Olivia Newton-John's angelic voice has been delighting fans around the world for decades. Did you know, however, that she has several songs that are just right for the traditional day of thanks celebrated in the United States? (They're also great for the Canadian Thanksgiving Day, of course, and really for any day you feel especially thankful.) Here are the essential songs from Olivia for your Thanksgiving Day Playlist.
1. "Grace and Gratitude"
This tune is from her album of the same name that was first released in August 2006 and was re-released in October 2010 by Green Hill Records. It's the perfect song to symbolize this day, with such inspirational lyrics as, "I stand here in grace and gratitude. No matter what we choose, I thank you. A thousand roads is all because of you." Olivia recently designed a shirt with Yvette Nipar which features lyrics from the album, "Grace and Gratitude," and it's sold on Be So Do So. (A portion of the profits go to The Olivia Newton-John Cancer & Wellness Centre.)
2. "What If"
Although this is one of those rare unreleased songs from Olivia (and one that fans dearly hope will later be released in a box set or a rarities release), it's one of the most beautiful songs of peace ever recorded. This song played on the opening and closing credits of her Christmas classic film, "A Mom for Christmas," which co-starred Juliet Sorci. Doris Roberts and Doug Sheehan.
3. "Do You Feel"
This song is from Olivia's self-penned masterpiece of an album, "Gaia," which was written as she was recovering from cancer. Don't let that fool you. It was one of the most unabashedly positive and uplifting records any artist ever gave to the world. This song is one of gratitude and wonder, in which Olivia essentially asks if we are kindred spirits, feeling as in awe and wonder of this great world as she does.
4. "(There's No Place Like) Home for the Holidays"
This holiday classic is from Olivia's 2000 Hallmark album, "'Tis the Season." Being home for Thanksgiving is where most of us long to be, and this recording is especially endearing. The other version that also complements this one is sung by the Carpenters; Karen Carpenter and Olivia were close friends.
5. "Take Me Home, Country Roads"
Yes, again, the theme of going home. It's irresistible at the holidays, especially on Thanksgiving, the holiday that kicks off the winter festivities for most of us. This is a timeless tune and is from Olivia's 1973 album, "Let Me Be There."
6. "The Promise (the Dolphin Song)"
Perfection is pretty much what Olivia achieved with this pristine song inspired by Olivia's love and respect for dolphins. Lyrics include, "Let us hope it's not too late, and that we can ammend all the pain we have suffered on a friend. We were born with our freedom. Oh, we were born with the truth. Then why do we do abuse it? We could choose to love." It's perfect for Thanksgiving as a song of peace, love and beauty.
7. "You'll Never Walk Alone"
This touching standard is especially poignant throughout the holiday season, including Thanksgiving when the need often becomes so great to be among those who you know are there for you. This ditty is originally from the musical "Carousel" and has been in such classic shows as "Cheers," where it was performed beautifully by Shelley Long and the cast. Olivia's fabulous version is from her album of lullabies that was recorded for her daughter, Chloe, that's titled "Warm and Tender."
8. "Serenity"
This unforgettable song is based on The Serenity Prayer, a daily must-have for those in recovery everywhere and those seeking hope and peace in their lives. It helps center you for the spirit of Thanksgiving and the frame of mind of gratitude. Accept thing things you cannot change, change the things you still can, and ask for serenity.
9. "Come On Over"
Yes, this one is fun to sing on Thanksgiving, especially if you are cooking and preparing for lots of company to "come on over." The song's title is also its album's title, and it was recorded by Olivia in 1976.
10. "The Silent Ruin"
From "Gaia," this is especially poignant on this day as a reflection on the rampant animal slaughter that goes in to too many feasts. Celebrate with this tune and some Tofurky to best observe the season. Better yet, start a ThanksLiving tradition because, as the song says, "Oh I dream of a time in the future when we can renurture the damage we've done. For although there's a dark side to all human nature, our true selves are born in the sun."
Comments