Dreamer

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Dreamer" by Supertramp from their 1974 album Crime of the Century, and the Zoo Freaks are loving it! This track, a breakout hit for the band, has some fascinating stories behind it. Roger Hodgson, Supertramp’s co-frontman, wrote "Dreamer" when he was just 19, banging out the song on a Wurlitzer piano at his mother’s house. He recorded a rough demo using vocals, the Wurlitzer, and cardboard boxes for percussion, capturing a raw, youthful energy. Hodgson once recalled being thrilled to get his hands on that Wurlitzer, as it sparked the song’s creation. However, when Supertramp hit the studio, they struggled to recreate the demo’s magic, a challenge Hodgson discussed on In the Studio with Redbeard. The song’s quirky, pulsating keyboards and catchy melody earned praise, with Record World calling it “contagious” and Cash Box noting its “commercial potential.” It peaked at number 13 on the UK Singles Chart in 1975 and later hit number one in Canada with a live version from their 1980 album Paris.

Another tidbit comes from Hodgson’s reflections on the song’s legacy. He’s said "Dreamer" was serendipitous as his first hit, tying into his youthful aspirations as a songwriter inspired by The Beatles’ ability to impact the world. Posted on X, Hodgson celebrated the song’s role as Supertramp’s first international hit, noting its inclusion in his live performances alongside other Crime of the Century fan favorites like “School” and “Hide in Your Shell.” Fans on Facebook have shared their love for the song, with one calling it a “masterpiece” and another saying it still feels “freaking fresh” decades later. The song’s themes of idealism and dreaming big resonated widely, though some critics, like those at Ultimate Classic Rock, saw it as a critique of wasting life on unacted dreams, adding a layer of bittersweet depth.

Supertramp’s journey began in 1969 in London, sparked by a Dutch millionaire named Stanley “Sam” August Miesegaes. He was disappointed with a band called The Joint and offered financial backing to Swindon-born keyboardist Rick Davies, who he believed had untapped potential. Davies, previously a bandmate of Gilbert O’Sullivan, formed Supertramp with Roger Hodgson on bass and vocals, Richard Palmer on guitars, and Keith Baker on percussion. Their early years were rough—the first two albums flopped commercially, and the band nearly fell apart. By 1974, after a lineup overhaul that brought in drummer Bob Siebenberg, bassist Dougie Thomson, and saxophonist John Helliwell, they hit their stride with Crime of the Century. This album marked their shift from experimental prog-rock to a more pop-friendly sound, blending Davies’ gritty edge with Hodgson’s melodic sweetness. The duo’s songwriting, credited collaboratively like Lennon/McCartney, fueled their rise, with Hodgson’s philosophical lyrics and Davies’ bluesy grit defining their unique style.

Supertramp’s official online presence keeps fans connected. Their official website offers tour updates, discography details, and more. On Facebook, they share throwbacks and fan memories, while Instagram features vintage photos and album anniversaries. Their X account engages with fans through posts about milestones like Crime of the Century’s 50th anniversary. Roger Hodgson, who left the band in 1983, maintains his own website, Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts, where he shares solo tour dates and reflections on his Supertramp days. Fan communities thrive online, too. The Supertramp Fans Facebook group is a hub for devotees to discuss albums and share concert experiences, while Prog Archives offers detailed discographies and reviews for prog-rock enthusiasts. These platforms keep the spirit of Supertramp’s music alive for fans old and new.