Dream
Tommy Scott Lyrics


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Won't you play some simple melody
Like my mother sang to me
One with a good old-fashioned harmony
Play some simple melody

Musical demon, set your honey a-dreamin',
Won't you play me some rag
Just change that classical nag to some sweet beautiful drag
If you will play from a copy of a tune
That is choppy you'll get all my applause
And that is simply because I wanna listen to rag

Play for me
That good old-fashioned harmony
Oh, won't you play for me
A simple melody

Play from a copy of a tune that is choppy
You'll get all of my applause because





I wanna rag it
Ragtime melody

Overall Meaning

In Tommy Scott's song "Dream," the lyrics articulate a longing for simplicity and nostalgia through music. The opening lines set the tone, expressing a desire for a "simple melody" reminiscent of childhood, much like the songs sung by the singer’s mother. This evokes a warm sense of nostalgia, symbolizing comfort and a connection to family. The reference to a "good old-fashioned harmony" further emphasizes a yearning for easier times, where music served as a source of joy and familiarity. The plea for a simple melody suggests a need to escape from the complexities of modern life and to reconnect with the emotional purity that simple tunes can provide.


As the song progresses, the mention of a "musical demon" reflects a playful understanding of music's ability to evoke imagination and dreams. The use of the word "demon" carries a somewhat mischievous tone, implying that music, while often uplifting, can also stir chaotic yet beautiful emotions. The singer's request for the musician to "play me some rag" signifies a preference for lively and upbeat music, diverging from classical styles that may feel too formal or structured. Ragtime, with its syncopated rhythms and danceable beats, embodies a form of freedom and joy, a stark contrast to the "classical nag" that the singer dismisses. This juxtaposition highlights the singer's desire for refreshment and vitality in their musical experience.


The desire for "rag" symbolizes more than just a specific style; it serves as a metaphor for desire and liberation. The reference to seamless transitions in music—the ability to shift from classical to a fresh, vibrant tune—mirrors the singer's desire for change and excitement in life. The repeated requests for "play from a copy of a tune that is choppy" may reflect a yearning for authenticity over perfection, celebrating music that feels real and lived-in rather than polished and rehearsed. This appreciation for the raw and unrefined aspects of music creates a connection with the audience, inviting them to celebrate the imperfections that make life and art interesting.


Ultimately, the song encapsulates a broader desire for connection, comfort, and joy through the medium of music. The refrain calls for "a simple melody" that resonates with the listener's innermost feelings, underscoring the idea that music can be a transcendent and transformative experience. The potent imagery of childhood memories tied to melody evokes a collective yearning for simpler times when music served as a bridge to our emotions and communal experiences. This heartfelt appeal for the "ragtime melody" serves as an anthem of happiness, emphasizing the fundamental human longing for connection, simplicity, and authenticity through the universal language of music.


Line by Line Meaning

Won't you play some simple melody
Could you please perform a straightforward and easy-to-follow piece of music?


Like my mother sang to me
A tune reminiscent of the comforting songs my mother used to sing during my childhood.


One with a good old-fashioned harmony
A composition featuring traditional and pleasing harmonies that evoke nostalgia.


Play some simple melody
Once again, I urge you to share a readily enjoyable piece that resonates with ease.


Musical demon, set your honey a-dreamin',
Oh, playful spirit of music, create enchanting sounds that transport me into a dreamlike state.


Won't you play me some rag
Would you indulge me by performing some lively ragtime music?


Just change that classical nag to some sweet beautiful drag
Transform the dull and tiresome classical piece into something delightful and melodious.


If you will play from a copy of a tune
If you could interpret and perform a rendition of an existing melody,


That is choppy you'll get all my applause
Even if it’s a fragmented or uneven version, I'll cheer and appreciate your efforts.


And that is simply because I wanna listen to rag
The reason for my appreciation is simply that I'm eager to hear that upbeat ragtime music.


Play for me
Please, perform for me.


That good old-fashioned harmony
Share with me those nostalgic harmonies that comfort and resonate in happiness.


Oh, won't you play for me
I ask you once more to grace me with your music.


A simple melody
A lovely, uncomplicated tune that brings joy and ease.


Play from a copy of a tune that is choppy
Perform an interpretation of a piece that may not be perfectly polished,


You'll get all of my applause because
And I will wholeheartedly appreciate your performance because


I wanna rag it
I wish to fully embrace the lively, syncopated rhythms of ragtime music.


Ragtime melody
A spirited and cheerful tune characterized by its distinct ragtime style.




Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, O/B/O DistroKid, Sentric Music, Peermusic Publishing, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Johnny Mercer

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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