Introduction
“Tell Me I Was Dreaming” is a poignant ballad co-written and performed by American country artist Travis Tritt. Released on April 3, 1995, it served as the fourth and final single from his album “Ten Feet Tall and Bulletproof.” The song achieved significant success, peaking at number 2 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart and number 3 on Canada’s RPM Country Tracks chart. Tritt collaborated with Bruce Ray Brown in crafting this heartfelt track, while Gregg Brown handled its production under the Warner Bros. Nashville label.
Critics lauded “Tell Me I Was Dreaming” for its emotional depth and Tritt’s compelling delivery. Deborah Evans Price of Billboard magazine described it as a “big ballad” that combines “an impassioned vocal performance with Gregg Brown’s nifty production touches,” further noting its authentic country essence.
The accompanying music video, directed by Michael Merriman and filmed in Austin, Texas, significantly amplified the song’s impact. It is the second installment in a trilogy featuring Tritt as Mac Singleton, a disabled U.S. Army veteran. In this narrative, Mac’s pregnant wife, Annie, suffers a tragic accident, leading to her untimely death. Despite the heartbreak, their newborn daughter survives, whom Mac names after his late wife. The video’s emotional storyline resonated deeply with audiences, earning it a nomination for Video of the Year at the 1996 Academy of Country Music Awards.
“Tell Me I Was Dreaming” stands as a testament to Tritt’s storytelling prowess, blending soulful lyrics with a compelling visual narrative. Its exploration of profound loss and enduring hope continues to resonate with listeners, solidifying its place as a memorable piece in 1990s country music.