Speaking of Dreams

Released in 1989, Speaking of Dreams serves as a significant marker in Joan Baez's later career, specifically her tenure with Gold Castle Records. Moving away from the purely acoustic arrangements that defined her early work, this album embraces the production values of the late 80s, featuring a more 'produced' sound with synthesizers and prominent guest features. The record is notable for its topicality, specifically the opening track 'China,' which was written in response to the Tiananmen Square protests occurring just months before the album's release. It also features a notable collaboration with the Gipsy Kings on 'A Mi Manera' (a Spanish version of 'My Way'), showcasing Baez's lifelong affinity for Latin music and her ability to adapt to contemporary world-pop styles. Critics often view this as one of her more accessible late-period efforts, balancing her role as a political activist with her status as a seasoned interpreter of song.