The music world lost one of its most charming and radiant stars this week with the tragic passing of Olivia Newton-John. The Australian singer/actress started in the country music world and then moved into the pop charts in the early 80s. Of course, most people know Newton-John from the smash phenomenon “Grease” and, for many gay men, “Xanadu.” And both of those films spawned extremely successful soundtracks and singles, further cementing her legacy.
In 1981 Newton-John released what is arguably her most successful solo album and single, “Physical.” With its suggestive sexual lyrics, the song was a huge departure, playing against her warm “girl next door” image. Despite the controversial tone of the track, the song was a massive hit, spending ten weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100. MTV had just launched a month earlier, so a music video was commissioned, taking advantage of Newton-John’s star image and acting chops.
The “Physical” video was directed by Brian Grant, who would helm Donna Summer’s “She Works Hard for the Money” and Whitney Houston’s “How Will I Know.” The clip is set in what looks like a stylized gym located on the game grid from “TRON.” Newton-John plays a sassy gym instructor trying to whip a group of lovable and schlubby guys into shape. Frustrated with her weak results, she takes a sexy, suggestive shower only to reappear to find her charges magically transformed into ripped, muscular men. Sadly, as Newton-John watches the gorgeous studs leave the gym holding hands, she sighs in disappointment that they don’t play on her team.
The music video is extremely dated with 80’s imagery, smartly leaning into the sexy nature of the song but letting Newton-John sell it with a wink and a smile. It also helped kick off the home exercise craze a la Jane Fonda, complete with the sweaty headbands and leotards. All in all, it’s a goofy, fun clip that highlights her sexy and playful star wattage.
RIP Olivia Newton-John. Check out the video below, and let me know your thoughts in the comments.