About the Song
“Dream A Little Dream of Me” is a classic song from 1931, with music by Fabian Andre and Wilbur Schwandt, and lyrics by Gus Kahn. Originally recorded by Ozzie Nelson and His Orchestra in February 1931, the song quickly became a popular standard, and has since been recorded by over 400 artists.
In 1968, the Mamas & The Papas recorded their own version of the song for their album The Papas & The Mamas. This version, featuring lead vocals by Cass Elliot (also known as “Mama Cass”), became one of their most enduring hits. The group’s rendition of “Dream A Little Dream of Me” was released as a single in the summer of 1968, and became their last major hit. The single peaked at #12 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #2 on the Easy Listening chart, also reaching the top 10 in multiple music publications such as Cash Box and Record World.
Background and Recording
The Mamas & The Papas had been familiar with “Dream A Little Dream of Me” for years, largely due to Michelle Phillips, whose father had been friends with one of the song’s co-writers, Fabian Andre. Michelle’s family had spent time in Mexico City during her youth, where she became acquainted with the song. “Mama” Cass Elliot suggested that the group record it, even though she initially had reservations about the song’s “campiness.”
In interviews, Elliot described her approach to the recording: she tried to sing the song as if it were a fresh release, giving it a timeless feel. Despite her initial misgivings about the song’s style, the recording turned out to be one of their most iconic tracks.
Legacy and Impact
“Dream A Little Dream of Me” became a significant part of the Mamas & The Papas’ legacy, encapsulating their signature sound and blending the charm of 1960s folk-pop with the nostalgic feel of the 1940s. The song remains a classic of the era and continues to be associated with the group, representing their ability to bridge different musical eras and styles.
Though it was their final hit, the song’s success marked the end of an era for the group, following their turbulent and short-lived career in the music industry. Their version of the song remains one of the best-known renditions of this enduring standard.
Lyrics
And now to sing this lovely ballad
Here it is
Mama Cass
Stars shinin’ bright above you
Night breezes seem to whisper, “I love you”
Birds singin’ in the sycamore tree
Dream a little dream of me
Say, “Nighty-night” and kiss me
Just hold me tight and tell me you’ll miss me
While I’m alone and blue as can be
Dream a little dream of me
Stars fadin’ but I linger on, dear
Still cravin’ your kiss
I’m longin’ to linger ’til dawn, dear
Just saying this
Sweet dreams ’til sunbeams find you
Sweet dreams that leave all worries behind you
But in your dreams, whatever they be
Dream a little dream of me
Stars fadin’ but I linger on, dear
Still cravin’ your kiss
I’m longing to linger ’til dawn, dear
Just saying this
Sweet dreams ’til sunbeams find you
Sweet dreams that leave all worries far behind you
But in your dreams, whatever they be
Dream a little dream of me
