About the song
“All I Have to Do Is Dream,” a classic song immortalized by the Everly Brothers, remains a cornerstone of American music history. Written by Boudleaux Bryant of the renowned songwriting duo Felice and Boudleaux Bryant, the song was first published in 1958 and swiftly became a global sensation.
Recorded in just two takes at RCA Studios Nashville, the Everly Brothers’ rendition of “All I Have to Do Is Dream” features Chet Atkins on guitar, adding to its timeless allure. Upon its release in April 1958, the song achieved unprecedented success, reaching number one on all of Billboard’s singles charts simultaneously—an achievement unrivaled at the time. It topped the “Best Sellers in Stores,” “Most Played by Jockeys,” and “Top 100” charts for multiple weeks, solidifying its place in music history.
Internationally, the song’s popularity soared, especially in the United Kingdom, where it topped the charts for seven consecutive weeks. Its widespread acclaim is further underscored by its inclusion on Rolling Stone magazine’s prestigious list of The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time and Q magazine’s compilation of the “1001 Best Songs Ever.”
Beyond its chart-topping success, “All I Have to Do Is Dream” holds cultural significance as one of the “500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll” according to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. In recognition of its enduring impact and influence, the song was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2004, cementing its legacy in the annals of music.
Interestingly, the B-side of the single, “Claudette,” marked the breakout success for Roy Orbison as a songwriter, influencing his career trajectory significantly. Orbison’s association with the Everly Brothers’ publisher, Acuff-Rose Music, following the success of “Claudette,” reshaped his musical journey and added another layer of historical significance to the single’s release.
“All I Have to Do Is Dream” continues to resonate across generations, its dreamy melody and heartfelt lyrics capturing the essence of timeless romance and longing. Its enduring popularity underscores its status not just as a hit song, but as a cultural touchstone that continues to enchant audiences worldwide.
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Lyrics
Dream, dream, dream, dream
Dream, dream, dream, dream
When I want you in my arms
When I want you and all your charms
Whenever I want you, all I have to do is
Dream, dream, dream, dream
When I feel blue in the night
And I need you to hold me tight
Whenever I want you, all I have to do is
Dream
I can make you mine, taste your lips of wine
Anytime, night or day
Only trouble is, gee whiz
I’m dreamin’ my life away
I need you so that I could die
I love you so and that is why
Whenever I want you, all I have to do is
Dream, dream, dream, dream
Dream
I can make you mine, taste your lips of wine
Anytime, night or day
Only trouble is, gee whiz
I’m dreamin’ my life away
I need you so that I could die
I love you so and that is why
Whenever I want you, all I have to do is
Dream, dream, dream, dream
Dream, dream, dream, dream
Dream, dream, dream, dream
Dream