Crowded House: "Don't Dream, It's Over" (1986)

"Don't Dream It's Over" is a pop/rock song written by New Zealander Neil Finn and performed by Crowded House for their debut album Crowded House. Various artists have released covers of the song; in 2001, Sixpence None the Richer recorded and released a cover of the song. The song is a staple of 1980s pop compilations.

"Don't Dream It's Over" reached #2 on the Billboard Hot 100. The follow-up to this song was "Something So Strong," Crowded House's only other American Top 40 hit.

In May 2001, Australasian Performing Rights Association (APRA) celebrated its 75th anniversary by naming the Best Australian Songs of all time, as decided by a 100 person industry panel. "Don't Dream It's Over" was ranked seventh. While this was considered controversial in New Zealand, it has been noted that the band drew members from New Zealand, Australia and the United States and was formed in Melbourne.

"Don't Dream It's Over" was the very last song performed at Crowded House's "Farewell to the World" concert in 1996.


- Lyrics:

There is freedom within, there is freedom without
Try to catch the deluge in a paper cup
There's a battle ahead, many battles are lost
But you'll never see the end of the road
While you're traveling with me

CHORUS:
Hey now, hey now, don't dream it's over
Hey now, hey now, when the world comes in
They come, they come to build a wall between us
We know they won't win

Now I'm towing my car, there's a hole in the roof
My possessions are causing me suspicion but there's no proof
In the paper today tales of war and of waste
But you turn right over to the T.V. page

CHORUS

Now I'm walking again to the beat of a drum
And I'm counting the steps to the door of your heart
Only the shadows ahead barely clearing the roof
Get to know the feeling of liberation and relief