Olivia Newton-John is one of the most successful crossover artists from country music to pop. The English-Australian singer left a legacy to the country music with her hits “I Honestly Love You,” “Let Me Be There,” “If You Love Me (Let Me Know),” and many others.
Whether you think that she was not country enough or otherwise, it remains true to this day that the singer has left a big impact on the music industry and to her fans.
Olivia Newton-John’s Entry to Country Music
The singer started her career in Britain where she recorded “Till You Say You’ll Be Mine” back in 1966. She was not as successful as she would like to be but she continued making music. Her first real success was when she covered Bob Dylan’s song. Olivia Newton-John is one of the first artists to be criticized with mixing country music and pop. Her entry to the country charts was frowned upon by country artists who are considered ‘purists.’
Her career in country music was cemented when she won a Grammy for Best Country Female beating Loretta Lynn and Dolly Parton. She won the category with her smash hit “Let Me Be There” and she got another win at the ACM for Most Promising Female Vocalist. This made other country music figures all the more question the direction of country music if they are letting someone like Newton-John wins country music awards.
Olivia Newton-John’s Battle with Cancer
As of now, the singer is not making any music, but she is active with organizations that help cancer patients like her. Back in 1992, she was diagnosed with breast cancer and has stayed in remission. Unfortunately, the singer had announced that the cancer returned and metastasized to her lower back two years ago.
This did not deter the fighting spirit of the singer as she knows that she is living her best life and this is her third time battling with cancer. The singer is still positive that she will come out of it stronger and healthier just like what she did in the past.
Listen to Olivia Newton-John’s biggest country hit here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xB2cY-8xFdI
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Olivia Newton-John