Sep 26, 2022

Country Songs by Olivia Newton-John

Known for her iconic role as Sandy in Grease, Olivia Newton-John has become a household name. It may come as a shock that the pop sensation started her career as a rising country music star in the mid-seventies. In fact, she won the CMA’s best female vocalist in 1974, beating legends like Dolly Parton and Loretta Lynn. To honor her birthday at The Nash News, here are her top five country songs.

1. "Let Me Be There"

Released in 1973, this single and title track from her studio album Let Me Be There took the country world by storm. “Let Me Be There” earned Newton-John her first top 10 single in the US, coming in a number 6. This country pop classic is known for its catchy vocal harmonies and kind-hearted lyrics.

2. "If You Love Me (Let Me Know)"

“If You Love Me (Let Me Know)” was her second release to hit the top 10 charts in the US. It quickly reached number 2 on the easy listening chart and number 5 on the pop chart. Newton-John’s sound truly doesn’t have a defining genre, as the charts prove. This classic is a little bit of everything: easy listening, pop, country, and even a gentle love song.

3. "Country Girl"

“Country Girl” stays true to Newton-John’s roots. Within the tune, she sings her passion for the easy country life: “No, I won’t forget that I’m a country girl / A country girl, you know I’ll always stay.” Violins and a steady drum beat accompany Newton-John in this southern ballad from the heart.

4. "Take Me Home, Country Roads"

Newton-John covers John Denver’s classic “Take Me Home, Country Roads” in such pure, southern delight. Her angelic voice gives the hit a new light. While the song stays true to the lyrics, she speeds up the tempo to give it a bluegrass feel. This cover is the best of its kind, thanks to Newton-John’s energy and preservation of the true country sound.

5. "Please Mr. Please"

Newton-John released “Please Mr. Please” on her fifth studio album, Have You Never Been Mellow. This country pop single was originally written and recorded for Bruce Welch in 1974, yet it did not succeed until Newton-John recorded a new version in 1975. The song is a mellow tribute to the good and bad memories a jukebox can bring. This is a true country heartbreak hit that is best listened to on the ole’ jukebox.