Album: Don't Stop Believin' (1976)
Charted: 6 20
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • This is a song about two lonely people who have been dumped by their respective loves. It's implied that they may hook up to keep each other company. >>>
    Suggestion credit:
    Mike - Santa Barbara, CA
  • John Farrar, Newton-John's frequent producer and songwriter, wrote this with Don Black - the lyricist behind the James Bond theme songs "Thunderball," "Diamonds Are Forever," and "The Man With The Golden Gun" - and with "To Sir With Love" scribe Hank Marvin.
  • Farrar wasn't planning on writing a waltz, but the 3/4 time "just worked out that way." Likewise, "Sam" isn't based on a real person; the name just sounded good.
  • "Sam" was Newton-John's ninth #1 on the Adult Contemporary chart, and her last of the '70s. She had two more in the '80s: "Magic" and "Physical."

Comments: 4

  • Elsa from Los AngelesWhat's the title of the movie that Olivia Newton John sang Sam
  • Richard Musgrave from CumbriaCaught this long forgotten song during on radio during Jubilee w'end. Adore d it. The waltz timing and lyrics full on nostalgia!
    Our family dog was named Sam. The song pre dates the dog but obviously had an influence? Great song and a great performer. Thanks to all concerned
  • Anonymousmy dog was named after this song . he died theother day. by bob-cat in farmers branch. cann i hear one ore time
  • Reza from Shiraz, Iranlove this song her voice is soothing
see more comments

Editor's Picks

Spot The Real Red Hot Chili Peppers Song Titles

Spot The Real Red Hot Chili Peppers Song TitlesMusic Quiz

The Red Hot Chili Peppers have some rather unusual song titles - see if you can spot the real ones.

Donnie Iris (Ah! Leah!, The Rapper)

Donnie Iris (Ah! Leah!, The Rapper)Songwriter Interviews

Before "Rap" was a form of music, it was something guys did to pick up girls in nightclubs. Donnie talks about "The Rapper" and reveals the identity of Leah.

Adele

AdeleFact or Fiction

Despite her reticent personality, Adele's life and music are filled with intrigue. See if you can spot the true tales.

Is That Song Public Domain?

Is That Song Public Domain?Fact or Fiction

Are classic songs like "Over The Rainbow" and "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" in the public domain?

Dave Pirner of Soul Asylum

Dave Pirner of Soul AsylumSongwriter Interviews

Dave explains how the video appropriated the meaning of "Runaway Train," and what he thought of getting parodied by Weird Al.

Jethro Tull

Jethro TullFact or Fiction

Stage urinals, flute devices, and the real Aqualung in this Fact or Fiction.