“Songs About Dreams” inspire listeners to chase their aspirations and explore the limitless possibilities of life, often conveying messages of hope, determination, and the power of imagination.
In this blog post, we’ll explore 33 of the best Songs About Dreams, spanning various genres and decades.
Dreams have always captured the human imagination, serving as a source of inspiration, reflection, and escape.
Music, with its ability to convey emotions and tell stories, has a unique way of exploring the concept of dreams.
For music lovers, songs about dreams offer a rich tapestry of lyrical poetry and melodic beauty.
You’ll discover the stories behind these songs, the artists who brought them to life, and the meaning they hold.
Whether you’re looking for inspiration or simply want to enjoy some great music with Songs About Dreams, this list has something for everyone.
1. “Dream On” by Aerosmith (1973) – Perfect Hard Rock Songs About Dreams
About this song:
- Album: Aerosmith
- Released: 1973
- Artist: Aerosmith
- Genre: Rock
- Key Lyric: “Dream on, dream until your dreams come true.”
Released in 1973 by Aerosmith, “Dream On” is a timeless classic that touches on the struggles and aspirations of life.
Written by Steven Tyler, the song’s meaning revolves around the idea of perseverance and holding onto dreams despite life’s challenges.
Tyler composed this song during a period of reflection, drawing from his own experiences of striving for success.
The haunting piano intro and powerful vocals make this song a favorite among rock enthusiasts.
2. “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” by Eurythmics (1983) – Best Synth-pop Songs About Dreams
About this song:
- Album: Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)
- Released: 1983
- Artist: Eurythmics
- Genre: Synth-pop
- Key Lyric: “Sweet dreams are made of this, who am I to disagree?”
Annie Lennox and David A. Stewart of Eurythmics released “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” in 1983.
The song explores the duality of dreams, both sweet and nightmarish, and the pursuit of desires.
Written during a tumultuous time in their career, Lennox and Stewart channeled their frustrations and ambitions into this synth-pop masterpiece.
The catchy melody and striking visuals of the music video have made it an iconic track.
3. “Boulevard of Broken Dreams” by Green Day (2004) – Recommended Emo Songs About Dreams
About this song:
- Album: American Idiot
- Released: 2004
- Artist: Green Day
- Genre: Alternative Rock
- Key Lyric: “I walk a lonely road, the only one that I have ever known.”
Green Day’s “Boulevard of Broken Dreams” was released in 2004 as part of their critically acclaimed album “American Idiot.”
Billie Joe Armstrong wrote the song, which reflects feelings of loneliness and longing while walking a solitary path.
Composed during a period of personal and political unrest, the song resonates with those who feel disconnected from their dreams.
Its anthemic quality and poignant lyrics have made it a modern rock staple.
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4. “Daydream Believer” by The Monkees (1967) – Awesome Folk Song
About this song:
- Album: The Birds, The Bees & The Monkees
- Released: 1967
- Artist: The Monkees
- Genre: Pop Rock
- Key Lyric: “Cheer up, sleepy Jean, oh, what can it mean.”
“Daydream Believer” by The Monkees was released in 1967 and quickly became a feel-good anthem.
Written by John Stewart, the song captures the essence of finding joy in daydreams amidst everyday life.
Stewart composed it while reflecting on the fleeting nature of happiness and the importance of holding onto simple pleasures.
The cheerful melody and uplifting lyrics make it a beloved classic.
5. “Dreams” by Fleetwood Mac (1977) – Remarkable Folk Songs About Dreams
About this song:
- Album: Rumours
- Released: 1977
- Artist: Fleetwood Mac
- Genre: Rock
- Key Lyric: “Thunder only happens when it’s raining.”
Fleetwood Mac’s “Dreams,” released in 1977, is a soulful exploration of longing and heartbreak.
Stevie Nicks wrote the song during the turbulent recording sessions for the album “Rumours.”
The lyrics reflect her personal experiences and the emotional turmoil within the band at the time.
