Introduction:
“Let Me Live With Love (And Die With You)” is a poignant country ballad by American singer Ricky Van Shelton. The song was released in September 1988 and is a track on his highly successful second studio album, Loving Proof, which was released on September 20, 1988. This album quickly became a cornerstone of Shelton’s career, showcasing his smooth baritone voice and his ability to deliver heartfelt country narratives. The genre of the song is firmly country music, embodying the traditional sound and lyrical themes that resonated deeply with country audiences of the late 1980s.
While “Let Me Live With Love (And Die With You)” wasn’t released as a standalone single from the Loving Proof album, its presence as an album track contributed significantly to the overall success and critical acclaim of the record. Loving Proof itself was a massive achievement for Ricky Van Shelton, solidifying his status as a leading voice in country music. The album topped the US Billboard Top Country Albums chart and reached number 78 on the all-genre Billboard 200. Furthermore, it achieved Platinum certification from the RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America) for sales exceeding one million units in the United States, and also earned Platinum certification in Canada from Music Canada.
Although “Let Me Live With Love (And Die With You)” didn’t receive individual chart recognition as a single, the album it belonged to spawned multiple chart-topping hits, including “I’ll Leave This World Loving You,” “From a Jack to a King,” and “Living Proof,” all of which reached number one on the country charts. “Hole in My Pocket,” another track from the album, peaked at number 4. The inclusion of “Let Me Live With Love (And Die With You)” within such a successful album underscored its quality and its role in creating a cohesive and emotionally resonant collection of songs. It stands as an excellent example of Ricky Van Shelton’s signature blend of traditional country sensibilities with a touch of contemporary production, contributing to his enduring legacy in the genre.