About The Song
“Dream a Little Dream of Me” is a classic song performed by the American vocal group The Mamas & The Papas. Released in 1968, it became one of their most beloved and enduring hits, known for its dreamy melody and romantic lyrics. Let’s explore the details of this timeless tune:
Background:
- Artists: “Dream a Little Dream of Me” was performed by The Mamas & The Papas, a vocal group consisting of Cass Elliot, Denny Doherty, Michelle Phillips, and John Phillips.
- Release Date: The song was released as a single in June 1968 by Dunhill Records.
- Original Version: While The Mamas & The Papas popularized the song, it was originally written in 1931 by Fabian Andre, Wilbur Schwandt, and Gus Kahn. Over the years, it has been covered by numerous artists.
Musical Style:
- Genre: “Dream a Little Dream of Me” is a jazz-influenced pop song, featuring lush harmonies, a gentle melody, and a relaxed tempo.
- Instrumentation: The recording includes vocals by The Mamas & The Papas, accompanied by soft instrumentation such as piano, guitar, and light percussion, creating a mellow and romantic atmosphere.
- Vocals: Cass Elliot’s rich contralto voice takes center stage, while harmonies from the group members add depth and warmth to the song.
Lyrics:
- Theme: The lyrics of “Dream a Little Dream of Me” convey a sense of longing and romantic yearning, as the singer expresses a desire for their loved one to dream of them during the night.
- Narrative: The song paints a dreamy and whimsical picture, inviting the listener to escape into a world of love and fantasy as they drift off to sleep.
- Memorable Lines: Iconic lines like “Stars shining bright above you / Night breezes seem to whisper ‘I love you’” evoke a sense of intimacy and romance, capturing the essence of the song’s sentiment.
Cultural Impact:
- Chart Success: “Dream a Little Dream of Me” achieved commercial success, reaching the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
- Cover Versions: The song has been covered by various artists over the years, including Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, and Doris Day, among others, attesting to its enduring popularity and timeless appeal.
- Legacy: “Dream a Little Dream of Me” remains a beloved classic, cherished for its nostalgic charm and romantic allure, and continues to be embraced by listeners of all ages.
Conclusion:
“Dream a Little Dream of Me” by The Mamas & The Papas is a timeless gem that has captivated audiences for generations with its enchanting melody, evocative lyrics, and lush vocal harmonies. As one of the signature songs of the 1960s, it holds a special place in the hearts of music lovers worldwide, serving as a reminder of the enduring power of love and the timeless appeal of classic pop music.
Video
Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
“…you keep pouring into one glass and you’re never changing the straw.”
“And now to sing this lovely ballad, here is…Mama Cass.”Stars shining bright above you;
Night breezes seem to whisper ‘I love you’.
Birds singing in the sycamore tree.
Dream a little dream of me.Say nighty-night and kiss me;
Just hold me tight and tell me you’ll miss me.
While I’m alone, blue as can be,
Dream a little dream of me.Stars fading but I linger on, dear –
Still craving your kiss.
I’m longing to linger till dawn, dear,
Just saying this…
Sweet dreams till sunbeams find you –
Sweet dreams that leave all worries behind you.
But in your dreams, whatever they be,
Dream a little dream of me.
Stars fading but I linger on, dear –
Still craving your kiss.
I’m longing to linger till dawn, dear,
Just saying this…
Sweet dreams till 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.
