About the song
“Dream a Little Dream” marks a pivotal moment in the career of Cass Elliot, the renowned American singer, and her first solo venture following the disbandment of The Mamas & the Papas. Released in October 1968 under Dunhill Records, the album emerged amidst a backdrop of personal and professional transformation for Elliot, who chose to retain her familiar moniker, “Mama Cass,” despite her desire to carve out a distinct identity.
The genesis of “Dream a Little Dream” lay in Elliot’s swift agreement to a solo contract with Dunhill Records, mere weeks after parting ways with her former group. Opting for producer John Simon, noted for his work with The Band, Elliot sought creative freedom and autonomy over her musical direction. Eschewing the constraints she felt within The Mamas & the Papas, Elliot envisioned this album as a canvas to explore diverse genres—from country and blues to rock, jazz, and gospel.
Recorded in just ten days at Wally Heider’s studio in Los Angeles, the album’s production was marked by a departure from meticulous retakes, favoring live recordings and experimental techniques. Notably, “Dream a Little Dream of Me” opens with the ambient sounds of rain and a radio DJ’s voice, segueing into “California Earthquake,” illustrating Elliot’s innovative approach and narrative cohesion.
Despite initial resistance from Dunhill executives, who perceived the album as niche and hippie-centric, “Dream a Little Dream” garnered critical acclaim and achieved moderate commercial success, charting at #87 on the Billboard Hot 100. Elliot’s dissatisfaction with Dunhill’s marketing strategy underscored her belief that the album authentically reflected her artistic evolution and could have achieved greater mainstream recognition with proper promotion.
The album’s eclectic track listing features compositions from esteemed contemporaries like Leonard Cohen, John Sebastian, and Joni Mitchell, showcasing Elliot’s interpretative prowess and distinctive vocal style. Tracks such as “You Know Who I Am” and “Blues for Breakfast” resonate with emotional depth and musical versatility, affirming Elliot’s status as a solo artist of considerable range and influence.
“Dream a Little Dream” not only cemented Cass Elliot’s reputation as a formidable solo performer but also foreshadowed her enduring influence on the music industry. Its re-release in 2001 by MCA Japan reaffirms its timeless appeal and legacy, ensuring that Elliot’s artistic vision and creative audacity continue to resonate with audiences across generations.
Video
Lyrics
Stars shining bright above you
Night breezes seem to whisper “I love you”
Birds singin’ in the sycamore tree
Dream a little dream of meSay “nighty-night” and kiss me
Just hold me tight and tell me you’ll miss me
While I’m alone and blue as can be
Dream a little dream of meStars fading but I linger on, dear
Still craving your kiss
I’m longing to linger ’til dawn, dear
Just saying thisSweet dreams ’til sunbeams find you
Sweet dreams that leave all worries behind you
But in your dreams, whatever they be
Dream a little dream of meStars fading but I linger on, dear
Still craving your kiss
I’m longing to linger ’til dawn, dear
Just saying thisSweet dreams ’til sunbeams find you
Sweet dreams that leave all worries far behind you
But in your dreams, whatever they be
Dream a little dream of me