled "Magic" on May 23, 1980. This album marked a significant milestone in her career and received immense success, spawning several hit singles. One of the standout tracks on the album was the title track "Magic," which reached the top of the charts in multiple countries, including the United States, Canada, and Australia. The song became an iconic symbol of Olivia Newton-John's versatility as an artist, showcasing her ability to deliver memorable and captivating pop tracks. The "Magic" album showcased Olivia Newton-John's unique blend of pop and soft rock, with a touch of her signature country music influences. The album also featured other notable tracks such as "Suddenly," a duet with English singer Cliff Richard, and "Xanadu," the theme song from the musical film of the same name in which Newton-John starred alongside Gene Kelly.
FUN FACT: In an interview shortly before his death, John Lennon confessed to being a big fan of the song. "I love commercial music! I like pop records," Lennon raved in the September 17, 1980 issue of Newsweek. "I like Olivia Newton-John singing 'Magic,' and Donna Summer singing whatever the hell it is she'll be singing. I like the ELO singing 'All Over the World.' I just enjoy it! That's the kind of music I like to hear."
An ambitious fantasy musical starring Olivia Newton-John, the movie s promotion got off to a great start in May 1980 with the release of the lead single from the soundtrack, Olivia Newton-John s Magic. Billboard magazine ranked Magic as the third most popular single of 1980, behind only Call Me by Blondie and Another Brick in the Wall, Part II by Pink Floyd.
The album also featured other notable tracks such as "Suddenly," a duet with English singer Cliff Richard, and "Xanadu," the theme song from the musical film of the same name in which Newton-John starred alongside Gene Kelly. The release of the "Magic" album catapulted Olivia Newton-John's career to new heights, solidifying her status as one of the most successful and beloved singers of her time. The album's success on the charts and its enduring popularity are a testament to Newton-John's enduring talent and the timeless appeal of her music.
Magic (Olivia Newton-John)
"Magic" is a hit 1980 song performed by Olivia Newton-John, from the soundtrack to the film Xanadu. The song was #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts for four weeks beginning on August 2, 1980. It also reached a high of #4 on the Australian charts and #32 in the UK. The B-sides depend on the label: "Fool Country" (also from Xanadu but not on the OST) is the B-side of the MCA release; "Whenever You're Away From Me" (with Gene Kelly) is the B-side of the Jet release.
Overall, the release of the "Magic" album by Olivia Newton-John on May 23, 1980, was a defining moment in her career. The album's success and the impact of its title track further cemented Newton-John's status as a prominent figure in the music industry..
Reviews for "The Secret Influences Behind Olivia Newton John's Magic Album"
1. John - 2/5 stars:
I was really disappointed with Olivia Newton-John's Magic album. The songs lacked any real substance and felt generic and formulaic. The production was over-polished, which made the whole album sound soulless and uninspired. Newton-John's vocals were also underwhelming and lacked the passion and emotion that I expected from her. Overall, Magic felt like a forgettable album that failed to leave any lasting impression.
2. Sarah - 3/5 stars:
I have been a fan of Olivia Newton-John for years, but I have to say that her Magic album didn't live up to my expectations. While the production quality was decent, the songs on the album felt repetitive and lacked originality. Newton-John's vocals were also not as strong as in her previous works, leaving me underwhelmed. There were a couple of standout tracks, but overall, the album didn't leave a lasting impact.
3. Mark - 2/5 stars:
I can't believe I'm saying this, but Olivia Newton-John's Magic album was a complete letdown. The songs were forgettable and lacked the catchiness that I typically associate with her music. The lyrics felt clichéd and uninspired, making it hard for me to connect with the music on any level. Additionally, Newton-John's vocals sounded weak and lacked the power and range that she is known for. Overall, Magic felt like a lackluster effort that failed to deliver anything memorable.
4. Michelle - 2/5 stars:
I had high hopes for Olivia Newton-John's Magic album, but unfortunately, it fell flat for me. The songs lacked depth and felt superficial, making it hard for me to connect with the music. Newton-John's vocals were undeniably beautiful, but they couldn't save the album from its lackluster songwriting. I found myself waiting for standout tracks or moments that never came. Overall, Magic was a forgettable album that failed to leave any lasting impression.