“Dreams” by NEEDTOBREATHE featuring Judah & The Lion is a powerful song that delves into themes of struggle, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams. Let’s break down the lyrics for a detailed interpretation.

The song begins with the opening lines emphasizing the ability to make dreams come true, setting the tone for a hopeful and aspirational narrative. The intro, sung by Bear Rinehart and Judah Akers, immediately captures the essence of believing in the possibility of realizing one’s dreams.

In the first verse, the lyrics portray a sense of inner turmoil and the challenges faced by the protagonist. Descriptions like being a “wounded shell” and a “restless hurry” highlight a sense of brokenness and urgency. Despite making mistakes and feeling like a “loaded gun,” there is a persistent desire to overcome obstacles and rebuild from the rubble of past failures.

The pre-chorus introduces a reflective moment where the singer acknowledges the difficulty of finding hope amid struggles and setbacks. The lyrics suggest that despite facing numerous failures, there is a sense of contemplation and questioning that emerges from these experiences.

The chorus serves as a jubilant declaration of perseverance and celebration in the face of adversity. The imagery of throwing bones in the rhythm and sinking teeth in a good time symbolizes a commitment to embracing life’s moments fully, even amid uncertainties. The repetition of “You make dreams come true” reinforces the belief in the transformative power of chasing one’s dreams.

The second verse continues the narrative with a focus on personal growth and resilience. The protagonist embraces their identity as a “small town voice” with a “winding story,” illustrating the journey of self-discovery and pursuing a passion despite setbacks. The mention of falling hard but finding salvation in the experience reflects a narrative of finding strength through vulnerability and learning from life’s challenges.

The bridge introduces a shift in perspective, highlighting the beauty in imperfection and the potential for growth through mistakes. The singer expresses gratitude for the broken things in life, recognizing them as opportunities for self-improvement and personal evolution. The lyrics suggest that even in the face of adversity, one can find beauty and purpose in the journey.

The outro reinforces the idea of resilience and determination in the pursuit of dreams. The repeated affirmation of bracing oneself every minute and holding on tight for a good ride emphasizes the importance of perseverance and embracing the unknown. The acknowledgment of being “fools like us” suggests a shared experience of vulnerability and courage in following one’s dreams.

In conclusion, “Dreams” is a poignant and introspective song that celebrates the human spirit’s ability to overcome challenges and pursue aspirations. The lyrics invite listeners to embrace vulnerability, learn from failures, and believe in the transformative power of chasing one’s dreams. The collaboration between NEEDTOBREATHE and Judah & The Lion delivers a message of hope, resilience, and the pursuit of personal growth, making it an inspiring anthem for anyone navigating life’s obstacles.