“Love Is Like Oxygen” marked a turning point for the British glam rock band Sweet. Written by Andy Scott and Trevor Griffin, the track was featured on their album Level Headed and showcased a more sophisticated, progressive sound compared to their earlier, raw glam anthems like “Blockbuster” or “Ballroom Blitz.”
The song became one of Sweet’s most successful singles internationally, reaching No. 8 on the UK Singles Chart and climbing to No. 8 on the US Billboard Hot 100. Its unique structure, combining rock energy with symphonic elements, made it stand out as one of the band’s most ambitious works.
Sweet – Love Is Like Oxygen
The lyrics use the metaphor of oxygen to describe love—essential, life-giving, but also dangerous if consumed too much. This clever comparison captures the highs and lows of passion, reflecting both its intoxicating and overwhelming sides.
“Love Is Like Oxygen” earned Sweet a Grammy nomination in 1979 for Best Rock Vocal Performance by a Group.
The song is considered a progressive rock-inspired track, a departure from their glam rock roots.
It became Sweet’s last major worldwide hit, cementing their place in rock history.
The extended album version runs over six minutes, while the single version is around four minutes.
