Live This Life starts with Wurlitzer and vocals, immediately setting a very tender tone. The lyrics give small instances of their life story that feel intimate and specific, like cutting their nails, growing a beard, and shaving it. These details paint a clear picture and ease the listener into the song. Lyrically, it touches on the struggle of how easy and complicated it can be to live one’s own life.
As the song develops, the piano is introduced along with an instrument that at times sounds like plucked strings, adding texture without taking away from the softness of the arrangement. One of the most beautiful elements is the mixture of male and female vocals, which adds warmth and emotional depth. There is a vintage quality to the recording that almost feels like it was recorded on tape.
The lead vocal shifts into a tone that at moments reminds me of John Lennon, giving the song a familiar but still personal feel. Overall, it is a very tender song, and that tenderness is completed by the mix and the gradual buildup in intensity. Everything feels intentional and restrained, allowing the emotion of the song to come through naturally.
Written by John Drifter (drifting.) (IG: @drifting.musically)
