Introduction:
“If I Can Dream” is a powerful and inspiring song recorded by Elvis Presley in 1968, famously closing his iconic “’68 Comeback Special.” Written by Earl Brown, the song was inspired by the poignant social issues of the time, including the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., which had deeply affected Elvis. The lyrics echo the themes of hope and unity found in Dr. King’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech, urging a vision of a better, more harmonious future.
This heartfelt ballad was a direct response to the turbulent sociopolitical climate of the 1960s and marked a significant moment in Presley’s career. Breaking away from his manager Colonel Tom Parker’s preference for a Christmas-themed finale for the special, Elvis passionately embraced “If I Can Dream” after being introduced to it by the show’s director, Steve Binder. The song’s message resonated deeply with Elvis, who recorded it on June 23, 1968, delivering an emotional performance that showcased his commitment to its ideals.
Released as a single on November 22, 1968, the song reached #12 on the Billboard Hot 100. Despite not being a major chart-topper by Elvis standards, it has since been celebrated as one of his most significant works, capturing a transformative moment in his artistic journey. The emotional depth of “If I Can Dream,” combined with its stunning vocal delivery, has ensured its enduring legacy as a song of hope and determination.
Video:
Lyrics:
“If I Can Dream”
(from “Elvis (NBC TV Special)” soundtrack)
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