Article:
Join us on a captivating journey as we delve into the captivating story behind Ricky Van Shelton‘s chart-topping hit, “Living Proof.” This poignant ballad, penned by Johnny MacRae and Steve Clark, became Shelton’s sixth number one single, solidifying his position as a powerhouse in the country music scene.
Ricky’s triumphant reign of consecutive number one singles faced a momentary setback when his rendition of the Boudleaux and Felice Bryant composition, “Hole In My Pocket,” peaked at a respectable #4 in the summer of 1989. However, he swiftly returned to the pinnacle of success with “Living Proof,” the fourth single from his acclaimed album, “Loving Proof.”
Interestingly, Ricky had originally intended to name the album “Living Proof.” However, discussions within the CBS boardroom led to a modification, and the title was altered to “Loving Proof.” The concern stemmed from the similarity between the album title and Hank Williams, Jr.’s biography, titled “Living Proof.” Label executives aimed to avoid any potential confusion. Yet, after the album’s release, Shelton openly criticized Columbia Records, expressing regret for agreeing to the change. He firmly believed that any mix-up with Hank Williams, Jr.’s book would have been unlikely, and he lamented the decision to deviate from his initial vision.
Despite the perceived setback of an altered album title, “Loving Proof” thrived in the music industry. In December of ’88, the Recording Industry Association of America certified the album as gold. Furthermore, the readers of “Music City News” magazine bestowed the honor of “Album of the Year” upon Ricky for 1989. At the Music City News awards ceremony, Shelton walked away with four prestigious trophies, including “Male Vocalist of the Year” and two accolades for his fourth number one hit, “I’ll Leave This World Loving You” (“Single of the Year” and “Video of the Year”).
The creative partnership between Johnny MacRae and Steve Clark flourished in an idyllic setting. They often found inspiration at MacRae’s secluded cabin on Kentucky Lake, nestled approximately 25 miles southeast of Paducah, Kentucky, and 120 miles north of Nashville. The tranquil ambiance of this hideaway offered the perfect backdrop for their songwriting sessions. Johnny cherished the serenity of the place, noting that many of his successful compositions were born within those walls.
It is worth noting that Hank Williams, Jr.’s biography, also titled “Living Proof,” played a role in the alteration of Shelton’s album title. Hank had previously released a song called “Living Proof” twelve years prior, although it had not achieved significant success on the charts, peaking at a modest #38 in 1976. The label’s decision primarily revolved around avoiding confusion with the book.
Nevertheless, MacRae and Clark’s fresh creation, aptly titled “Living Proof,” found its way into the hands of Ricky Van Shelton. Despite Ricky’s previous string of hits, “Living Proof” faced a challenging journey on Billboard’s country chart. It made a less-than-ideal debut at #95, causing some apprehension within the Shelton camp. Only one record in history had debuted lower and reached the top: Freddy Fender’s “Before The Next Teardrop Falls” at #96. However, “Living Proof” gradually gained momentum, persevering through fourteen arduous weeks until it finally claimed the coveted #1 spot on October 21, 1989. This remarkable achievement marked Shelton’s sixth of ten number one hits.
Through resilience and unwavering dedication, Ricky Van Shelton’s “Living Proof” emerged as a triumphant anthem, captivating audiences with its heartfelt lyrics and Shelton’s incomparable vocals. This unforgettable song serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit of an artist and the enduring power of music to inspire and uplift.
- Album: Loving Proof
- Artist: Ricky Van Shelton
- Released: 1988
Lyrics
She hangs up the phone and her heart starts to pound
Someone just told her an old friend’s in town
And a million old feelings come rushing in
Start tearing to pieces what it took years to mend
She’s living proof, true love never dies
Through all of the heartaches and all the goodbyes
She just can’t forget it, Lord knows, she’s tried
She’s living proof, true love never dies
You answer the door and I say, “Hello”
If you don’t want to see me just tell me, I’ll go
But I can’t love without you, it’s only pretend
There’s no love like you’re sweet love, can we try it again?
We’re living proof, true love never dies
Through all of the heartaches and all the goodbyes
I just can’t forget you, Lord knows, I’ve tried
We’re living proof, true love never dies
Yes, we’re living proof, true love never dies
