Introduction:
In 2001, Country music icon George Strait released his studio album, The Road Less Traveled. This marked a significant moment in Strait’s career, not only for the album’s title, but also for the content it carried. Known for his signature brand of neotraditional country, Strait had consistently delivered chart-topping hits that stayed true to the genre’s core sound. The Road Less Traveled, however, offered a glimpse of Strait’s willingness to explore new territory, while still maintaining the essence of what his fans loved.
The album’s second single, “Living and Living Well”, perfectly embodied this approach. Released in February 2002, the song was written by songwriting trio Tony Martin, Mark Nesler, and Tom Shapiro. Production duties were shared by Tony Brown and Strait himself, a partnership that had proven successful on numerous past projects.
“Living and Living Well” didn’t stray far from Strait’s signature sound in a dramatic way. The steady rhythm section, prominent steel guitar, and Strait’s smooth, baritone vocals were all present. However, the lyrical content offered a slightly more introspective look at life and contentment. It spoke of a man who, having achieved a certain level of success and established a comfortable life, is content to simply enjoy the simple pleasures and the company of loved ones. This resonated with Strait’s core audience, many of whom were themselves navigating similar stages in their own lives.
While “Living and Living Well” wasn’t a chart-topping juggernaut like some of Strait’s previous hits, it still achieved a respectable peak of number 12 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. More importantly, it became a fan favorite, finding a place on countless playlists and cementing its place within Strait’s vast and impressive catalogue. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to connect with listeners on a personal level, offering a relatable message wrapped in Strait’s signature country charm.
So, as “Living and Living Well” settled into its place within the country music landscape, it served as a reminder of George Strait’s enduring appeal. It showcased his ability to evolve as an artist while staying true to his roots, a quality that has kept him at the forefront of country music for decades.
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Lyrics:
Had a nice little lifeA little boat a little beachA little routine I likedA blue ocean viewFree to go with the flowAnywhere that I wanted toBut the moment you set foot on my shoreThat’s when I knew
There’s a difference inLiving and living wellYou can’t have it allAll by yourselfSomething’s always missing‘Til you share it with someone elseThere’s a difference in living and living well
‘Til you smiled with meThought that I had it goodAs good as it could beFrom the back of my deckCaught a fish caught a breezeAnd a thousand red sunsetsBut sitting here with you girl I just sawThe best one yet
There’s a difference inLiving and living wellYou can’t have it allAll by yourselfSomething’s always missing‘Til you share it with someone elseThere’s a difference in living and living well
My days are brighterMy sky a deeper blueMy nights are sweeterWhen I’m with you
There’s a difference inLiving and living wellYou can’t have it allAll by yourselfSomething’s always missing‘Til you share it with someone elseThere’s a difference in living and living well