About The Song
"If I Can Dream" is a powerful and emotionally charged song recorded by Elvis Presley. It was written by Walter Earl Brown and was inspired by the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The song was recorded in 1968 and released as a single later that year.
The lyrics of "If I Can Dream" convey a message of hope, unity, and optimism during a tumultuous period in American history. Elvis Presley, known for his charismatic stage presence and powerful vocals, delivered a stirring performance that captured the spirit of the times. The song's message of hope and belief in a better future resonated with many listeners, providing a sense of solace during a period marked by social and political unrest.
The musical arrangement of "If I Can Dream" is grand and orchestral, featuring a dramatic buildup that complements the song's uplifting message. The backing vocals of the Imperials Quartet and the orchestration contribute to the song's powerful and inspirational impact. The arrangement was created to suit the tone of the lyrics and to reflect the monumental issues of the era.
Elvis Presley performed "If I Can Dream" for the first time on his '68 Comeback Special, a televised event that marked a significant moment in his career. The performance, with Elvis clad in a black leather suit, is remembered for its intensity and emotional resonance. The song became a pivotal part of Elvis's repertoire, and he continued to include it in his live performances.
"If I Can Dream" was released as a single and reached the top 20 on the charts. It has since become one of Elvis Presley's signature songs, celebrated for its uplifting message and the passion with which Presley delivered it. The song remains a powerful testament to the ability of music to inspire and provide a sense of hope during challenging times.
Video
Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
There must be lights burning brighter somewhere
Got to be birds flying higher in a sky more blue
If I can dream of a better land
Where all my brothers walk hand in hand
Tell me why, oh why, oh why can't my dream come true?
There must be peace and understanding sometime
Strong winds of promise that will blow away all the doubt and fear
If I can dream of a warmer sun
Where hope keeps shining on everyone
Tell me why, oh why, oh why won't that sun appear?
We're lost in a cloud with too much rain
We're trapped in a world that's troubled with pain
But as long as a man has the strength to dream
He can redeem his soul and fly
Deep in my heart there's a trembling question
Still I am sure that the answer's gonna come somehow
Out there in the dark, there's a beckoning candle
And while I can think,
While I can talk
While I can stand,
While I can walk
While I can dream,
Please let my dream come true... right now
Let it come true right now
Oh, yeah