california dream
Bryan Greenberg Lyrics


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California Dream
of the sad screen
All she wants to be is the next Norman Gene
She came from Arkansas
walked the Boulevard
She wants it all but not everyone is a star
still holding on to that hollywood song
don't know the words but we all sing along
Fame is a drug, it won't give you love.
You won't give it up and it's never enough.
No it's never enough.
Spotlights, headlights, give me the real thing.
Spotlights, headlights, give me the real things.
California Dreams
from such a small town
all the prom queens and all the class clowns
Still holding on to that Hollywood song
We don't know the words but we all sing along
Fame is a drug, it won't give you love
You won't give it up and it's never enough
No it's never enough
Spotlights, headlights, give me the real thing
Spotlights, headlights, give me the real thing
Late nights, bright lights, give me the real thing
New heights, so bright, just give me the real thing




Give me the real thing
Just give me the real thing

Overall Meaning

Bryan Greenberg's song "California Dream" is a contemplation on the seductive appeal of Hollywood and the entertainment industry. The "sad screen" in the opening line references the film and television industry that draws people in with the promise of fame and fortune, but often leaves them feeling disillusioned and unfulfilled. The singer of the song is a young woman from Arkansas who has come to Los Angeles to be the next Norma Jean, the real name of Marilyn Monroe. She wants to be a star, but the reality is that not everyone can achieve that level of success.


The song touches on the idea that fame is a drug, an addiction that can never be fully satisfied. The lines "Fame is a drug, it won't give you love / You won't give it up and it's never enough" illustrate this point. The allure of the spotlight is powerful, but it can never replace true human connection or fulfillment.


Throughout the song, the chorus repeats the phrase "Spotlights, headlights, give me the real thing," suggesting that the singer is searching for something authentic and genuine in an industry that often prioritizes superficiality and image over substance.


Overall, "California Dream" is a thoughtful examination of the promises and pitfalls of the entertainment industry, told from the perspective of someone who recognizes the lure but ultimately seeks something more meaningful and fulfilling.


Line by Line Meaning

California Dream
The idea of chasing something elusive and glamorous in California


of the sad screen
Referencing the infamy of Hollywood and the negativity that can come from it


All she wants to be is the next Norman Gene
Describing the desire to follow in the footsteps of a famous person in the film industry


She came from Arkansas
Highlighting that the person in question originates from a small town


walked the Boulevard
A reference to Hollywood Blvd, known for its Walk of Fame and the location of many film studios


She wants it all but not everyone is a star
Acknowledging that not everyone who comes to Hollywood can be successful in achieving their dreams


still holding on to that hollywood song
Continuing the reference to the allure of Hollywood and its impact on people


don't know the words but we all sing along
Despite not knowing what to expect, the quest for success is something that many people chase


Fame is a drug, it won't give you love.
Playing on the idea that people believe success (fame) can fill a void and bring happiness, but in reality it cannot


You won't give it up and it's never enough.
Despite the disappointment that may come with unfulfilled dreams, people are still determined to chase success and fame


No it's never enough.
Further emphasizing that success and fame will never fully satisfy a person


Spotlights, headlights, give me the real thing.
Asking for authenticity in the pursuit of success and acknowledging the artificiality that can come with fame


California Dreams
Reiterating the idea of chasing success and stardom in California


from such a small town
Emphasizing the perceived unlikelihood of someone from a small town achieving success in Hollywood


all the prom queens and all the class clowns
Referencing the different types of people who may chase success in Hollywood


Late nights, bright lights, give me the real thing
Describing the sacrifices and experiences that may come with chasing success in Hollywood, and again asking for authenticity


New heights, so bright, just give me the real thing
Continuing the emphasis on the excitement of chasing success, while still seeking authenticity


Give me the real thing
A final plea for authenticity and genuine experiences in the pursuit of success




Contributed by Gianna V. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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