Olivia Newton-John

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
A place where nobody dared to go
The love that we came to know
They call it Xanadu
(The tears you cried can't be denied)
And now, open your eyes and see
What we have made is real
We are in Xanadu
(The dream in you, they offer you)

[Pre-Chorus]
A million lights are dancing
And there you are, a shooting star
An everlasting world
And you're here with me, eternally

[Chorus]
Xanadu
Xanadu (Now, we are here)
In Xanadu (Xanadu)
Xanadu
Xanadu (Now, we are here)
In Xanadu

[Post-Chorus]
Xanadu, your neon lights will shine
For you, Xanadu
[Verse 2]
The love the echoes of long ago
You needed the world to know
They are in Xanadu
(The love you gave, you'll dream away)
The dream that came through a million years
That lived on through all the tears
It came to Xanadu
(The dream in you, they offer you)

[Pre-Chorus]
A million lights are dancing
And there you are, a shooting star
An everlasting world
And you're here with me, eternally

[Chorus]
Xanadu
Xanadu (Now, we are here)
In Xanadu (Xanadu)
Xanadu
Xanadu (Now, we are here)
In Xanadu (Xanadu, Xanadu)

[Outro]
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

Xanadu, a song by Olivia Newton-John featuring Electric Light Orchestra, is a music track that originates from the movie musical by the same name. Olivia-NJ, who starred in the film, performed all songs in the soundtrack with Electric Light Orchestra. The theme song “Xanadu” was a major hit upon release and remains one of the most recognizable songs in the 80s. The song has a unique storyline and captures the essence of paradise in Coleridge's “Kubla Khan.”

About Xanadu

Xanadu is a song that was written by Jeff Lynne, specifically for the movie musical by the same name that premiered in 1980. Olivia-Newton John played the lead role alongside Gene Kelly. It was one of the most acclaimed musicals of the 80s, and the soundtrack featuring all songs by Newton-John and The Electric Light Orchestra, garnered positive reviews.

The word “Xanadu” evolved from Samuel Taylor Coleridge's poem “Kubla Khan” and meant a paradise. Jeff Lynne's song "Xanadu" enhances the message by creating an ambiance and telling a story that captures the essence of paradise. The beat of the song, in conjunction with Olivia's voice and ELO's instruments, helps to create a mesmerizing tune.

When the song "Xanadu" played in the film, it was a part of one of the most iconic scenes. The scene depicted a glistening, shining roller disco amidst a background of fantasy-like, magical scenery. The song completes the scene by reinforcing the idea of a place to relax, escape, and enjoy life.

The song begins with a pulsating drumbeat, which sets the tone for the remainder of the track. The drumbeat is similar to the tempo of a heartbeat, and this helps to create an almost hypnotic effect. The vocals from Olivia-Newton John fit perfectly into the song and provide a balance to the instrumental side.

Olivia-Newton John's voice is soothing and her enunciation is on point. It reflects the character she is portraying in the film, an enigmatic muse sent from the heavens to inspire Michael Beck’s character's artwork. Electric Light Orchestra's instruments form the backbone of the song. The use of the electric guitar helps to highlight the melody and adds a bit of edginess to the song.

Jeff Lynne, who wrote the song, specifically designed the song's lyrics to match the intent of the movie. The lyrics tell a story of paradise, one in which a person can leave behind their woes and just enjoy life. This concept aligns with the movie story since Olivia's character is sent to restore hope to humanity by offering a glimmer of paradise.

In addition, the song has a carefree feeling to it, which helps to create a relaxed atmosphere that is perfect for getting lost in the music. As the track progresses, the vocals and instruments become more layered, and the track's energy builds up as it approaches the end.

The song's most memorable lines occur in the chorus. It provides harmony and sustains the song. The chorus is powerful and captivating, and it fits perfectly into the song. These lines have become some of the most well-known in the history of music, and it remains a favorite among music lovers of all ages.

Bottom Line

Xanadu is a timeless song that has remained popular throughout the years. The song is a perfect blend of musical instruments and vocals and helps to highlight Olivia Newton-John's talent. The song tells a story of paradise, a place that anyone can escape to and leave their worries behind.

The song's power lies in its ability to transport the listener to this carefree zone of endless possibilities. Despite being nearly 40 years old, the song's lyrics and melody have not lost any of their magic. It remains a song that can bring a smile to anyone's face and make their day a little bit brighter. With its unique storyline and the musical instruments blending together, Xanadu is a piece of art in the world of music.

• Release Date: June 6, 1980
• Artist: Olivia Newton-John