Man, That Was A Dream (Monk's Dream)
Carmen McRae · Other Songs - Carmen McRae
(as sung by Carmen McRae)
I dreamed of a life that was pure and true.
I dreamed of a job only I could do.
One man beside me, we'd be a team,
Man, that was a dream.
I knew it was music I had to play,
I dreamed when I played, I would play MY way.
Too fast makin' children
Boo-Boo and Toot,
Dreams, that was a beaut.
All through life, I'd be true,
Fortune would come my way.
Strugglin' n gettin ' by,
Tryin' to never lie,
Meaning exactly what I say
I dreamed I had fame and a life sublime,
I dreamed I made prints of the sands of time.
Smack dab in the spotlight, bathed in it's beam,
Man, that was my dream.
(Solos)
All through life, I'd be true,
Fortune would come my way.
Strugglin' n gettin ' by,
Tryin' and never lie,
Meaning exactly what I say
I dreamed I had fame and a life sublime,
I dreamed I made prints of the sands of time.
Smack dab in the spotlight, makin' this wave,
Man, that was my dream. Man, that was my dream.
Man, that was my dream.
Man, That Was A Dream (Monk's Dream)
Carmen McRae delivers a hauntingly intimate performance of 'Man, That Was A Dream (Monk's Dream),' a track rooted in the jazz and blues traditions she helped define. Recorded with her signature vocal clarity and emotional depth, the song reflects her ability to convey complex narratives through melody alone. As a vocalist known for her work in the mid-20th century, McRae's rendition captures the essence of late-night reflection and the bittersweet nature of waking from a vivid dream. The recording stands as a testament to her mastery of the genre, showcasing her unique phrasing and the raw vulnerability that characterized her discography. This piece remains a significant example of her contribution to the American songbook, highlighting her skill in translating personal introspection into universal musical expression.