Fleetwood Mac – Dreams

About the song

Fleetwood Mac‘s “Dreams” is a quintessential track from the band’s iconic 1977 album, “Rumours”. Released on March 24, 1977, the song stands as one of Fleetwood Mac’s most enduring and beloved hits. It captures the essence of the band’s remarkable ability to blend emotional depth with a polished, rock sensibility, and it remains a defining piece of 1970s music.

The meaning behind “Dreams” revolves around themes of heartache and introspection. Written by Stevie Nicks, the song reflects on the end of a relationship and the sense of inevitability that often accompanies such transitions. The lyrics convey a sense of resigned melancholy, with Nicks urging her former lover to face the reality of their situation. The chorus, with its evocative lines, underscores the theme of moving on and the acceptance of change. The dreamy, ethereal quality of the song’s instrumentation complements the reflective nature of the lyrics, creating a melancholic yet uplifting atmosphere.

Released as a single from the album “Rumours”, “Dreams” played a crucial role in the album’s success, which is widely regarded as one of the best-selling albums of all time. The song reached number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, marking Fleetwood Mac’s first and only number-one hit in the United States. The commercial success of “Dreams” helped solidify the band’s position in the music industry and contributed to the album’s lasting impact.

Socially, “Dreams” reflects the tumultuous yet creative atmosphere that surrounded the recording of “Rumours”. The album was famously recorded during a period of intense personal and professional upheaval for the band members, which only served to deepen the emotional resonance of the songs. “Dreams” became an anthem for those experiencing the complexities of relationships and breakups, capturing the universal experience of navigating emotional changes. Its influence can be seen in its continued popularity and its frequent appearance in various media, from movies to commercials, demonstrating its lasting appeal.

In summary, “Dreams” by Fleetwood Mac is more than just a hit from the 1970s; it is a classic that continues to resonate with audiences across generations. Released in 1977 as part of the groundbreaking album “Rumours”, the song’s introspective lyrics and lush production embody the emotional depth and musical sophistication that define Fleetwood Mac’s legacy. Its enduring popularity and cultural impact underscore its place as one of the most memorable and influential songs of its era.

Video

Lyrics

Now here you go again
You say you want your freedom
Well, who am I to keep you down?
It’s only right that you should
Play the way you feel it
But listen carefully
To the sound of your loneliness

Like a heartbeat drives you mad
In the stillness of remembering what you had
And what you lost
And what you had
And what you lost

Oh, thunder only happens when it’s rainin’
Players only love you when they’re playin’
Say women, they will come and they will go
When the rain washes you clean, you’ll know
You’ll know

Now here I go again
I see the crystal visions
I keep my visions to myself
It’s only me who wants to wrap around your dreams
And have you any dreams you’d like to sell?
Dreams of loneliness

Like a heartbeat drives you mad
In the stillness of remembering what you had
And what you lost
And what you had
Ooh, what you lost

Thunder only happens when it’s rainin’
Players only love you when they’re playin’
Women, they will come and they will go
When the rain washes you clean, you’ll know
Oh, thunder only happens when it’s rainin’
Players only love you when they’re playin’
Say women, they will come and they will go
When the rain washes you clean, you’ll know
You’ll know
You will know
Oh, you’ll know