Introduction:
In 1962, Elvis Presley, the reigning king of rock and roll, released a song that resonated deeply with his fans and captured the essence of the film it soundtracked. Follow That Dream, a mid-tempo rock and roll ballad with a strong country music influence, became an instant hit, showcasing Presley’s powerful vocals and undeniable charisma.
The song, written by Sherman Edwards and Norman Petty, was produced by Presley himself alongside Felton Jarvis. Edwards and Petty were experienced songwriters with a knack for crafting catchy tunes. Edwards, known for his work with Pat Boone and The Everly Brothers, brought a melodic sensibility to the track, while Petty, a producer and musician who co-founded the Norman Petty Recording Studio in Clovis, New Mexico, infused the song with the twangy spirit of country music. Presley, ever the creative force, is believed to have had a hand in shaping the song as well, ensuring it fit perfectly within the narrative of the film.
Follow That Dream was not just another Presley hit single. It served as the title track for the 1962 musical comedy film of the same name. The film starred Presley as Kirby Grant, a young man with dreams of becoming a singing cowboy. Kirby’s journey, filled with challenges and setbacks, mirrored the themes explored in the song – perseverance in the face of adversity and the unwavering pursuit of one’s aspirations.
The film, though not receiving the critical acclaim of some of Presley’s other movies, was a commercial success. Follow That Dream, released as part of a four-song EP alongside other tracks from the film, quickly became a fan favorite. The song reached number 15 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States, solidifying Presley’s place as a musical powerhouse. The EP itself achieved Gold and Platinum certification by the Recording Industry Association of America much later, in 1992, a testament to the song’s enduring popularity.
Follow That Dream’s lasting appeal lies in its relatable message. The song’s lyrics speak of chasing dreams, overcoming obstacles, and the unwavering belief in a brighter future. Presley’s impassioned delivery resonates with listeners, urging them to hold onto their dreams and fight for what they believe in. This theme of perseverance continues to resonate with audiences today, making Follow That Dream a timeless classic in Presley’s extensive catalog.
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Lyrics:
“Follow That Dream”
Follow that dream, I gotta follow that dream
Keep a-movin, move along, keep a moving
I’ve got to follow that dream wherever that dream may lead
I’ve got to follow that dream to find the love I needWhen your heart gets restless, time to move along
When your heart gets weary, time to sing a song
But when a dream is calling you,
There’s just one thing that you can doWell, you gotta follow that dream wherever that dream may lead
You gotta follow that dream to find the love you needKeep a-movin, move along, keep a moving
Got to find me someone whose heart is free
Someone to look for my dream with me
And when I find her I may find out
Just what my dreams are all aboutI’ve got to follow that dream wherever that dream may lead
I’ve got to follow that dream to find the love I needI’ve got to follow that dream wherever that dream may lead
I’ve got to follow that dream to find the love I needKeep a-movin, move along
Keep a-movin, move along
Keep a-movin, move along