About the song
Roy Orbison – In Dreams (Black & White Night 30)
There are certain songs that transcend mere popularity to become cultural touchstones, forever woven into the fabric of our collective memory. Roy Orbison’s “In Dreams” is undeniably one of those songs. Released in 1963, it quickly ascended the charts, captivating audiences with its haunting melody, operatic vocals, and dreamlike atmosphere. But it was Orbison’s legendary performance of “In Dreams” in the 1987 concert film Black & White Night that cemented its status as a timeless classic.
Black & White Night was a unique event, a concert featuring Orbison backed by an all-star band that included Bruce Springsteen, Elvis Costello, Tom Waits, and many others. Filmed in stark black and white, the concert captured Orbison at his finest, his voice a powerful instrument conveying both vulnerability and strength.
When Orbison launches into “In Dreams”, the effect is mesmerizing. The song, already imbued with a sense of longing and otherworldly beauty, takes on an even deeper resonance in this context. Orbison’s voice, with its remarkable range and emotional depth, soars over the delicate instrumentation, creating a moment of pure musical magic.
The performance is further enhanced by the stark visual aesthetic of the film. The black and white cinematography lends a timeless quality to the performance, while the camera work focuses intently on Orbison, capturing every nuance of his expression and every gesture. This intimate portrayal allows the viewer to connect with Orbison on a profound level, experiencing the raw emotion that he pours into every note.
What truly distinguishes this rendition of “In Dreams” is the palpable sense of vulnerability that Orbison conveys. He’s not simply singing a song; he’s inhabiting it, reliving the emotions of love, loss, and longing that lie at its heart. This raw honesty, combined with his unparalleled vocal prowess, creates a performance that is both deeply moving and unforgettable.
For those who experienced the original release of “In Dreams” in the 1960s, this Black & White Night performance offers a chance to revisit a cherished classic with fresh eyes and ears. For younger generations, it serves as an introduction to the artistry of one of music’s true legends. Regardless of one’s age or musical background, Orbison’s performance of “In Dreams” is a transcendent experience, a testament to the enduring power of music to move and inspire.
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