Introduction
“Livin’ On Love” is a heartfelt country song written and performed by Alan Jackson, released on August 29, 1994, as the second single from his fifth studio album Who I Am. Recorded earlier that same year, the track quickly resonated with listeners, becoming Jackson’s ninth Number One on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart and topping the Bubbling Under Hot 100 list.
The song unfolds the enduring story of love between two people who start out with nothing but their devotion to each other. From youthful vows to a lifetime of partnership, Jackson captures the beauty of aging together on love alone. His lyrics paint a vivid picture of their journey—with lines like “livin’ on love, buyin’ on time,” reflecting a sentiment that simplicity and togetherness can triumph over material wealth.
Critics praised the song’s traditional country sound—AllMusic’s Thom Jurek highlighted its “mid-tempo honky-tonker” style enriched by “killer fiddle” and expressive Telecaster guitar work that makes its sentimental theme feel entirely approachable. Kevin John Coyne from Country Universe also commended it, noting its charm, catchiness, and delightful lyrics, giving it a solid B+
Meanwhile, the accompanying music video, directed by Piers Plowden, debuted in mid-1994. It visually narrates the life of the couple—from their early days of love to growing old together—illustrating how love transcends time and hardship.
Overall, “Livin’ On Love” remains a timeless anthem for enduring love, celebrated both for its earnest storytelling and classic country instrumentation—a shining example of Alan Jackson’s ability to meld sincerity with sonic tradition.