Burning The Ground Exclusive
Today’s Pride Month feature transports us straight to a fantasy realm of disco lights, roller skates, and synth-drenched euphoria—“Xanadu” by Olivia Newton-John & Electric Light Orchestra, the unforgettable title track from the 1980 cult musical film Xanadu.
I’m spotlighting the European 12” single, which includes the album version of “Xanadu” backed with “Fool Country,” a track featured in the film but not included on the official soundtrack. As a special treat, I’ve also added a bonus remix: the “Re-Glittered Mix” by Steve Anderson of DMC fame—a Pride-ready version that’s pure sparkle and spectacle.
🪩 Chart Success
“Xanadu” became a massive international hit. In the UK, it soared to #1 on the Singles Chart—making it ELO’s only UK #1 hit. In the U.S., it peaked at #8 on the Billboard Hot 100, earning both Olivia and ELO another top 10 pop smash. The song’s jubilant fusion of Jeff Lynne’s symphonic rock production with Olivia’s airy, crystalline vocals captured the hearts of both disco and pop fans alike.
🎶 Soundtrack Anniversary
Here’s something special: the Xanadu soundtrack turns 45 years old today! Released in the U.S. June 1980, the album has become a cult classic—featuring side A by Olivia Newton-John and side B by ELO. While the film itself polarized critics, the music became a beloved part of pop culture, especially within LGBTQ+ communities who embraced its theatricality, glam, and fantasy.
🌈 A Legendary Mardi Gras Performance
Another magical Pride moment: In 2008, Olivia performed “Xanadu” live at Sydney’s Mardi Gras, celebrating the 30th anniversary of the event. Wearing a dazzling disco sequin kimono, she took the stage at 4AM at the Royal Hall Of Industries before a crowd of over 18,000 fans—serving vocals, glam, and sheer joy. The remix she performed to? Yes, the very same Steve Anderson Re-Glittered Mix included here. The audience, as you’d expect, went wild.
Why “Xanadu” for Pride Month?
Because it’s joyful. It’s camp. It’s fantasy. And it’s a radiant reminder that escapism, glamour, and individuality are powerful tools of self-expression. Olivia Newton-John has always been a beloved icon in the LGBTQ+ community, and Xanadu is one of the glittering jewels in her crown.
This track is an open invitation to dream—to step out of the gray and into the neon. And during Pride, what could be more fitting?
🎶 “Now that I’m here, now that you’re near… in Xanadu.” 🎶
SIDE A:
Olivia Newton-John & Electric Light Orchestra – Xanadu 3:30
Producer – Jeff Lynne
Written-By – Lynne*
SIDE B:
Olivia Newton-John – Fool Country 2:28
Producer – John Farrar
Written-By – Farrar*
BONUS REMIX:
Olivia Newton-John & Electric Light Orchestra – Xanadu (Re-Glittered Mix) 10:30
Remix – Steve Anderson And His Merry Mirrorball Men*
VINYL GRADE:
Vinyl: Near Mint
Sleeve: Near Mint
U.S. CHART HISTORY:
| Year | Single | Chart | Position |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1980 | Xanadu | U.S. Billboard Hot 100 | #8 |
| 1980 | Xanadu | U.S. Billboard Adult Contemporary | #2 |
RELEASE INFORMATION:
Label: Jet Records – JET 12.185, Jet Records – 12.185
Format: Vinyl, 12″, 33 ⅓ RPM, Maxi-Single, Stereo
Country: Europe
Released: 1980
Genre: Electronic
Style: Synth-pop, Disco
NOTES:
Made in Holland
Side A Taken from the soundtrack album “Xanadu”
Bonus Remix taken from DMC Hit Mixes 195
Buy the 12″ at DISCOGS
VINYL TRANSFER & AUDIO RESTORATION:
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Great song, this one holds a special place, reminding me of the first time I saw this film at the drive-in one summer night with my mom and grandfather. All these years later, it’s hard to imagine that more time has passed since the release of this film than the bridge of time from the 40’s to the 80’s. And the song, it is so Abba-esque, I’m surprised Erasure or Goldfrapp have never done this one. This soundtrack had some of Olivia’s best songs, I suppose it is due to film rights, but I am surprised that this soundtrack has… Read more »
What a great way to wrap Pride month, particularly the Steve Anderson mix, which I had never heard of before. (It’s me, so I’m going to need to construct myself a radio edit of that :)) And thanks as always for sharing your deep knowledge about Olivia and her career. I appreciate you very much and enjoy your time away!
Thank you, Paul! Olivia Newton-John was one of my earliest musical memories (with Physical). The movie is such a fun ride, and as a fan of both Olivia and ELO, this is a song I’ll always enjoy listening to.
You’re welcome, Skiler 🙂
Since we are on the top of the great Xanadu, are there other official mixes of the song? I think there is a “Special Disco Edit” from an Australian 7″ promo and maybe an official “Disco Mix?” It’s amazing to hear that she performed the “Re-Glittered Mix” since it was a DJ service release. Was there ever a “Glitter Mix?” They really should release a Double album soundtrack of Xanadu with all the official b-sides and remixes. What do you think?
