Michael Bolton – How Am I Supposed To Live Without You

About the song

“How Am I Supposed to Live Without You” is a poignant ballad that has resonated deeply with audiences since its inception in 1982. Co-written by Doug James and Michael Bolton, the song’s journey to prominence is intertwined with the careers of several notable artists, each bringing their own interpretation to its heartfelt lyrics.

Originally intended for Air Supply, the song found its first major success through Laura Branigan’s emotive rendition in 1983. As the second single from her album *Branigan 2*, it soared to the top of the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart and made significant waves in Canada as well. Despite lacking a music video, Branigan’s powerful vocal delivery on “How Am I Supposed to Live Without You” captivated audiences on shows like Solid Gold and Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve, cementing its place as a timeless classic in the realm of soft rock.

Branigan’s version wasn’t without controversy, as songwriter Gary William Friedman alleged similarities to his composition “Promise Me I’ll Feel This Way Tomorrow”. However, legal proceedings eventually cleared Branigan and the songwriters of any wrongdoing, solidifying the song’s legacy as an original and cherished work.

The song’s narrative prowess and emotional depth transcended decades, leading to Michael Bolton’s iconic rendition in 1989 for his album *Soul Provider*. Bolton’s soulful interpretation propelled “How Am I Supposed to Live Without You” to new heights, topping both the Billboard Hot 100 and Adult Contemporary charts. His version not only showcased his vocal prowess but also marked a significant career milestone, earning him a Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance.

The accompanying music video directed by Philip Rose and Greg Gold added visual storytelling to the song’s narrative, depicting Bolton’s turmoil and longing as he reflects on a relationship in flux. This visual narrative, combined with Bolton’s impassioned delivery, further solidified the song’s emotional impact and universal appeal.

Through Laura Branigan and Michael Bolton’s respective interpretations, “How Am I Supposed to Live Without You” remains a timeless anthem of heartache and resilience. Its ability to evoke profound emotions and connect with listeners across generations underscores its enduring legacy in the annals of popular music. Whether through Branigan’s initial chart-topping success or Bolton’s Grammy-winning rendition, the song continues to resonate as a poignant reflection on love, loss, and the enduring power of music to capture the human experience.

Video

Lyrics

“How Am I Supposed To Live Without You”

I could hardly believe it, when I heard the news today
I had to come and get it straight from you
They said you were leavin’, someone’s swept your heart away
From the look upon your face I see it’s true

So tell me all about it, tell me ’bout the plans you’re makin’
Oh, then tell me one thing more before I go

Tell me, how am I supposed to live without you?
Now that I’ve been loving you so long
How am I supposed to live without you
And how am I supposed to carry on?
When all that I’ve been livin’ for is gone

I’m too proud for cryin’, didn’t come here to break down
It’s just a dream of mine is coming to an end
And how can I blame you when I built my world around
The hope that one day we’d be so much more than friends?

I don’t wanna know the price I’m gonna pay for dreaming, oh
Even now it’s more than I can take

Tell me, how am I supposed to live without you?
Now that I’ve been loving you so long
How am I supposed to live without you
And how am I supposed to carry on?
When all that I’ve been livin’ for is gone

Now I don’t wanna know the price I’m gonna pay for dreaming
Oh, now that your dream has come true

Tell me, how am I supposed to live without you?
Now that I’ve been lovin’ you so long
How am I supposed to live without you
And how am I supposed to carry on?
When all that I’ve been livin’ for is gone