Introduction
“Dream On,” as performed by The Oak Ridge Boys, is a country rendition of a song with a rich history that predates their 1979 release. The song was written by the prolific songwriting duo Dennis Lambert and Brian Potter, who were responsible for numerous hits across various genres in the 1970s.
The song first gained prominence in 1974 when it was recorded by the blue-eyed soul duo The Righteous Brothers. Their version, featuring the powerful vocals of Bill Medley and Bobby Hatfield, reached No. 32 on the Billboard Hot 100 and showcased the song’s potential for crossover appeal. The Righteous Brothers’ rendition emphasized the song’s soulful and dramatic elements, with its soaring melodies and emotional delivery.
Five years later, The Oak Ridge Boys, known for their distinctive four-part harmonies and blend of country, gospel, and pop influences, decided to record their own version of “Dream On.” This marked a significant moment for the group as it was their first single to prominently feature their bass singer, Richard Sterban, on lead vocals. Sterban’s deep, resonant voice brought a new dimension to the song, giving it a more grounded and country feel.
The Oak Ridge Boys’ version of “Dream On” was released as the third single from their album “The Oak Ridge Boys Have Arrived.” It became a hit on the country charts, spending thirteen weeks within the top 40 of the Hot Country Songs chart. This success further solidified the song’s status as a timeless classic and demonstrated The Oak Ridge Boys’ ability to take a song from another genre and make it their own.
The song itself is a powerful ballad that speaks to the enduring human desire for hope and perseverance in the face of adversity. Its lyrics encourage listeners to hold onto their dreams and keep striving for a better future, a message that resonates with audiences across generations and musical tastes.