About the song

Roy Orbison’s “In Dreams” is a hauntingly beautiful masterpiece that resonates with listeners through its emotional depth and timeless quality. Released in 1963 as part of his album In Dreams, this song showcases Orbison’s distinctive voice and his unparalleled ability to convey deep sentiments through music.

The song opens with a melancholic orchestral arrangement that sets the stage for Orbison’s poignant lyrics and soaring vocals. It tells the story of a person who finds solace and longing in their dreams, where they can be with the one they love, despite the harsh realities of life. Orbison’s emotive delivery captures the bittersweet essence of yearning and the power of imagination to transcend everyday struggles.

“In Dreams” not only showcases Orbison’s vocal prowess but also highlights his unique songwriting talent. The lyrics, with lines like “A candy-colored clown they call the sandman,” evoke vivid imagery and a sense of nostalgia, resonating deeply with listeners of all ages. Orbison’s ability to blend melancholy with hopefulness in his lyrics is a testament to his skill as a storyteller.

Socially, “In Dreams” had a profound impact on popular culture and music. Orbison’s distinctive vocal style influenced countless artists across genres, from rock to pop to country. His ability to convey raw emotion through his music set him apart as a true legend in the industry. The song’s inclusion in various films and television shows over the decades has further solidified its status as a classic.

The orchestration of “In Dreams” complements Orbison’s vocals perfectly, creating a lush sonic landscape that enhances the song’s emotional impact. The orchestral arrangement, combined with Orbison’s powerful voice, creates a cinematic experience that transports listeners into the world of dreams and longing.

Overall, Roy Orbison’s “In Dreams” remains a timeless piece of music that continues to captivate audiences with its emotional depth and haunting beauty. Its universal themes of love, loss, and the power of dreams ensure its relevance across generations. Orbison’s legacy as a masterful singer-songwriter is firmly cemented with this iconic song, which stands as a testament to the enduring power of music to touch hearts and souls.

Whether you’re discovering it for the first time or revisiting it as a longtime fan, “In Dreams” by Roy Orbison is a poignant reminder of the beauty found in human emotions and the profound impact of exceptional musical artistry.

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Lyrics

A candy-colored clown they call the sandmanTiptoes to my room every nightJust to sprinkle stardust and to whisperGo to sleep, everything is alright
I close my eyes then I drift awayInto the magic night, I softly sayA silent prayer like dreamers doThen I fall asleep to dream my dreams of you
In dreams I walk with youIn dreams I talk to youIn dreams you’re mine all of the timeWe’re together in dreams, in dreams
But just before the dawnI awake and find you goneI can’t help itI can’t help itIf I cryI remember that you said goodbye
It’s too bad that all these thingsCan only happen in my dreamsOnly in dreamsIn beautiful dreams