The Irish rock anthem that captured the feeling of first love

Countries & Cities · Published 12 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Originally released in October 1992, "Dreams" served as the debut single for the Irish rock band the Cranberries. Written by lead singer Dolores O'Riordan about her first love while living in Ireland, the track became a defining moment for the band's burgeoning international legacy.

The song's journey began with a 1990 demo released in Ireland under the band's original name, the Cranberry Saw Us. Following its 1992 Island Records debut, the track gained significant momentum, ultimately climbing into the US Billboard Hot 100's top 50 and the UK Singles Chart's top 30. While some critics, such as Paul Mathur of Melody Maker, felt the track did not reach the same heights as the band's single "Linger," others were captivated by its intoxicating qualities. Guitarist Noel Hogan later remarked that he only truly appreciated the track's quality after O'Riordan's death. Upon its initial release, Melody Maker's Ian Gittins named the track its Single of the Week.

The production of the song's visual identity was equally diverse, involving three distinct music videos directed by John Maybury, Peter Scammell, and Nico Soultanakis. These videos ranged from an aquatic-themed setting to a more surreal narrative involving grave robbers and a buried man. The song's vocal texture is notably defined by O'Riordan's singing and backing vocals provided by her ex-boyfriend, Mike Mahoney. The third music video, which was frequently broadcast in America and Ireland, features a nightclub setting. This version concludes with a man waking up after being freed from a pile of wood.

The song's influence extends far beyond its initial release, inspiring numerous covers and adaptations. In 2001, the electronic trio Dario G released "Dream to Me," which reached number one in Romania. In the Chinese media, Faye Wong's Cantonese cover "Dream Lover" became a significant hit. Even decades later, the song continues to be reinterpreted, from Passion Pit's 2010 cover to a 2020 charity recording by Irish Women in Harmony to support Safe Ireland. The track was also featured in a teaser for the 2022 film Aftersun. Additionally, Mexican singer Iran Castillo released a cover of the song in 2020.

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