Introduction:
“If I Can Dream” is one of Elvis Presley’s most iconic songs, released in 1968 as a single and featured in the closing segment of his television special, commonly known as the “Comeback Special.” This song marked a significant moment in Elvis’s career, coming after a period in which his popularity had waned due to years of focusing on movie soundtracks rather than mainstream chart-topping singles. Written by songwriter Walter Earl Brown, “If I Can Dream” was recorded on June 23, 1968, at Western Recorders in Hollywood, California, and was released later that year in November. It is classified as a soul and gospel-inspired ballad with deep roots in rock and roll.
The song was directly inspired by the tumultuous socio-political landscape of the 1960s, especially the assassinations of Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert F. Kennedy, both of which occurred in 1968. The song’s lyrics echo a desire for hope, unity, and a better future, drawing heavily on King’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech. It became an anthem for peace and change, reflecting Elvis’s desire to express his feelings about the critical social issues of the time.
“If I Can Dream” was featured as the final performance of Elvis’s NBC television special, which aired on December 3, 1968. The special itself was a pivotal moment for Presley, marking his return to live performances after a seven-year hiatus from the concert stage. The performance, staged in a more intimate setting, showcased a revitalized Elvis, donning his now-famous white suit. The song, with its powerful lyrics and passionate delivery, left an indelible mark on audiences and critics alike.
Upon its release, “If I Can Dream” achieved considerable commercial success. It reached No. 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and No. 6 on the UK Singles Chart. The song also became a staple in Elvis’s later live performances and continues to be celebrated for its inspirational message and profound emotional depth. Over the years, “If I Can Dream” has remained a poignant symbol of Elvis’s artistic growth, his engagement with contemporary issues, and his enduring legacy as a performer capable of blending heartfelt emotion with powerful music.
Video:
Lyrics:
“If I Can Dream”
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?Oh, why?There must be peace and understanding sometime
Strong winds of promise that will blow away 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 flyDeep in my heart there’s a trembling question
Still I am sure that the answer’s answer’s gonna come somehow
Out there in the dark, there’s a beckoning candle, yeah
And while I can think
While I can talk
While I can stand
While I can walk
While I can dream
Oh, please let my dream come true… right now
Let it come true right now
Oh, yeah