Steven Tyler worked on the classic rock ballad Dream On for six years before his Aerosmith band members helped complete it. Tyler’s musical dreams trace back to when he was just three years old lying under a piano listening to his father play. His dreams began to come true in 1973 when Dream On became Aerosmith’s first big hit.
Dream On was the only song on Aerosmith’s debut album that Tyler uses his “real” voice. Lead singer Tyler intentionally sung a bit lower on the other tracks because he was insecure about how his voice sounded on tape. Using his “real” voice seems to have worked out for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member who is still going strong at age 69.
"Half my life
Is books written pages
Live and learn from fools and
From sages
You know it's true, oh
All these things you do come back to you
Sing with me, sing for the years
Sing for the laughter, sing for the tears"
~ Steven Tyler, Aerosmith, Dream On
When I hear Steven Tyler screeching “Dream On, Dream until your Dreams Come True,” I am instantly transported to my childhood bedroom, filled with music and optimism. Dreams change as we move through stages in life. Performing with the Radio City Rockettes slid off my list, but I loved living in New York City.
Maintaining the enthusiasm to reevaluate and set new life goals is crucial, even when the lines on our face are getting clearer. Prioritizing time to “Dream On” ensures that we continue to pursue new challenges in life.
Midlife brings a fresh perspective to goal setting -- there is plenty of empirical data on interests and talents. If your vision is clear you can leverage your strengths to create new goals. If your path is less defined there are resources, like hiring a coach, to help you turn new dreams into reality.