“Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” is a song by the British new wave duo Eurythmics, released in January 1983 with “I Could Give You a Mirror” on the B-side as the fourth and final single from their album of the same name. The song became the duo’s breakthrough hit and is one of the most iconic tracks of the 1980s.
“Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” is an electronic and synth-pop track that features a minimalist beat, hypnotic synthesizer riffs, and Annie Lennox’s deep, commanding vocals. The song is driven by a repetitive synth loop and a steady drum machine, creating a cold, mechanical yet mesmerizing sound that was groundbreaking at the time. The production reflects the 1980s trend of electronic music but with a dark and haunting edge. The lyrics explore themes of ambition, power, and the pursuit of dreams. The famous opening line, “Sweet dreams are made of this, who am I to disagree?” suggests a philosophical reflection on the nature of desires and human aspirations.
“Sweet Dreams” was a major commercial success. It reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States, making it the Eurythmics’ first major hit in the U.S. The single also reached the top of the Canada Top Singles chart, and reached the top 5 in manyo ther countries, including the UK, where it peaked at No. 2.
“Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” remains one of the most influential and enduring songs of the 1980s. It is widely considered a classic of the synth-pop genre and is one of Eurythmics’ signature tracks. The song’s blend of dark electronic soundscapes with pop sensibility helped shape the direction of 1980s music and continues to be celebrated for its timeless appeal.