Progressive Pop
Gary Wright accompanied George Harrison on a trip to India in 1972. Before they left, Harrison gave Wright Autobiography of a Yogi by Paramahansa Yogananda to read. Wright loved the book — and the travels in India. There was also a poem by Yogananada titled “God! God! God!,” where there was the idea of the mind weaving dreams. These texts and experiences influence the writing of Wright’s song “Dream Weaver.”
The song is done with Wright on vocals and keyboards and synthesizer, with Jim Keltner on drums. “Dream Weaver” was released on Wright’s 1975 album The Dream Weaver as well as a single, backed with “Let It Out.” The song rose to #2 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, #1 on U.S. Cash Box Top 100, and #1 in Canada. It was #24 in Australia and #31 in New Zealand. It earned an RIAA Gold record certification.
The song has appeared in numerous films, TV shows, and TV commercials. One of the best known was for the 1992 film Wayne’s World. Wright re-recorded a longer version for that soundtrack. Gary Wright continues to tour and perform.