I Had the Craziest Dream

"I Had the Craziest Dream" is a popular song which was published in 1942. The music was written by Harry Warren, the lyrics by Mack Gordon.

Background

The song was introduced by Harry James and his orchestra, with vocals by Helen Forrest, in the film Springtime in the Rockies (1942).

Chart performance

James and Forrest recorded the song for Columbia Records (catalog No. 36659) on July 23, 1942 and their recording topped the Billboard charts during a 22-week stay. On the Harlem Hit Parade chart it peaked at number four.

Other recordings

• 1942 Tony Martin recorded the song with Victor Young and His Orchestra for Decca Records (catalog No.4394A) on July 19, 1942.
• 1943 Vera Lynn - a single release.
• 1953 The Skylarks - their recording was a #28 hit,
• 1956 Helen Forrest - included in the album Miss Helen Forrest – Voice of the Name Bands.
• 1956 Lita Roza - for her album Love Is the Answer.
• 1957 Doris Day included the song on her album Hooray for Hollywood (1958).
• 1957 Perry Como - for his album We Get Letters.
• 1958 Nat King Cole - his recording was eventually included in a compilation album called The Unforgettable Nat Cole Sings The Great Songs! in 1966.
• 1965 Al Hirt released a version on his album, They're Playing Our Song.
• 1965 Doris Day - Doris Day's Sentimental Journey.
• 1967 Astrud Gilberto reached #31 on Billboard's Easy listening survey with her remake.

In popular culture

The song was featured in the first Hit Kit, the U.S. Army's version of successful radio show Your Hit Parade.

References