10 Best Songs With The Word ‘Dream’ In The Title

10 Best Songs With The Word 'Dream' In The Title

Feature Photo: Photography Stock Ruiz / Shutterstock.com

With this article, we started out paying respect to legendary Classics and then shifted gears to dig deep into some extraordinary music that doesn’t always get the acclaim it should. If there are some songs on this list that you’ve never heard of before or forgotten about, we hope this provides an entertaining read and listen because that’s what these articles are always just about.

# 10 – Dream On – Aerosmith

Let’s get this one out of the way. I love this song, but I have heard it so many times that I usually turn the radio at those opening notes. Still, you have to respect it and the band. They have given us so much joy through the years. Even though this was from their first album, this was not the song that fueled the band’s initial success. It only became a hit after the success of Toys in the Attic, but what a hit it became.

# 9 – Dream Weaver – Gary Wright

As a keyboard player, the late Gary Wroght has always been one of my heroes. “Dream Weaver,” released in 1975, stands as one of Gary Wright’s most iconic tracks, defining his career with its ethereal soundscape and spiritual undertones. The song was recorded at Sound Labs, Los Angeles, with Gary Wright handling lead vocals and keyboards. What set “Dream Weaver” apart was Wright’s innovative use of the synthesizer, making it one of the earliest tracks to rely almost entirely on the instrument, supported only by drums played by Jim Keltner. Wright himself produced the song alongside engineers Andy Johns and John Haeny, resulting in a sound that felt both futuristic and introspective. The track debuted on Wright’s The Dream Weaver album, which marked a shift in popular music production methods, showcasing the possibilities of the synthesizer in rock and pop.

Lyrically, “Dream Weaver” was inspired by Wright’s reading of Autobiography of a Yogi by Paramahansa Yogananda, reflecting themes of spiritual transcendence and the search for inner peace. Wright’s refrain, “Ooh, dream weaver, I believe you can get me through the night,” encapsulates the song’s meditative quality, offering listeners a moment of escape and reflection. The song resonates with universal feelings of longing and hope, creating a sonic journey that transports the listener. Critically, “Dream Weaver” reached number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1976,

Read More: Top 10 Gary Wright Songs

# 8 – I Can Dream About You – Dan Hartman

Written and produced by Hartman, the track was recorded in his personal recording studio in Connecticut. Released as part of the Streets of Fire soundtrack in 1984, the song also appeared on Hartman’s studio album of the same year, cementing its place in pop culture. Hartman performed all of the instruments and vocals on the recording, showcasing his versatility as a multi-instrumentalist and producer. The track became an instant classic, peaking at number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100, and its success contributed significantly to Hartman’s career resurgence in the 1980s.

Lyrically, “I Can Dream About You” is a poignant ode to unrequited love, where the narrator finds solace in dreaming about the one they can’t have. Lines such as “I can dream about you, if I can’t hold you tonight” highlight the bittersweet longing at the heart of the song. The infectious chorus and layered production amplify the emotional weight of the lyrics, making it both a danceable anthem and a heartfelt ballad. The song’s duality is what makes it so enduring, resonating with listeners who have experienced both the joy and the heartbreak of love. Hartman’s passionate delivery adds a personal touch to the narrative, making it feel like an intimate confession set to an irresistible groove.

The music video for “I Can Dream About You,” featuring the fictional band The Sorels, added another layer to the song’s legacy. While Hartman didn’t appear in the video, the integration with Streets of Fire showcased the song’s cinematic quality. Compared to other entries on this list, such as Gary Wright’s “Dream Weaver,” this track stands out for its vibrant, soulful energy and its ability to blur the lines between yearning and celebration. Both songs offer different takes on the concept of dreams, with Hartman’s leaning more toward romantic escapism than Wright’s ethereal introspection.

Read More: Top 10 Dan Hartman Songs

# 7 – Maria McKee – Peddlin’ Dreams

Maria McKee’s “Peddlin’ Dreams” stands as a hauntingly introspective track from her 2005 album of the same name. Written and produced by McKee alongside Jim Akin, the song reflects the artist’s signature blend of emotive storytelling and raw vocal delivery. Recorded in the intimate confines of her home studio in Los Angeles, the album represents a deeply personal era for McKee. This title track weaves an intricate tapestry of disillusionment and longing, encapsulating the struggles of ambition, fleeting hope, and the emotional toll of chasing unattainable ideals.

