This is probably one of Elvis’ most powerful moments, especially in context. You can feel the emotion in his voice
“If I Can Dream” is a powerful and inspiring song by the legendary rock and roll artist Elvis Presley. The song was written by Walter Earl Brown and recorded by Elvis in 1968 as the closing number for his television special titled “Elvis,” also known as the ’68 Comeback Special.
The song’s lyrics were inspired by the assassinations of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. and presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy, which had occurred earlier that year. The lyrics express a desire for unity and hope for a better future, and serve as a call to action for people to come together and work towards a better world.
The song begins with a soft, almost gospel-like introduction, with Elvis singing the lines “There must be lights burning brighter somewhere / Got to be birds flying higher in a sky more blue.” This builds up to a powerful chorus, where Elvis belts out the lyrics “If I can dream of a better land / Where all my brothers walk hand in hand / Tell me why can’t my dream come true?”
Throughout the song, Elvis’s vocal performance is nothing short of outstanding. His voice conveys a deep sense of passion and emotion, and his delivery is both powerful and moving. The song’s arrangement is also noteworthy, featuring a lush orchestral backing that complements Elvis’s vocals perfectly.
In addition to its powerful message and impressive musicality, “If I Can Dream” has also become an important part of Elvis’s legacy. The song was one of his last big hits before his death in 1977, and it has remained a fan favorite ever since. It has also been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Celine Dion, Tom Jones, and Michael Bublé.
Overall, “If I Can Dream” is a timeless classic that continues to inspire and uplift listeners more than five decades after its release. Its message of hope and unity is as relevant today as it was in 1968, and its stirring performance by Elvis Presley ensures that it will be remembered as one of the greatest songs of his career.
