About The Song
" #9 Dream" by John Lennon, featured on his 1974 album "Walls and Bridges," is a surreal and enigmatic musical journey that showcases Lennon's artistic experimentation and mastery. The song is notable for its dreamlike quality, both in terms of its lyrics and musical arrangement. It stands as a testament to Lennon's ability to blend introspection, mysticism, and innovation into a cohesive and captivating piece of music.
The title, "#9 Dream," is a reference to a recurring dream Lennon had. The dream reportedly involved a mysterious voice repeating the phrase "Ah, böwakawa poussé, poussé," which he incorporated into the song's lyrics. This phrase adds an element of otherworldliness to the composition, inviting listeners to interpret its meaning in the context of their own dreams and experiences.
Musically, "#9 Dream" features a lush and ethereal soundscape. The dreamlike quality is heightened by the use of unconventional instruments, including a distinctive saxophone solo by Bobby Keys. The song's production incorporates layers of sound, creating a sonic tapestry that mirrors the complexity of dreams. The use of a repetitive, hypnotic guitar riff further enhances the dreamy atmosphere, contributing to the overall sense of enchantment.
Lennon's vocals in "#9 Dream" are delivered with a soothing and melodic quality, adding to the song's immersive nature. His lyrics, filled with vivid imagery and dreamlike scenes, evoke a sense of introspection and mystery. The enigmatic nature of the song allows listeners to interpret its meaning in various ways, making it a rich and open-ended experience.
The song's lasting appeal lies in its ability to transport listeners into a realm of imagination and contemplation. Lennon's willingness to embrace experimentation and push the boundaries of conventional songwriting is evident in "#9 Dream," making it a standout track in his post-Beatles solo career. As a musical exploration of the subconscious and a celebration of the creative spirit, "#9 Dream" continues to captivate audiences, inviting them to embark on their own introspective journeys with each listen.
Video
Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
So long ago
Was it in a dream?
Was it just a dream?
I know, yes I know
It seemed so very real
Seemed so real to me
Took a walk down the street
Through the heat whispered trees
I thought I could hear
Hear
Hear
Hear
Somebody call out my name (John)
As it started to rain
Two spirits dancing so strange
Ah! Bowakawa, pousse pousse
Ah! Bowakawa, pousse pousse
Ah! Bowakawa, pousse pousse
Dream, dream away
Magic in the air
Was magic in the air?
I believe, yes I believe
More I cannot say
What more can I say?
On a river of sound
Through the mirror go round, round
I thought I could feel
Feel
Feel
Feel
Music touching my soul
Something warm, sudden cold
The spirit dance was unfolding
Ah! Bowakawa, pousse pousse
Ah! Bowakawa, pousse pousse
Ah! Bowakawa, pousse pousse
Ah! Bowakawa, pousse pousse
Ah! Bowakawa, pousse pousse
Ah! Bowakawa, pousse pousse
Ah! Bowakawa, pousse pousse
Ah! Bowakawa, pousse pousse
Ah! Bowakawa, pousse pousse
Ah! Bowakawa, pousse pousse
Ah! Bowakawa, pousse pousse
Ah! Bowakawa, pousse pousse