Olivia Newton-John – Physical (1981)

About the song

“Physical” by Olivia Newton-John is an iconic pop anthem that defined an era and captivated audiences with its infectious energy and empowering message. Released in 1981 as the title track of her album “Physical,” this song quickly became a cultural phenomenon and solidified Newton-John’s status as a pop music icon.

Written by Terry Shaddick and Newton-John’s longtime collaborator, Steve Kipner, “Physical” is a bold and catchy ode to physical attraction and self-confidence. Its upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and provocative lyrics struck a chord with listeners, propelling it to the top of the charts around the world.

When “Physical” was released, it skyrocketed to the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States, where it remained for an impressive 10 weeks. Its chart-topping success made it one of the best-selling singles of the 1980s and earned Newton-John a Grammy Award nomination for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.

The song’s accompanying music video, featuring Newton-John in various workout-themed settings, further propelled its popularity and cemented its place in pop culture history.

Decades later, “Physical” remains a beloved favorite among fans of Newton-John and 1980s pop music. Its infectious beat and empowering lyrics continue to inspire listeners of all ages, serving as a reminder of the power of music to uplift and energize the spirit.

Video

Lyrics

I’m saying all the things that I know you’ll like
Making good conversation
I gotta handle you just right
You know what I mean
I took you to an intimate restaurant
Then to a suggestive movie
There’s nothing left to talk about
Unless it’s horizontally

Let’s get physical, physical
I wanna get physical
Let’s get into physical
Let me hear your body talk, your body talk
Let me hear your body talk
Let’s get physical, physical
I wanna get physical
Let’s get into physical
Let me hear your body talk, your body talk
Let me hear your body talk

I’ve been patient, I’ve been good
Tried to keep my hands on the table
It’s gettin’ hard, this holdin’ back
You know what I mean
I’m sure you’ll understand my point of view
We know each other mentally
You gotta know that you’re bringin’ out
The animal in me

Let’s get physical, physical
I wanna get physical
Let’s get into physical
Let me hear your body talk, your body talk
Let me hear your body talk
Let’s get physical, physical
I wanna get physical
Let’s get into physical
Let me hear your body talk, your body talk
Let me hear your body talk, ah

Oh, let’s get physical, physical
I wanna get physical
Let’s get into physical
Let me hear your body talk, your body talk
Let me hear your body talk
Let’s get animal, animal
I wanna get animal
Let’s get into animal
Let me hear your body talk, your body talk
Let me hear your body talk, ah-ah

Let me hear your body talk (Your body talk)
Let me hear your body talk