The highest rated song on the Billboard music charts for the entire decade of the 1980's was #1 for ten weeks in 1981-1982. This song was recorded by a female from south of the equator. Who was she, and what was the song title?

The song that dominated the Billboard charts for the entire 1980s was "Physical" by the beloved Australian superstar Olivia Newton-John. The track began its impressive ten-week run at number one in November 1981, carrying its reign well into 1982. This incredible chart longevity surpassed every other single released between 1980 and 1989, officially making it the decade's most successful song. While born in England, Newton-John was raised from a young age in Melbourne, Australia, placing her firmly south of the equator.

"Physical" represented a bold and successful shift in image for the singer, moving away from the sweeter persona she was known for in films like *Grease*. With its famously suggestive lyrics cleverly wrapped in the theme of exercise, the song was considered quite provocative for its time. Its direct double entendre led to it being banned by several conservative radio stations. The iconic music video, which embraced the aerobics and fitness craze of the era, helped cement the song as a cultural touchstone and a defining hit of the early 80s.