Introduction
“Livin’ On Love” – A Timeless Ode to Enduring Romance
“Livin’ On Love” is a heartfelt country ballad written and performed by Alan Jackson, released on August 29, 1994, as the second single from his fifth studio album Who I Am. The song, recorded in January 1994 and produced by Keith Stegall, climbed swiftly to become Jackson’s ninth No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart, holding the top spot for three consecutive weeks in late 1994 .
In simple yet evocative lyrics, Jackson paints the portrait of a young couple who marry with “not a thing in their pocket”—but their love sustains them through the years. From wedding bells to creaky porches in later life, the narrative speaks to love’s power to transcend material wealth, offered “like an old‑fashioned story‑book rhyme” . Musically, the track is anchored by a mid‑tempo, honky‑tonk style with prominent fiddle and crisp electric guitar, elements that garnered praise for keeping the sentiment appealing yet grounded .
Critics responded warmly: Thom Jurek of AllMusic praised the “killer fiddle” and that signature Jackson storytelling, while Kevin John Coyne (Country Universe) rated the song B+, citing its charm, catchiness, and emotional sincerity . It’s frequently viewed as a quintessential ’90s country anthem—a nostalgic snapshot of simple living and enduring love .
The official music video, directed by Piers Plowden and released mid‑1994, visually reinforces the theme. It shows the couple aging through various life stages and intersperses scenes of everyday kindness and family bonds, reinforcing the message that love alone is enough .
Over nearly three decades, “Livin’ On Love” has remained a staple in Jackson’s live performances and a beloved classic among fans, consistently resonating with audiences who cherish its sincere tribute to lifelong devotion .
Video
Lyrics
Two young people without a thing
Say some vows and spread their wings
And settle down with just what they need
Livin’ on love
She don’t care ’bout what’s in style
She just likes the way he smiles
It takes more than marble and tile
Livin’ on love
Livin’ on love, buyin’ on time
Without somebody nothing ain’t worth a dime
Just like an old fashion story book rhyme
Livin’ on love
It sounds simple, that’s what you’re thinkin’
But love can walk through fire without blinkin’
It doesn’t take much when you get enough
Livin’ on love
Two old people without a thing
Children gone but still they sing
Side by side in that front porch swing
Livin’ on love
He can’t see any more
She can barely sweep the floor
Hand in hand they’ll walk through that door
Just livin’ on love
Livin’ on love, buyin’ on time
Without somebody nothing ain’t worth a dime
Just like an old fashion story book rhyme
Livin’ on love
It sounds simple that’s what you’re thinkin’
But love can walk through fire without blinkin’
It doesn’t take much when you get enough
Livin’ on love
Livin’ on love, buyin’ on time
Without somebody nothing ain’t worth a dime
Just like an old fashion story book rhyme
Livin’ on love
It sounds simple that’s what you’re thinkin’
But love can walk through fire without blinkin’
It doesn’t take much when you get enough
Livin’ on love
No, it doesn’t take much when you get enough
Livin’ on love