“Dreams” is one of the most uplifting and dreamy tracks from the 90s alternative rock scene. Released by Irish band The Cranberries in 1992 (and re-released in 1994), it’s a timeless anthem about the magic of new love. With Dolores O’Riordan’s ethereal voice and soaring “la-la-la” hooks, the song captures pure joy and wonder.
Whether you’re rediscovering it on a playlist, using it in a video, or just singing along, here’s everything you need: full lyrics, song meaning, history, and more.
Full Lyrics: “Dreams” by The Cranberries
Verse 1
Oh, my life is changing everyday
In every possible way
And oh, my dreams
It’s never quite as it seems
Never quite as it seems
Verse 2
I know I’ve felt like this before
But now I’m feeling it even more
Because it came from you
Then I open up and see
The person falling here is me
A different way to be
Pre-Chorus
Ah, la ya la la ya
La-ah ah ah
Chorus
I want more, impossible to ignore
Impossible to ignore
And they’ll come true, impossible not to do
Impossible not to do
Verse 3
And now I tell you openly
You have my heart so don’t hurt me
You’re what I couldn’t find
A totally amazing mind
So understanding and so kind
You’re everything to me
Outro
Oh, my life is changing everyday
In every possible way
And oh, my dreams
It’s never quite as it seems
‘Cause you’re a dream to me
Dream to me
(The famous “la-la-la” vocalizations appear throughout, especially building in the bridge.)
Song Meaning & Inspiration
“Dreams” is a celebration of first love and the transformative power of romance. Dolores O’Riordan wrote it about her first serious relationship when she was young in Ireland.
- Key Theme: Life feels brighter and full of possibility when you meet someone who truly sees you.
- Personal Touch: Dolores described it as “feeling really in love for the first time”—pure euphoria and vulnerability.
- Uplifting Message: The repeated “impossible to ignore” and “they’ll come true” lines reflect how love makes dreams feel achievable.
Interestingly, backing vocals at the end were sung by Mike Mahoney—Dolores’ ex-boyfriend at the time!
Background & History
- Release: Debut single in 1992 from album Everybody Else Is Doing It, So Why Can’t We? (1993). Re-released in 1994 after “Linger” success.
- Chart Performance: Hit top 30 in UK, top 50 in US Hot 100.
- Music Videos: Three versions exist—one with the band on a couch (iconic album vibe), one aquatic-themed, and one with a surreal grave-robber storyline.
- Legacy: Featured in films like Mission: Impossible and You’ve Got Mail. Covered by artists like Faye Wong (Cantonese “Dream Lover”) and Dario G (“Dream to Me”).
- 2025 Note: The song continues to inspire acoustic covers and TikTok trends for feel-good nostalgia.
Why “Dreams” Still Resonates in 2025
- Timeless Sound: Jangly guitars, dreamy synths, and Dolores’ unique yodel-like vocals.
- Positive Vibes: In a world of angsty 90s hits, “Dreams” is pure optimism.
- Cultural Impact: Used in ads, weddings, and playlists for “feel-good 90s” vibes.
If you’re a fan, check out the acoustic version from Something Else (2017)—stripped-down and beautiful.
What’s your favorite part of “Dreams”? The “la-la-la” bridge? The lyrics? Share in the comments—we’d love to hear! 🎶
Stephanie is the creative mind behind MagazinesNews.com, bringing readers insightful articles on Meaning, AI, Business, Health, Lifestyle, and Technology in a clear, engaging way.
