About the song
Roy Orbison, the “King of Hearts,” crafted a masterpiece that has resonated with audiences for decades. “In Dreams,” a hauntingly beautiful operatic rock ballad, is a testament to his extraordinary vocal range and songwriting prowess. Released in 1963, the song quickly captured the hearts of listeners with its poignant exploration of lost love and longing.
Orbison’s distinctive baritone voice, capable of soaring through two octaves, sets the stage for a truly emotional experience. The song’s unique through-composed structure, divided into seven movements, allows for a rich tapestry of musical expression. Each movement, with its distinct melody and mood, contributes to the overall narrative of heartbreak and yearning.
The lyrics of “In Dreams” paint a vivid picture of a lost love that continues to haunt the narrator. Orbison’s heartfelt delivery conveys the depth of his sorrow and the enduring power of memory. The song’s haunting melody, coupled with Orbison’s emotive vocals, creates a sense of melancholy and longing that lingers long after the final note.
“In Dreams” achieved commercial success, reaching number 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts and charting in the United Kingdom for an extended period. The song’s popularity was further solidified in 1987 when Orbison released a re-recorded anthology of his greatest hits. David Lynch’s provocative use of the song in his film “Blue Velvet” helped to revive interest in Orbison’s music and introduced a new generation to his timeless masterpiece.
The theme of lost love and longing that permeates “In Dreams” is a recurring motif in Orbison’s music. Several collections of his songs share the title of this iconic ballad, underscoring its significance in his discography. In 2012, Rolling Stone magazine recognized the enduring power of “In Dreams” by ranking it at number 319 on their list of the “500 Greatest Songs of All Time.”
Orbison’s “In Dreams” is more than just a popular song; it is a timeless piece of art that continues to captivate audiences with its beauty and emotional depth. The song’s haunting melody, coupled with Orbison’s extraordinary vocal performance, make it a truly unforgettable listening experience.
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Lyrics
A candy-colored clown they call the sandman
Tiptoes to my room every night
Just to sprinkle stardust and to whisper
Go to sleep, everything is alright
I close my eyes then I drift away
Into the magic night, I softly say
A silent prayer like dreamers do
Then I fall asleep to dream my dreams of you
In dreams I walk with you
In dreams I talk to you
In dreams you’re mine all of the time
We’re together in dreams, in dreams
But just before the dawn
I awake and find you gone
I can’t help it
I can’t help it
If I cry
I remember that you said goodbye
It’s too bad that all these things
Can only happen in my dreams
Only in dreams
In beautiful dreams