About the song
The Everly Brothers, a musical duo consisting of Don and Phil Everly, emerged as one of the most influential acts in the history of rock and roll. Their harmonies, which were often compared to those of the McGuire Sisters, became a defining characteristic of their sound. Among their many hits, “All I Have to Do Is Dream” stands out as a timeless classic that encapsulates the innocence and optimism of the early 1960s.
Released in 1958, “All I Have to Do Is Dream” was a departure from the rockabilly-inspired sound that had characterized the duo’s early career. The song’s arrangement is simpler, with a focus on the Everlys’ vocal harmonies and a gentle acoustic guitar accompaniment. The lyrics, written by Buddy Holly and Mike Stoller, express a sense of youthful longing and the belief that love can overcome any obstacle.
The song’s opening lines, “Dreamin’ of the days when we were young,” immediately set the tone for a nostalgic and sentimental ballad. The Everlys’ harmonies are particularly effective in conveying the longing and yearning expressed in the lyrics. The bridge of the song features a playful exchange between the two brothers, adding a touch of humor and lightheartedness to the overall mood.
“All I Have to Do Is Dream” was a massive commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s popularity helped to establish the Everly Brothers as one of the leading acts of the era. Their influence can be heard in the music of countless artists, from the Beatles to the Beach Boys.
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Lyrics
Drea-ea-ea-ea-eam, dream, dream, dream
Drea-ea-ea-ea-eam, 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
Drea-ea-ea-ea-eam, 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
Drea-ea-ea-ea-eam
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
Drea-ea-ea-ea-eam, dream, dream, dream
Drea-ea-ea-ea-eam
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
Drea-ea-ea-ea-eam, dream, dream, dream
Drea-ea-ea-ea-eam, dream, dream, dream
Drea-ea-ea-ea-eam, dream, dream, dream, dream