Sweet Dreams are made of ... Brass?
The Eurhythmics
The Soul Rebels
How many times a day do you stumble upon the beginnings of what could be the next hit pop song?
Personally, I don't think I have ever. There are two people who can say they have not only done this, but managed to write one of the most well-known songs of all time. Thus was the beginning of the group, the Eurhythmics, and the inception of the hit song "Sweet Dreams (are Made of This)."
Annie Lenox and Dave Stewart were originally members of a band called "The Tourists," which went the way of so many bands in the 80s -- a messy break up that ultimately left everyone penniless and destitute. Luckily for them, thanks to the help of their family and friends, they were able to scrape together just enough cash to buy two synthesizers. While testing out their new gear, Dave began to play a pattern on the synth. This pattern you ask -- the iconic opening of their hit song "Sweet Dreams." This song, according to Annie Lenox, is a lament about their current state in life, as well as the state of society as a whole. "Everybody is looking for something" in particular is a line that the duo calls to mind much of what their experience was in the music business.
Flashforward to 2025, and this song is still striking a chord (haha) today.
So much so, that it has become a popular cover song for many bands today. The Soul Rebels hopped aboard this train in the late 2010s, covering the song for their album, Unlock Your Mind. This cover keeps the same feel of the original song, but mixes in some elements from the New Orleans brass band tradition. While you're listening, check out this article on the original special event entertainment of New Orleans - Second Line.
Love the fusion of New Orleans brass and this pop classic. It reminds me of a contemporary Austrian brass band that I've seen twice that performs covers of popular songs. "Killing in the Name Of" by Rage Against the Machine was the most surprising cover, but effective!
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ReplyDeleteThanks Anna for your blog post. That is a funny story about the origin of Sweet Dreams. Thank you for sharing this piece by the Soul Rebels with me. Good work making the connection.
Seeing brass instruments in pop music gives me hope! Seeing them played well gives me even more hope, but also makes me want to go practice!! Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteI think it’s cool how songs like these mange to become so popular, brass groups end up covering them. This music group reminds me of the group Lucky Chops, that also does covers of songs from this era. Their cover of “Funky Town”” is one that I can remember listening to in high school, and it made me excited to want to pursue a music area.
ReplyDeleteI like how pop music and classical / contemporary music influence each other in creating a fusion of genres that combine their unique sounds and styles.
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