The lyrics of “Peddlin’ Dreams” are laced with metaphor and biting commentary, painting a picture of vulnerability in the face of lofty aspirations. Lines like “You’re peddlin’ dreams, givin’ ’em out like candy” convey a poignant critique of the illusions people sell themselves and others in pursuit of success or fulfillment. McKee’s delivery, filled with a yearning that borders on desperation, makes each line resonate with authenticity. The imagery of “a girl with the gold in her cheeks” serves as a striking symbol of fleeting beauty and empty promises, adding a layer of complexity to the song’s themes.

Musically, “Peddlin’ Dreams” is sparse yet impactful, featuring acoustic-driven instrumentation that allows McKee’s voice to take center stage. The subtle arrangements evoke a melancholic atmosphere, mirroring the emotional weight of the lyrics. Compared to other songs in this list, such as Gary Wright’s “Dream Weaver,” which offers a more celestial and uplifting perspective on dreams, McKee’s approach is grounded and visceral. Both tracks, however, showcase how dreams can serve as both inspiration and a source of heartbreak.

# 6 – Ellis Paul – City Of Silver Dreams

Ellis Paul’s “City of Silver Dreams” paints an evocative portrait of New York City during the holiday season, capturing both its grandeur and intimate magic. Released as part of his album City of Silver Dreams, the song exemplifies Paul’s ability to blend heartfelt storytelling with masterful songwriting. Recorded in a studio that allowed for his signature folk-inspired sound to shine, Paul’s performance is accompanied by lush instrumentation that complements his soothing vocals. The track is a testament to his skill as a songwriter, merging personal reflections with universal themes of wonder and connection.

Lyrically, “City of Silver Dreams” captures the enchantment of New York City as it transforms into a winter wonderland. Lines like “The windows in New York City / All dressed up with ribbons and smiles” and “They hung a star over Fifth Avenue” immerse listeners in a cinematic depiction of the city’s festive spirit. The chorus, with its imagery of glowing faces and ringing bells, evokes a shared sense of joy and community, underscoring the song’s central message of finding connection amidst the holiday bustle. The bridge, with its poignant observation that “this city will change you,” adds a layer of introspection, showcasing Paul’s ability to balance external imagery with internal emotion.

Musically, the arrangement is understated yet elegant, allowing the lyrics to take center stage. The inclusion of strings and subtle percussion creates a shimmering quality that mirrors the song’s title and thematic elements. Compared to other songs in this article, such as Gary Wright’s “Dream Weaver,” which explores ethereal and dreamlike escapism, “City of Silver Dreams” remains grounded, celebrating the tangible beauty and magic of a specific time and place. Both tracks, however, share a sense of transporting the listener to another world, whether through celestial or earthly dreams.

Ellis Paul’s “City of Silver Dreams” is a poignant addition to any collection of songs celebrating dreams, offering a warm, vivid, and heartfelt reflection on the power of place, memory, and connection. Its timeless quality ensures it will continue to resonate with listeners, particularly those who have experienced the magic of New York City during the holidays.

# 5 – Sweet Dream Fade – Laura Nyro

Laura Nyro’s “Sweet Dream Fade,” featured on her posthumously released album Angel in the Dark, is a poignant exploration of rekindling love and salvaging connections amidst life’s imperfections. Recorded in the late 1990s and produced by Eileen Silver-Lillywhite, the track highlights Nyro’s unparalleled ability to blend lyrical introspection with soulful musicality. The song features Nyro on piano and vocals, her expressive voice weaving through a gentle arrangement that emphasizes intimacy and emotional resonance.

The lyrics of “Sweet Dream Fade” poignantly address the fragility of dreams and relationships. Lines such as “Do you wanna make a sweet dream fade after all the tries we made?” capture the vulnerability inherent in love, while the plea to “never mind perfection” suggests an embrace of humanity’s flaws and complexities. The refrain, “Tonight, let’s be lovers again,” is both a tender invitation and a desperate bid to preserve what remains. Nyro’s evocative imagery, including the melancholic observation, “Kids cry, money flies away,” roots the song in the everyday struggles and joys of life, making it deeply relatable.