Nicks’ ethereal voice and the song’s haunting rhythm have made it a timeless favorite.
6. “Don’t Dream It’s Over” by Crowded House (1986) – Stunning Pop Rock Song
About this song:
- Album: Crowded House
- Released: 1986
- Artist: Crowded House
- Genre: Rock
- Key Lyric: “Hey now, hey now, don’t dream it’s over.”
Crowded House released “Don’t Dream It’s Over” in 1986, a song that speaks to resilience and hope.
Written by Neil Finn, the song’s meaning revolves around overcoming obstacles and not letting dreams be thwarted.
Composed during a period of uncertainty for the band, Finn’s lyrics offer a message of perseverance.
The song’s soothing melody and heartfelt vocals have resonated with listeners worldwide.
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7. “Only in My Dreams” by Debbie Gibson (1986) – Excellent Pop Songs About Dreams
About this song:
- Album: Out of the Blue
- Released: 1986
- Artist: Debbie Gibson
- Genre: Pop
- Key Lyric: “Only in my dreams as real as it may seem.”
Debbie Gibson’s “Only in My Dreams,” released in 1986, is a vibrant pop song about youthful romantic fantasies.
Gibson, who wrote the song at the age of sixteen, captures the excitement and optimism of first love.
The lyrics depict a dream world where desires and emotions come to life.
Her spirited performance and catchy tune made this song a hit among young audiences.
8. “Dreams” by The Cranberries (1992) – Wonderful Rock Song
About this song:
- Album: Everybody Else Is Doing It, So Why Can’t We?
- Released: 1992
- Artist: The Cranberries
- Genre: Alternative Rock
- Key Lyric: “Oh, my life is changing every day, in every possible way.”
The Cranberries released “Dreams” in 1992, a song that captures the euphoria of new love.
Written by Dolores O’Riordan, the song reflects her personal experiences and the elation of falling deeply in love.
Composed during the early days of the band’s career, the song’s dreamy melody and O’Riordan’s distinctive voice have made it a beloved track.
9. “In Dreams” by Roy Orbison (1963) – Ideal Rock Songs About Dreams
About this song:
- Album: In Dreams
- Released: 1963
- Artist: Roy Orbison
- Genre: Rock and Roll
- Key Lyric: “In dreams I walk with you, in dreams I talk to you.”
Roy Orbison’s “In Dreams,” released in 1963, is a hauntingly beautiful ballad about love and longing.
Orbison wrote the song after experiencing vivid dreams about a lost love.
The lyrics capture the ethereal quality of dreams and their emotional impact.
Orbison’s operatic voice and the song’s lush arrangement have made it a timeless classic.
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10. “Street of Dreams” by Rainbow (1983) – Amazing Soft Rock Song
About this song:
- Album: Bent Out of Shape
- Released: 1983
- Artist: Rainbow
- Genre: Rock
- Key Lyric: “I can hear you calling me in the middle of the night.”
Rainbow’s “Street of Dreams,” released in 1983, is a powerful rock ballad about yearning and destiny.
Written by Ritchie Blackmore and Joe Lynn Turner, the song explores the concept of following one’s dreams despite challenges.
Composed during a period of transition for the band, the song’s emotive lyrics and soaring melody resonate with listeners.
11. “Talkin’ ‘Bout a Revolution” by Tracy Chapman (1988)
About this song:
- Album: Tracy Chapman
- Released: 1988
- Artist: Tracy Chapman
- Genre: Folk Rock
- Key Lyric: “Don’t you know, they’re talkin’ ’bout a revolution.”
Released in 1988, Tracy Chapman’s “Talkin’ ‘Bout a Revolution” is an anthem for social change and empowerment.
Chapman wrote the song to inspire marginalized communities to stand up for their dreams.
The song’s poignant lyrics and folk-inspired melody have made it a symbol of hope and resilience.
