John Lennon – #9 Dream: A Glimpse into the Surreal and the Serene
John Lennon, the iconic co-founder of The Beatles, embarked on a prolific solo career after the band’s dissolution. Among his introspective and often politically charged songs, “#9 Dream” stands out as a unique sonic journey, offering a glimpse into the surreal and the serene. Released in 1974 on his album Walls and Bridges, the song quickly garnered a cult following for its dreamlike atmosphere and introspective lyrics.
#9 Dream marked a period of creative re-energization for Lennon. Fresh from a separation from his wife Yoko Ono, he reconnected with several old friends, including Paul McCartney. This newfound sense of connection and reflection is evident in the song’s lyrical themes.
The song opens with a sense of mystery, with Lennon singing, “Was it in a dream, was it just a dream?” This sets the stage for a narrative that blurs the lines between reality and the subconscious. Lennon paints a vivid picture of a dreamlike world, filled with “whispered trees” and “spirits dancing so strange.” The lyrics, penned by Lennon himself, are open to interpretation, allowing listeners to project their own experiences and emotions onto the song’s narrative.
Musically, #9 Dream departs from Lennon’s usual rock and roll sound. The song features a laid-back, almost jazzy groove, with a prominent acoustic guitar and Eddie Mottau’s subtle piano work providing a melancholic backdrop. Lennon’s vocals are subdued and introspective, perfectly capturing the dreamlike quality of the lyrics. The song builds to a brief crescendo with soaring electric guitar work by Jesse Ed Davis, before returning to its tranquil state, leaving a sense of peaceful contemplation in its wake.
Chorus:
Ah! böwakawa poussé, poussé
Ah! böwakawa poussé, poussé
Ah! böwakawa poussé, poussé
#9 Dream has become a favorite among Lennon’s solo works**. Despite not achieving the same commercial success as some of his other singles, the song has garnered critical acclaim for its originality and introspective nature. It is often cited as a prime example of Lennon’s ability to explore the complexities of the human experience through his music.
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Here are some additional details about the song:
- The song was written and sung by John Lennon.
- It was released in 1974 on the album Walls and Bridges.
- The song peaked at number nine on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and number 23 on the UK Singles Chart.
- #9 Dream has been covered by numerous artists, including The Smashing Pumpkins and José Feliciano.
Whether you interpret it as a commentary on the subconscious mind, a reflection on personal relationships, or simply a beautiful soundscape, #9 Dream remains a captivating and timeless piece of music from John Lennon’s remarkable solo career.