Eurythmics – Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This)

Eurythmics’ “Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This)” is one of the most instantly recognisable recordings of the 1980s, built around a stark electronic pulse, a hypnotic synthesizer riff and Annie Lennox’s commanding vocal. Written by Lennox and Dave A. Stewart and released in 1983, it became the defining song of the duo’s breakthrough period.

The song began almost accidentally during a difficult period for the pair. Eurythmics had emerged from the breakup of The Tourists, while Lennox and Stewart had also ended their personal relationship. Stewart experimented with a Wasp synthesizer and drum machine, creating the basic rhythmic foundation. Lennox then improvised the opening lyric and melody, turning Stewart’s instrumental idea into a song.

Despite its bright, memorable title, the song is far from cheerful. Lennox has described it as expressing feelings of vulnerability, frustration and disillusionment, with the lyrics reflecting the endless human search for fulfilment. Its unusual structure also avoids a conventional chorus, allowing the verses themselves to provide the song’s central hook.

The striking video, directed by Chris Ashbrook, became equally important to the song’s identity. Lennox’s cropped orange hair and tailored suit created an instantly memorable image, while the surreal mixture of performance, technology, animals and corporate imagery reinforced the song’s dreamlike quality.

“Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This)” remains a landmark of synth-pop, balancing cold electronic textures with genuine human emotion.

The song peaked at No. 02 in the UK charts on 19th March 1983.