12. “Running Down a Dream” by Tom Petty (1989)
About this song:
- Album: Full Moon Fever
- Released: 1989
- Artist: Tom Petty
- Genre: Rock
- Key Lyric: “Running down a dream, that never would come to me.”
Tom Petty’s “Running Down a Dream,” released in 1989, is an energetic rock anthem about pursuing one’s aspirations.
Petty wrote the song to capture the exhilaration of following a passion.
Composed during a productive period in his career, the song’s driving beat and guitar riffs have made it a fan favorite.
13. “California Dreamin'” by The Mamas & The Papas (1965)
About this song:
- Album: If You Can Believe Your Eyes and Ears
- Released: 1965
- Artist: The Mamas & The Papas
- Genre: Folk Rock
- Key Lyric: “All the leaves are brown and the sky is gray.”
The Mamas & The Papas released “California Dreamin'” in 1965, a song about longing for warmth and sunshine.
Written by John and Michelle Phillips during a cold New York winter, the song captures their desire to return to California.
The evocative lyrics and harmonious vocals have made it an enduring classic.
14. “Dreams” by The Corrs (1998)
About this song:
- Album: Talk on Corners
- Released: 1998
- Artist: The Corrs
- Genre: Pop Rock
- Key Lyric: “Dreams can come true, look at me babe if I’m with you.”
The Corrs’ “Dreams,” released in 1998, is a Celtic-inspired cover of Fleetwood Mac’s classic.
The Corrs added their unique blend of traditional Irish music to the song, creating a fresh interpretation.
Their harmonious vocals and instrumental arrangements breathe new life into the original, making it a standout track.
15. “Enter Sandman” by Metallica (1991)
About this song:
- Album: Metallica
- Released: 1991
- Artist: Metallica
- Genre: Heavy Metal
- Key Lyric: “Exit light, enter night, take my hand, we’re off to never-never land.”
Metallica’s “Enter Sandman,” released in 1991, is a heavy metal anthem about fear and nightmares.
Written by James Hetfield, the song explores the darker side of dreams and the anxiety they can evoke.
Composed during the band’s rise to fame, the song’s aggressive riffs and haunting lyrics have made it a defining track in their career.
16. “I Have a Dream” by ABBA (1979)
About this song:
- Album: Voulez-Vous
- Released: 1979
- Artist: ABBA
- Genre: Pop
- Key Lyric: “I have a dream, a song to sing, to help me cope with anything.”
ABBA’s “I Have a Dream,” released in 1979, is an uplifting song about hope and aspirations.
Written by Björn Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson, the song encourages listeners to believe in their dreams.
The inspirational lyrics and the band’s harmonious performance have made it a beloved anthem of positivity.
17. “Dreams” by Gabrielle (1993)
About this song:
- Album: Find Your Way
- Released: 1993
- Artist: Gabrielle
- Genre: R&B
- Key Lyric: “Dreams can come true, look at me babe I’m with you.”
Gabrielle’s “Dreams,” released in 1993, is a soulful R&B track about perseverance and achieving one’s goals.
Written by Gabrielle and Tim Laws, the song reflects her personal struggles and determination to succeed.
The motivational lyrics and Gabrielle’s powerful voice have made it an empowering anthem.
18. “Dreamlover” by Mariah Carey (1993)
About this song:
- Album: Music Box
- Released: 1993
- Artist: Mariah Carey
- Genre: Pop
- Key Lyric: “Dreamlover come rescue me, take me up, take me down.”
Mariah Carey’s “Dreamlover,” released in 1993, is a joyful pop song about finding the perfect romantic partner.
Written by Carey, Dave Hall, and Walter Afanasieff, the song captures the excitement of new love.
The catchy melody and Carey’s vocal prowess have made it a chart-topping hit.
19. “Dreams” by Beck (2015)
About this song:
- Album: Colors
- Released: 2015
- Artist: Beck
- Genre: Alternative Rock
- Key Lyric: “And I’m gonna swim to the greatest depths of the ocean.”
