When country fans talk about heartache, authenticity, and soul-stirring vocals, one name always rises to the top—Travis Tritt. Among his many hits, “Anymore” stands out as one of the most emotionally gripping songs in his catalog. And when performed live, especially on the electrifying 2002 album Live & Kickin’, the song takes on a raw, unforgettable intensity that continues to resonate with listeners decades later.
A Bit of History: The Rise of “Anymore”
Originally released in September 1991, “Anymore” was the second single from Tritt’s multi-platinum album It’s All About to Change. Written by Travis Tritt and Jill Colucci, the song struck a chord with fans and quickly climbed to #1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart.
But Anymore was more than just a chart-topper. It became the cornerstone of a larger story—both musically and visually. The track was part of a three-part music video series portraying a Vietnam veteran named Mac Singleton, played by Tritt himself, dealing with the trauma of war and the pain of lost love. The video’s cinematic storytelling pushed country music into new emotional territory, earning acclaim for its depth and social relevance.
Live & Kickin’: A Performance with Grit and Heart
Over a decade after its initial release, Travis Tritt breathed new life into the song with his 2002 live album Live & Kickin’. Recorded in front of a live audience, this version of Anymore strips away the polish of the studio and leaves behind something far more powerful: unfiltered emotion.
Tritt's soulful, blues-inflected voice is front and center. Every note carries the weight of the song’s central theme—a man wrestling with vulnerability and pride. The live instrumentation—particularly the rich steel guitar and gentle piano—creates an intimate atmosphere, making listeners feel like they're sitting in the front row of an unforgettable night.
The crowd’s reaction adds another layer of electricity to the performance. As Tritt delivers each line with aching sincerity, you can hear the audience responding, fully immersed in the emotion pouring from the stage.
Lyrics That Cut to the Core
At its heart, Anymore is a song about emotional honesty. The lyrics are simple, yet devastatingly effective:
“I can’t hide the way I feel about you anymore.I can’t hold the hurt inside, keep the pain out of my eyes anymore…”
The narrator admits that he’s tired of pretending, tired of holding back his feelings. It’s a confession—a moment of weakness that feels incredibly strong. That vulnerability, especially in a live setting, is what turns a good song into a classic.
Why Live & Kickin’ Matters
Live & Kickin’ wasn’t just a concert recording; it was a showcase of Travis Tritt’s range and artistry. Throughout the album, he blends Southern rock, honky-tonk, and blues, but Anymore stands as the emotional centerpiece. The live version shows Tritt’s dedication to storytelling, his vocal mastery, and his unique ability to connect with a crowd.
For fans of traditional country music who crave sincerity and grit, this performance is a masterclass. It’s a reminder of what country music can be when it's stripped to its emotional core—no gimmicks, no autotune, just a man, a song, and the truth.
A Legacy That Lives On
More than thirty years after its release, Anymore remains one of Travis Tritt’s signature songs. It's still a staple in his live sets, often met with standing ovations and emotional sing-alongs from fans who’ve lived through similar heartbreak.
In the era of quick-hit singles and viral trends, Anymore (from Live & Kickin’) reminds us that great music endures—because it speaks to something universal. Pain, love, regret, and hope. And when sung by someone as gifted and passionate as Travis Tritt, it becomes timeless.