About the song
Otis Redding, the soulful voice that captivated audiences worldwide, left an indelible mark on the music industry. His raw talent and emotional depth resonated with listeners of all ages, and his songs continue to be cherished to this day. Among his iconic repertoire, “I’ve Got Dreams to Remember” stands out as a timeless masterpiece that showcases Redding’s vocal prowess and heartfelt storytelling.
Released in 1965 as part of the album “Otis Redding Sings,” this soul ballad is a poignant reflection on the fleeting nature of dreams and the importance of cherishing memories. Redding’s soulful vocals, rich with emotion, paint a vivid picture of a man lost in contemplation. The song’s introspective lyrics, coupled with the lush orchestral arrangements, create a melancholic yet uplifting atmosphere that lingers long after the final note.
The opening lines, “I’ve got dreams to remember, places I’ve never been,” set the stage for a journey through the mind of a dreamer. Redding’s voice, filled with longing and nostalgia, transports the listener to a world of imagination and possibility. As the song progresses, he delves deeper into the bittersweet experience of dreaming, acknowledging the inevitable passage of time and the bittersweet nature of life.
The bridge of the song introduces a more hopeful tone, suggesting that even though dreams may fade, their memory can serve as a source of inspiration and comfort. Redding’s voice, filled with newfound determination, conveys a sense of resilience and a refusal to let go of his aspirations. The powerful chorus, “I’ve got dreams to remember, they’ll help me through the night,” reinforces this message of hope and perseverance.
“I’ve Got Dreams to Remember” is more than just a beautiful song; it is a testament to the enduring power of music to connect with the human spirit. Otis Redding’s soulful performance and the song’s evocative lyrics have made it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences of all generations. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering Redding’s music for the first time, this song is a must-listen that will leave you captivated and inspired.
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Lyrics
I’ve got dreams, dreams to remember
I’ve got dreams, dreams to remember
Honey, I saw you there last night
Another man’s arms holding you tight
Nobody knows what I feel inside
All I know, I walked away and cried
I’ve got dreams, dreams to remember
Listen to me (I’ve got dreams)
Rough dreams (dreams to remember)
I know you said he was just a friend
But I saw him kiss you again and again
These eyes of mine, they don’t fool me
Why did he hold you so tenderly?
I’ve got dreams, dreams to remember
Listen honey (I’ve got dreams)
Rough dreams (dreams to remember)
I still want you to stay
I still love you anyway
I don’t want you to ever leave
Girl, you just satisfy me, ooh-wee
Ooh yeah
I know you said he was just a friend
But I saw you kiss him again and again
These eyes of mine, they don’t fool me
Why did he hold you so tenderly?
I’ve got dreams, dreams to remember
Listen to me, mama
(I’ve got dreams) bad dreams
Rough dreams (dreams to remember)
Don’t make me suffer, don’t let
(I’ve got dreams) rough dreams (dreams)
Bad dreams (dreams to remember)