“How Do I Live” was written by Diane Warren in 1997 and was first performed by LeAnn Rimes for her album “You Light Up My Life: Inspirational Songs.” Another version was recorded by Trisha Yearwood, which became the featured track of the Nicolas Cage film “Con Air.” Both versions were released that same year.
RELATED: The Battle of Versions: LeAnn Rimes’ vs Trisha Yearwood’s “How Do I Live”
LeAnn Rimes was only 15 when she released the song as her sixth single. Her rendition of “How Do I Live” hit No. 2 for five weeks in late 1997 and early 1998. It was a huge success, setting the record for hitting the Billboard Hot 100 chart for almost sixty-nine weeks. This is one of those LeAnn Rimes greatest hits that skyrocketed her career, leading to a Grammy nomination.
A first in history happened during the 1998 Grammy Awards when two artists, LeAnn Rimes and Trisha Yearwood, were nominated for the same song in the same category. Although Rimes performed the song during the awards show, Yearwood won the Grammy for Best Country Vocal Performance.
For You
Meaning Behind the Song
“How Do I Live” is a country crossover ballad played countless times at weddings, funerals, or any event where life is celebrated. It explores an intense emotional love and dependence on a significant other. The lyrics express an overwhelming sentiment about the fear of losing a loved one, making it clear that that loss will result in an unbearable life.
During the 20th anniversary of LeAnn Rimes’ release of “How Do I Live,” she stripped the track down “to its essence” for the tour of her album “Remnants” in 2016. She re-recorded the song, highlighting a tempered tempo with a different vibe and tone. The updated version was released on Marcy 29, 2018, as LeAnn’s way of thanking her fans for their support in her career and to, of course, celebrate the song’s 20th anniversary.
Watch the hit song, “How Do I Live,” which launched LeAnn Rimes’ country music career.
