It’s late late night for your reviewer, everyone is sleeping, especially the cat (no-one is as tired as a cat who has done nothing all day!) There is a certain point long after darkness falls when you slip down into the sofa and a last song before sleep is required to wash the day away. I wonder if this one will work a bit of magic?
First, let me share the press release:
“Canadian singer-songwriter Rose Ora has released her latest single, “He’s Just a Dream,” a powerful, emotionally charged ballad for anyone navigating the pain of an unfulfilling relationship. Inspired by a vivid dream that prompted Rose to question her own relationship, the song captures the conflicting emotions of distress, joy, and intense love. The alternative-pop single has acoustic undertones and features vulnerable lyrics that reflect Rose’s signature storytelling style. She connects with listeners who may be wrestling with similar doubts or emotional crossroads through lines such as:
I hear this little voice inside my head // whispering that you’re not my soulmate anymore // I dream about this guy, holding him so tight // Loving him and kissing him, no he’s just a dream.
With “He’s Just a Dream,” Rose hopes to inspire others to trust their instincts, pursue their dreams, and believe in the possibility of true love, even when it requires difficult change. The single highlights her gift for transforming personal experiences into compelling, melodic narratives.
The release arrives as Rose’s online presence continues to grow rapidly, with an audience of nearly 40K on TikTok and thousands more across additional platforms. Her community has formed organically around her authenticity and the emotional transparency in her music.”
My Review:
This was released January 18, so is out on all platforms now. The song is a kind of antithesis to the Valentines Day we have just had as Rose is showing him the door! We dream about those we love when they are no longer there. I sometimes like dreams as they belong to us and are often preferable to reality! Musically, the song is a power ballad pulling from winter and acoustic touches of storytelling. You can sway gently to this one, maybe in the arms of someone you love…
Rose Ora delivers a dreamy, late-night power ballad with He’s Just a Dream — the sound of realising love isn’t quite enough anymore. Wrapped in acoustic warmth and wintery melancholy, it’s heartbreak with clarity rather than drama. Perfect for swaying gently in the dark, preferably while choosing peace over pretending.
Bonus points for reminding us that sometimes dreams are kinder than reality. 🌙
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Stream music by Rose Ora here
Song credits:
Songwriter & vocals: Rose Ora
Co-songwriter: Chloe Anika Colton
Production: Tyler Spicer
Mastering: Sam Chassy (Mind’s Eye Mastering)
By Anna-Louise Burgess