Beck’s “Dreams,” released in 2015, is an upbeat indie rock song about the pursuit of happiness.
Written by Beck, Greg Kurstin, and Andrew Wyatt, the song reflects the search for fulfillment and joy.
The energetic tempo and inventive production make it a standout track in Beck’s discography.
20. “Dreams” by The Allman Brothers Band (1969)
About this song:
- Album: The Allman Brothers Band
- Released: 1969
- Artist: The Allman Brothers Band
- Genre: Southern Rock
- Key Lyric: “Just one more morning, I had to wake up with the blues.”
The Allman Brothers Band’s “Dreams,” released in 1969, is a blues-rock song about longing and reflection.
Written by Gregg Allman, the song captures his introspective thoughts and emotions.
The soulful guitar solos and Allman’s heartfelt vocals create a mesmerizing track.
21. “Dreaming of You” by Selena (1995)
About this song:
- Album: Dreaming of You
- Released: 1995
- Artist: Selena
- Genre: Tejano
- Key Lyric: “Late at night when all the world is sleeping, I stay up and think of you.”
Selena’s “Dreaming of You,” released in 1995, is a heartfelt ballad about love and longing.
Written by Franne Golde and Tom Snow, the song captures Selena’s aspirations and romantic dreams.
The poignant lyrics and Selena’s emotive voice have made it a cherished classic.
22. “Dreaming” by Blondie (1979)
About this song:
- Album: Eat to the Beat
- Released: 1979
- Artist: Blondie
- Genre: New Wave
- Key Lyric: “Dreaming is free, dreaming, dreaming is free.”
Blondie’s “Dreaming,” released in 1979, is a new wave song about the allure of dreams and possibilities.
Written by Debbie Harry and Chris Stein, the song reflects the excitement of chasing one’s desires.
The upbeat tempo and Harry’s charismatic performance make it a memorable track.
23. “Dreams” by Fleetwood Mac (Acoustic Version 2018)
About this song:
- Album: Rumours (Super Deluxe Edition)
- Released: 2018
- Artist: Fleetwood Mac
- Genre: Rock
- Key Lyric: “Now here you go again, you say you want your freedom.”
Fleetwood Mac’s acoustic version of “Dreams,” recorded in 2018, offers a stripped-down and intimate take on the classic.
Stevie Nicks’ enchanting vocals and the acoustic arrangement create a serene and reflective atmosphere.
This version showcases the timeless beauty of the song.
24. “Dreams” by Diana DeGarmo (2004)
About this song:
- Album: Blue Skies
- Released: 2004
- Artist: Diana DeGarmo
- Genre: Pop
- Key Lyric: “Cause I want to follow my dreams.”
Diana DeGarmo’s “Dreams,” released in 2004, is a pop song about hope and determination.
Written by Desmond Child and Andreas Carlsson, the song reflects DeGarmo’s aspirations as a young artist.
The inspirational lyrics and DeGarmo’s vibrant performance resonated with fans of her rise on “American Idol.”
25. “Dream Weaver” by Gary Wright (1975)
About this song:
- Album: The Dream Weaver
- Released: 1975
- Artist: Gary Wright
- Genre: Rock
- Key Lyric: “Ooh dream weaver, I believe you can get me through the night.”
Gary Wright’s “Dream Weaver,” released in 1975, is a rock song about the power of dreams and imagination.
Written by Wright, the song was inspired by a spiritual book and reflects his introspective thoughts.
The ethereal production and Wright’s soothing vocals create a dreamlike atmosphere.
26. “Just My Imagination” by The Temptations (1971)
About this song:
- Album: Sky’s the Limit
- Released: 1971
- Artist: The Temptations
- Genre: Soul
- Key Lyric: “Just my imagination, running away with me.”
The Temptations’ “Just My Imagination,” released in 1971, is a soulful ballad about romantic daydreams.
