Rock out with your XANADU out!

In 1980 I turned 9. I remember how, it seemed, the entire world was in love with Olivia Newton-John after the success of the movie GREASE, so it wasn't a surprise that they came up with a movie for her to be the shining star. As far as i could tell it seemed to be some thin story to provide a roller-disco dance and musical. As I recall, the movie opened to bad reviews and it didn't do very well in the box office. Regardless, it didn't diminish the beauty and enthusiasm of the star, Olivia Newton-John, although, her career seemed to fade out at the point. All I know is that I remember seeing the commercials for the movie on TV and thinking how radiantly beautiful and energetic this woman was. She went on to fight breast cancer for THIRTY YEARS and passed away, peacefully at her home this past week. 

I won't lie. This song has been a guilty pleasure of mine. The ELO version of it is quite nice, as well. Each time I hear either version it makes me sad. It reminds me that the happiness and bright future that our youths hold for us can be challenged with obstacles. We must rise to meet them. Olivia fought cancer for 30 years. We should all be so strong. Rest in peace, Olivia. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cLi8fTlDEag

Xanadu
Olivia Newton-John

A place where nobody dared to go
The love that we came to know
They call it Xanadu
(It takes your breath and it'll leave you blind)
And now, open your eyes and see
What we have made is real
We are in Xanadu
(A dream of it, we offer you)
A million lights are dancing and there you are, a shooting star
An everlasting world and you're here with me, eternally
Xanadu, Xanadu
(Now we are here) in Xanadu
Xanadu, Xanadu
(Now we are here) in Xanadu
Xanadu, your neon lights will shine for you, Xanadu
The love, the echoes of long ago
You needed the world to know
They are in Xanadu
(With every breath you drift away)
The dream that came through a million years
That lived on through all the tears
It came to Xanadu
(The dream you dream, well it will happen for you)
A million lights are dancing and there you are, a shooting star
An everlasting world and you're here with me, eternally
Xanadu, Xanadu
(Now we are here) in Xanadu
Xanadu, Xanadu
(Now we are here) in Xanadu
Now that I'm here
Now that you're near in Xanadu
Now that I'm here
Now that you're near in Xanadu, Xanadu

Songwriters: J. Lynne
Xanadu lyrics © Emi Blackwood Music Inc.