There is a bootleg Australian 7″ that contains the “Special Disco Version,” which I posted in 2015. There is also an official Japanese promo called Xanadu Special Disco Sampler. Both include “Drum Dreams/Xanadu (Special Disco Version).
Okay, so the only official remix is the Special Disco Sampler from Japan. Thank you.
Yes, correct.
Thanks for the great share.
You’re welcome 🙂
I love your write-up Paul! Olivia and ELO truly were a match made in heaven. Everything they touched turned to gold at that time. This single is pure ‘Magic’ with the exclusive B-side and the rare bonus remix. Thanks so much Paul!! Have a magical weekend, and you too Jeff, Song and Dance and everybody else here!
Thank you so much, Retro Hound! I couldn’t agree more—Olivia and ELO had such a perfect alchemy, and “Xanadu” truly captures that shimmering, otherworldly magic. ✨ I’m thrilled you enjoyed the bonus remix and that rare B-side too—definitely a treat for us die-hard fans. Wishing you a magical weekend as well, and sending the love right back to you, Jeff, Song and Dance, and everyone sharing the joy here. Let’s keep dancing through Pride Month in glittery style! 🌈💖💫
45 years!! I had the soundtrack LP as a kid before I saw the movie because I was a huge ELO fan, but I played side 1 just as much. Thanks for this Paul! I was also lucky enough to see Olivia in 2016 and she opened with “Xanadu” which brought a huge smile to my face AND she nailed ALL the high notes. Miss her.
That’s amazing, Lee—what are the odds?! I saw her in 2016 as well, and I completely agree—when she opened with “Xanadu,” it was pure magic. She absolutely nailed it, high notes and all, and had the whole crowd beaming. So glad this post brought back those memories for you too. That LP is truly timeless, and Olivia was one-of-a-kind. Miss her dearly. 💖🌟
Still one of the best songs I have heard in my life and how unforgettable she was in this video!
Absolutely, Martijn! I couldn’t agree more — “Xanadu” remains one of the most magical songs ever recorded, and Olivia was simply unforgettable in that video. The way she glowed, danced, and sang… pure enchantment. A timeless classic from a timeless icon. ✨🎶
Well said!
Thanks very much Paul! Love seeing your favorite artist pop up here!!
Thanks so much, Grant! It means a lot to be able to feature my favorite artist and share that joy with all of you. Olivia’s music continues to bring so much light — I’m glad you’re enjoying it too! 🌟
Brilliant Remix, never heard this before! Thank you!
You’re welcome!
You had me at Steve Anderson. His mix of “Save a Prayer” is one of the greatest things I own. Thank you!
You’re welcome, David. That “Save A Prayer” mix is awesome.
Xanadu was a movie we rented a gazillion times. I literally did not know it was a theatrical bomb until decades later. How could it have been with an omnipresent soundtrack full of hit singles we played at 45 rpm? It’s absolutely criminal it’s never gotten a deluxe remaster with all movie songs intact. It’s a “desert island disc” and should be in everyone’s collection. Jeff Lynne should have collaborated with Olivia on a whole album, it would have been amazing.
Absolutely agree! It’s wild how Xanadu was considered a flop at the box office, when for so many of us it was pure magic from start to finish. The music was everywhere—those 45s got worn out! You’re so right: a proper deluxe remaster with all the songs from the film (including “Fool Country”!) is long overdue. And yes—an entire Olivia/Jeff Lynne album would’ve been legendary. Their chemistry was undeniable. Thanks for sharing the love and memories! ✨🎶
Whoa, how excellent is this!! “In Xanadu did Kublai Khan A Pleasuredome erect!!!! .!. I love how you posted this on Xanadu’s anniversary!! Paul, I am so jazzed over this release because I’m not all too familiar with this special DMC remix you’ve posted!! What a find!! This is a great occasion for spotlighting this track!! I can’t wait to “experience” the glory of this record! It’s also wonderful that this flip side is included along with “Xanadu”!!! I so wish they would expand the soundtrack for a future release. So blessed we have you, Paul, because you make our… Read more »
Thank you, Jeff!! Your passion is absolutely radiant—and honestly, the joy you express is exactly what this track and this moment are all about! “Xanadu” is one of those euphoric, goosebump-inducing songs that just lifts you out of time, and I love that the DMC remix gave it a new life while still honoring that explosive, symphonic magic of the original. And yes, that finale is pure musical ecstasy—Olivia and ELO really delivered something celestial. 💫 I’m so glad this post hit you in all the right places (glitter and all!). Thank you for bringing such sparkly enthusiasm to the… Read more »
Jeff you are too funny!! Honestly, I’ve gotta echo Paul in that your ‘climactic’ comments are exactly what these records were made to achieve. They are meant to ‘arouse all the senses’, so I love all the joy that you bring here! It wouldn’t be the same without you buddy, your comments always bring a smile to my face and I vicariously experience the sheer joy through you. Have a great weekend!
Thanks again, this brings back memories of my youth !
You’re very welcome, Peter.