About the song
“In My Dreams” is a poignant rock ballad by the American rock band REO Speedwagon, featured as the third single from their twelfth studio album, *Life as We Know It*. Released in 1987, the song exemplifies the band’s signature blend of emotive lyrics and powerful instrumentation. It achieved notable success, reaching No. 19 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 in October 1987, and climbing to No. 6 on the Adult Contemporary chart, highlighting its strong resonance with listeners who appreciated its sentimental and romantic qualities.
The song’s success was not confined to the U.S. alone; it also made a mark in Canada, peaking at No. 61 on the Canadian charts. “In My Dreams” captures the essence of REO Speedwagon’s ability to craft compelling power ballads that strike a chord with a wide audience. Its lyrical content delves into themes of longing and emotional depth, supported by a melodic arrangement that showcases the band’s rock roots while appealing to adult contemporary listeners.
Cash Box, a prominent music industry publication, described the song as a “sentimental and romantic spin” that was well-suited for both Adult Contemporary (AC) and Contemporary Hit Radio (CHR) formats. This endorsement underscores the track’s appeal across different radio formats, affirming its place in the musical landscape of the late 1980s.
Overall, “In My Dreams” stands out as a testament to REO Speedwagon’s ability to blend rock and romantic balladry, demonstrating their skill in creating music that resonates deeply with their audience. Its success on the charts and positive critical reception reflect its enduring appeal and the band’s continued relevance in the rock genre.
Video
Lyrics
There was a time some time ago
When every sunrise meant a sunny day
Oh, a sunny day
But now when the morning light shines in
It only disturbs the dreamland where I lay
Oh, where I lay
I used to thank the lord when I’d wake
For life and love and the golden sky above me
But now I pray the stars will go on shinin’
You see in my dreams you love me
Daybreak is a joyful time
Just listen to the songbird harmonies
Oh, the harmonies
But I wish the dawn would never come
I wish there was silence in the trees
Oh, the trees
If only I could stay asleep
At least I could pretend you’re thinkin’ of me
‘Cause night time is the one time I am happy
You see in my dreams
We climb and climb and at the top we fly
Let the world go on below us
We are lost in time
And I don’t know really what it means
All I know is that you love me, in my dreams
I keep hopin’ one day I’ll awaken
And somehow she’ll be lying by my side
And as I wonder if the dawn is really breakin’
She touches me and suddenly I’m alive
And, we climb and climb and at the top we fly
Let the world go on below us
We are lost in time
And I don’t know really what it means
All I know is that you love me
In my dreams
We climb and at the top we fly
Let the world go on below us
We are lost in time
And I don’t know really what it means
All I know is that you love me
In my dreams
Oh, oh, oh, oh, only
In my dreams