The Raw Inspiration For “These Dreams” And How Nancy Brought It To Life While Sick With The Flu

April 1, 2025

In the winter of 1985, Nancy Wilson, the talented vocalist of the rock band Heart, found herself battling a nasty bout of the flu. While most people would curl up in bed, feeling miserable and sorry for themselves, Nancy’s spirit was too strong to be contained. With her voice hoarse and her body heavy with fever, she had a vision brewing inside her mind—a song that would come to be known as “These Dreams.” It was as if the raw inspiration for the song was calling to her, whispering through the haze of her sickness, urging her to give it life.

As she lay wrapped in blankets, Nancy would doodle lyrics and melodies on scraps of paper, fighting through the discomfort and fatigue that encompassed her. Though the world outside was cold and dreary, inside her heart burned a fire of creativity. The haunting melodies and deep emotional lyrics flowed out of her as if she were connected to something greater than herself. Each note became a small victory over the sickness that tried to keep her down. She believed that music could heal, not only for herself but for everyone who would hear her song.

With the help of her bandmates and their producer, Nancy transformed her fragile ideas into a powerful anthem about dreams and longing. The song was woven with the threads of hope, reflecting the universal desire to chase dreams, even when faced with adversity. Despite being bedridden, Nancy’s sheer determination shone through as she stepped into the studio, fighting against her illness to record the vocals. The raspy quality of her voice, a result of her flu, added an emotional depth that resonated with listeners, imbuing the song with authenticity and raw feeling.

When “These Dreams” was finally released in 1986, it soared to the top of the charts, becoming one of Heart’s most iconic hits. It captivated audiences with its ethereal sound and heartfelt lyrics, reminding people that dreams are worth pursuing, no matter the obstacles. The song’s success transformed Nancy’s career, solidifying her as a force in the music industry and showing the world that strength and creativity can emerge even in the toughest times.

Looking back, Nancy often reflects on that winter when she was sick and yet found a piece of herself through music. It was a turning point that taught her that resilience can fuel creativity and that even in our weakest moments, we have the power to create something beautiful. “These Dreams” became much more than just a song; it was a testament to her spirit, a reminder to herself and to others that passion can shine through pain, and dreams can take flight even in the darkest days. Each time she sang it, she felt that same spirit wash over her, inspiring herself and countless fans along the way.