About the song
## In Dreams: Roy Orbison’s Timeless Ballad
Roy Orbison, the “King of the Lonely Hearts,” delivered a timeless masterpiece with “In Dreams.” This haunting ballad, released in 1963, showcases Orbison’s distinctive baritone voice and his ability to evoke deep emotions through his lyrics and melody.
The song’s introspective nature invites listeners to delve into their own memories and feelings. Orbison’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of a dreamlike state, where the lines between reality and fantasy blur. The opening lines, “When I close my eyes, I can see you, baby,” immediately set the tone for a poignant exploration of love, loss, and longing.
Orbison’s vocal delivery is a key element in the song’s emotional impact. His rich, resonant voice conveys a sense of vulnerability and heartache, making the listener feel a deep connection to the character he portrays. The way he sustains notes and phrases adds a dramatic quality to the performance, emphasizing the intensity of the emotions being expressed.
The melody of “In Dreams” is both haunting and beautiful. The simple, repetitive chord progression provides a solid foundation for Orbison’s vocal performance, while the melodic line is filled with soaring highs and poignant lows. The bridge of the song introduces a minor key, adding a sense of melancholy and longing.
The instrumentation is sparse, allowing Orbison’s voice to take center stage. The guitar accompaniment is tasteful and understated, providing a gentle backdrop for the vocals. The use of reverb on the guitar adds a dreamlike quality to the sound, further enhancing the song’s atmosphere.
“In Dreams” is a classic example of Orbison’s songwriting ability. The song’s timeless appeal lies in its ability to connect with listeners on a deep emotional level. It is a testament to Orbison’s talent as a vocalist and songwriter, and it continues to resonate with audiences of all ages.
Video
Lyrics
A candy-colored clown they call the sandman
Tiptoes to my room every night
Just to sprinkle stardust and to whisper
Go to sleep, everything is alright
I close my eyes then I drift away
Into the magic night, I softly say
A silent prayer like dreamers do
Then I fall asleep to dream my dreams of you
In dreams I walk with you
In dreams I talk to you
In dreams you’re mine all of the time
We’re together in dreams, in dreams
But just before the dawn
I awake and find you gone
I can’t help it
I can’t help it
If I cry
I remember that you said goodbye
It’s too bad that all these things
Can only happen in my dreams
Only in dreams
In beautiful dreams