Written by Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong, the song captures the longing and fantasy of unrequited love.
The smooth harmonies and heartfelt lyrics have made it a timeless classic.
27. “Dreams” by Van Halen (1986)
About this song:
- Album: 5150
- Released: 1986
- Artist: Van Halen
- Genre: Rock
- Key Lyric: “We’ll get higher and higher, straight up we’ll climb.”
Van Halen’s “Dreams,” released in 1986, is an energetic rock anthem about ambition and reaching for the stars.
Written by the band members, the song reflects their drive and determination.
The powerful vocals and electrifying guitar solos make it a motivational track.
28. “Dreams Can Come True” by Gabrielle (1993)
About this song:
- Album: Find Your Way
- Released: 1993
- Artist: Gabrielle
- Genre: R&B
- Key Lyric: “Dreams can come true, look at me babe I’m with you.”
Gabrielle’s “Dreams Can Come True,” released in 1993, is an empowering R&B anthem about achieving one’s dreams.
Written by Gabrielle and Tim Laws, the song encourages listeners to believe in themselves.
The uplifting lyrics and Gabrielle’s soulful voice have made it an enduring hit.
29. “Dreaming” by Aurora (2019)
About this song:
- Album: Infections of a Different Kind
- Released: 2019
- Artist: Aurora
- Genre: Electropop
- Key Lyric: “Dreaming, I was only dreaming.”
Aurora’s “Dreaming,” released in 2019, is an ethereal pop song about the beauty of dreams.
Written by Aurora, the song reflects her introspective and imaginative nature.
The captivating melody and Aurora’s haunting vocals create a magical atmosphere.
30. “Dreams” by The Game (2005)
About this song:
- Album: The Documentary
- Released: 2005
- Artist: The Game
- Genre: Hip-Hop
- Key Lyric: “Dreams of living life like rappers do.”
The Game’s “Dreams,” released in 2005, is a hip-hop track about his aspirations and struggles.
Written by The Game and Kanye West, the song reflects on his journey to success.
The introspective lyrics and powerful beat make it a standout in his discography.
31. “Dreams” by Brandi Carlile (2009)
About this song:
- Album: Give Up the Ghost
- Released: 2009
- Artist: Brandi Carlile
- Genre: Folk Rock
- Key Lyric: “I have these dreams where I’m a thousand miles away.”
Brandi Carlile’s “Dreams,” released in 2009, is a folk-rock song about hope and perseverance.
Written by Carlile, the song reflects her personal experiences and aspirations.
The heartfelt lyrics and Carlile’s emotive voice make it a moving track.
32. “Dreams” by Fleetwood Mac (Live Version 1997)
About this song:
- Album: The Dance
- Released: 1997
- Artist: Fleetwood Mac
- Genre: Rock
- Key Lyric: “Players only love you when they’re playing.”
Fleetwood Mac’s live version of “Dreams,” recorded in 1997, captures the energy and emotion of their iconic song.
Stevie Nicks’ dynamic performance and the band’s live instrumentation create a powerful rendition.
This version highlights the enduring appeal of the classic.
33. “Dreams” by Passion Pit (2009)
About this song:
- Album: Manners
- Released: 2009
- Artist: Passion Pit
- Genre: Electropop
- Key Lyric: “Dreams, dreams, dreams, come on, dreams.”
Passion Pit’s “Dreams,” released in 2009, is an indie pop song about youthful aspirations and fantasies.
Written by Michael Angelakos, the song reflects his imaginative and hopeful mindset.
The upbeat tempo and vibrant production make it a catchy and uplifting track.
Conlcusion
Dreams, in all their forms, continue to inspire musicians and listeners alike.
From rock anthems to soulful ballads, these songs capture the essence of dreams and the emotions they evoke.
Whether you’re seeking motivation, solace, or simply a moment of escapism, this list offers a musical journey through the world of dreams.
Explore the songs about dreams, and let them inspire your own dreams and aspirations.