About the song
Ah, yes, George Strait’s If You Ain’t Lovin’ (You Ain’t Livin’). Now that’s a song that takes you back, a true cornerstone of 1980s country music. Strait, the undisputed King of Country, released this gem in 1988 as the title track for his eighth studio album. But the song’s origins go back a bit further.
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Originally penned by songwriter Tommy Collins, If You Ain’t Lovin’ (You Ain’t Livin’) was first recorded by another country legend, Faron Young, in 1977. Young’s version was a respectable hit, but it was Strait’s rendition that truly resonated with audiences and cemented itself as a country classic.
There’s a reason for that. Strait, with his signature smooth baritone and unpretentious delivery, perfectly captured the essence of the song’s message. If You Ain’t Lovin’ (You Ain’t Livin’) is a simple yet profound statement about the importance of passion and joy in life. The lyrics paint a picture of a world drained of color, a life devoid of love, where “the days are gettin’ longer, the nights won’t ever end”. It’s a powerful image, one that underscores the transformative power of love.
But Strait’s version goes beyond just the lyrics. The arrangement is pure country perfection. A bed of clean Telecaster guitar sets the pace, punctuated by a driving drumbeat and punctuated by tasteful steel guitar licks. Strait’s voice soars above it all, conveying a quiet intensity that makes the message all the more impactful.
If You Ain’t Lovin’ (You Ain’t Livin’) was a massive success for Strait. It became his 15th No. 1 single on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, solidifying his place as one of the genre’s biggest stars. The song also helped propel the album to platinum sales status, further solidifying Strait’s dominance in the country music landscape.
More importantly, the song transcended the charts. It became an anthem for those seeking a more fulfilling life, a reminder to embrace passion and chase after what truly matters. It’s a sentiment that resonates just as strongly today as it did in 1988. So, the next time you hear those opening lines – “The sun peeks through the window, but it doesn’t seem so bright” – take a moment to appreciate the simple yet powerful message of If You Ain’t Lovin’ (You Ain’t Livin’). It’s a reminder that life is meant to be lived, loved, and cherished.
Video
Lyrics
“If You Ain’t Lovin’ (You Ain’t Livin’)”
A bucket full of money and a tree full of honey,
But if you’re gettin’ no huggin’, no smoochin’ or a – muggin’.
If you ain’t lovin’, then you ain’t livin’.
If you’re ridin’ on a gravy train instead of walkin down lover’s lane,
You can’t make hay, boy, ’cause you’re goin’ the wrong way boy.
You gotta get a little honey, it’s better than money.
If you ain’t lovin’, then you ain’t livin’.
If they call you a big man ’cause you gotta lotta bottom land.
If you’re kin to the president and you help run the government,
But if you’re gettin’ no attention, you’re better off on a pension.
If you ain’t lovin’, then you ain’t livin’.
If you got a string of long cars and you’re smokin’ them four – bit cigars.
You ain’t no well to do unless you get a little koochi – koo.
It takes a little bit of smackin’ – all your life’s a – lackin’.
If you ain’t lovin’, then you ain’t livin’.