Musically, the track is a masterclass in subtlety. The restrained instrumentation allows Nyro’s vocal delivery and piano to shine, creating an intimate atmosphere that draws listeners into the song’s emotional core. Compared to other songs on this list, such as Ellis Paul’s “City of Silver Dreams,” which celebrates external wonder, “Sweet Dream Fade” turns inward, focusing on the personal and relational. Both tracks, however, share a dreamy quality that underscores their reflective themes, demonstrating the versatility of the dream motif in songwriting.

Read More: Top 10 Laura Nyro Songs

# 4 – Dreams I’ll Never See – Molly Hatchet

Molly Hatchet’s powerful cover of Gregg Allman’s “Dreams I’ll Never See,” featured on their 1978 debut album Molly Hatchet, is a blistering Southern rock reinterpretation of an introspective blues classic. The album was recorded at The Sound Pit in Atlanta, Georgia, and produced by Tom Werman and Pat Armstrong. This track, clocking in at over seven minutes, transforms the melancholy tone of the original Allman Brothers Band version into an electrifying anthem filled with searing guitar solos and unrelenting energy, cementing Molly Hatchet’s place in the pantheon of Southern rock greats.

The lyrics delve deeply into the universal struggle of reconciling one’s dreams with reality. Lines like “I’m hung up on dreams I’m never gonna see” capture the poignant sense of frustration and yearning, while the repeated plea for help, “Lord help me, babe,” reveals a raw vulnerability beneath the song’s muscular sound. Molly Hatchet’s rendition intensifies the original’s themes of longing and perseverance, with the band’s dual-guitar attack amplifying the emotional weight of the lyrics. The extended instrumental passages further emphasize the inner turmoil expressed in the song, showcasing the band’s technical prowess and their ability to convey profound emotion through their instruments.

Musically, “Dreams I’ll Never See” serves as a defining moment in Molly Hatchet’s career, blending the introspective blues roots of Southern rock with their distinctive hard-edged sound. Compared to other tracks on this list, such as Laura Nyro’s “Sweet Dream Fade,” which takes a more intimate approach to dreamlike themes, Molly Hatchet’s cover is expansive and grandiose. Both songs, however, grapple with the fragility of aspirations, offering different perspectives on the interplay between hope and reality.

Read More: 10 Essential Molly Hatchet Songs

# 3 – Girl From Last Night’s Dream – Coney Hatch

Coney Hatch’s “Girl From Last Night’s Dream,” from their 1985 album Friction, delves into the thrilling yet fleeting connection between dreams and desire. Recorded at Le Studio in Morin-Heights, Quebec, and produced by esteemed producer Max Norman, this track embodies the band’s distinctive hard rock sound with a melodic edge. Carl Dixon’s evocative vocals and Steve Shelski’s sharp guitar riffs create an atmospheric track, supported by Andy Curran’s steady basslines and Barry Connors’ driving drumming. The song reflects the polished yet raw energy of the album, which was pivotal in cementing the band’s place in the rock landscape.

Lyrically, “Girl From Last Night’s Dream” captures the bittersweet longing for an imagined connection that feels profoundly real. With lines like “I know dreams are what she’s made of, but I don’t want to say goodbye,” the song vividly portrays the tension between illusion and yearning. The dream sequence is depicted as vivid and exhilarating, as the narrator recounts their encounter with an elusive, idealized figure. The repeating chorus, “I wanna meet her, the girl from last night’s dream,” underscores the persistent desire for something unattainable yet hauntingly beautiful. The track’s dynamic shifts between verses and chorus mirror the emotional highs and lows of such a surreal experience.

In comparison to other songs on this list, “Girl From Last Night’s Dream” leans into the rock genre’s ability to turn abstract emotions into anthemic energy. Unlike the reflective tone of Gary Wright’s “Dream Weaver” or the wistful sentiment in Molly Hatchet’s “Dreams I’ll Never See,” this track takes a more visceral and immediate approach. Its focus on a vivid, momentary dreamscape aligns it closer to the narrative-driven storytelling of Laura Nyro’s “Sweet Dream Fade,” while maintaining its unique rock identity.

# 2 – Dream Train – Babylon A.D.

Babylon A.D.’s “Dream Train,” from their 1992 album Nothing Sacred, delivers a powerful blend of rock and storytelling that vividly captures the tension between dreams and harsh realities. Produced by the skilled Tom Werman and recorded at various locations including the iconic Record Plant in Los Angeles, this track highlights the band’s ability to craft compelling narratives through gritty vocals and dynamic instrumentation. With Derek Davis’s impassioned vocals leading the charge, complemented by Dan DeLaRosa and Ron Freschi’s guitar work, Jamey Pacheco’s driving drums, and Robb Reid’s solid basslines, the song embodies the band’s signature hard rock edge with a deeply reflective undercurrent.

Lyrically, “Dream Train” paints a poignant picture of life in the American South, juxtaposing the hope symbolized by a distant train whistle with the struggles of daily life. Lines like “Playing my guitar in that deep South Delta way” set a vivid scene of a simpler time, yet the story quickly turns toward the hardships faced by the narrator’s family. The image of the father, unable to find work due to factory closures, reflects a somber reality, while the dream of escape aboard the elusive “dream train” offers a glimmer of hope. The train becomes a metaphor for freedom and opportunity, but its distant whistle serves as a reminder of how unattainable those dreams often feel.

In the context of this list, “Dream Train” stands out for its evocative storytelling and its ability to merge personal struggle with a universal yearning for something better. While it shares thematic connections with Molly Hatchet’s “Dreams I’ll Never See” in its exploration of longing and escape, Babylon A.D.’s approach feels rawer and more immediate, steeped in bluesy rock influences. The imagery of a train as a vehicle for hope aligns it thematically with Ellis Paul’s “City of Silver Dreams,” yet “Dream Train” anchors itself more firmly in the grit of everyday struggles.

“Dream Train” is a testament to Babylon A.D.’s knack for weaving vivid narratives into their hard rock sound. Its combination of heartfelt lyrics, soulful melodies, and a driving rhythm captures the emotional weight of chasing dreams against all odds, making it a compelling addition to this list of songs that explore the depth and complexity of our aspirations.

# 1 – Everytime I Dream – Autograph

“Every Time I Dream” by Autograph, from their 1987 album Loud and Clear, stands as a poignant exploration of longing, desire, and the inescapable pull of a recurring love. The track was recorded as part of the band’s third studio album at the famed One on One Recording Studios in North Hollywood, California. Produced by Andy Johns, who was celebrated for his work with iconic acts like Led Zeppelin and The Rolling Stones, the song exhibits a polished, arena-rock sound. With Steve Plunkett’s emotive vocals, Steve Lynch’s intricate guitar solos, Randy Rand’s steady basslines, Steven Isham’s atmospheric keyboards, and Kenny Richards’ driving drums, the band delivers a power ballad that captures both the rawness and sophistication of their craft.

The lyrics of “Every Time I Dream” delve into the anguish and yearning of love that exists only in dreams. Lines like “You know I only dream of you” and “Wake up in a cold sweat, reaching out and calling your name” reflect the torment of a love that feels tangible yet remains just out of reach. The song builds a vivid narrative of longing through its haunting imagery, such as “Shadows are falling, moon’s getting bright,” which underscores the loneliness that intensifies with the night. The chorus acts as a cathartic release, blending vulnerability with an anthemic quality, creating an emotional connection with listeners who have experienced unrequited love or dreams that blur the lines between reality and fantasy.

In the context of this list, “Every Time I Dream” shares a thematic resonance with songs like “Dream Weaver” by Gary Wright, as both tracks use dreams as a metaphor for love and the subconscious pursuit of something unattainable. However, while “Dream Weaver” evokes a sense of spiritual transcendence, Autograph’s approach is grounded in raw emotion and heartache, making it distinctively grounded in the human experience. The song also pairs well with the yearning expressed in “Dreams I’ll Never See” by Molly Hatchet, though Autograph leans into the romantic rather than existential dimensions of dreaming.

“Every Time I Dream” is a shining example of Autograph’s ability to blend heartfelt storytelling with a dynamic rock sound. It showcases the band’s knack for crafting deeply personal yet universally relatable music, ensuring its place as a memorable entry in this exploration of songs with the word ‘dream’ in the title. The track’s emotional depth, combined with its polished production and passionate delivery, secures its legacy as an underrated gem of 1980s rock.