Tommy McLain was a soulful singer, multi‑instrumentalist, songwriter, and radio DJ who passed at the age of 85. His iconic 1966 hit “Sweet Dreams” reached No. 15 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and cemented his place in musical history.
| Full Name | Tommy McLain |
|---|---|
| Born | March 15, 1940 – Jonesville, Louisiana, USA |
| Died | July 13, 2024 – age 84 |
| Profession | Singer, Songwriter, Musician |
| Genre | Swamp Pop, Country, R&B |
| Famous Song | “Sweet Dreams” (1966) |
| Comeback Album | “I Ran Down Every Dream” (2022) |
| Awards | Inducted into Louisiana Music Hall of Fame (2007) |
| Legacy | Swamp-pop pioneer who bridged R&B, country, and Cajun sounds |
Early life
He born on March 15, 1940 in Jonesville, Louisiana, U.S. McLain moved as an infant to Pineville. Raised in a musical household, he started performing at family gatherings often standing on a box to sing for party guests. By age five, he’d begun playing bass; over the years he mastered piano, drums, fiddle, keyboards, and more.
Inspired by Little Richard, Fats Domino, and Larry Williams, a pivotal moment came in high school when he sneaked into a Little Richard concert after which he dyed his hair blonde and dove headlong into rhythm & blues and swamp pop.
Career
In the late 1950s, Tommy teamed up with country singer Clint West in The Vel‑Tones, later joining The Boogie Kings in the ’60s. In 1965 they released the duet “Try To Find Another Man”. Alongside performing, Tommy hosted a swamp‑pop radio show on KREH in Oakdale, Louisiana.
In 1966, backed by The Boogie Kings, McLain’s cover of “Sweet Dreams” became a massive hit—reaching No. 15 in the U.S. and No. 49 in the UK, selling millions, and even getting featured in the film The Drowning Pool. Its popularity was such that a jukebox operator famously noted patrons repeatedly played it making it a true regional sensation.
McLain wrote over 150 songs, including the Freddy Fender hit “If You Don’t Love Me Alone (Leave Me Alone)”. He also appeared with his band Mule Train in The Drowning Pool and toured extensively with Dick Clark’s Caravan of Stars, as well as other chart-topping acts.
In 2007, McLain was inducted into the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame. After decades away from studios, he released I Ran Down Every Dream in August 2022—his first album in over 40 years. Featuring collaborations with Elvis Costello, Nick Lowe, Jon Cleary, and Ivan Neville, the album earned multiple award nominations.
In 2025 he contributed to “A Tribute to the King of Zydeco”, an album honoring Clifton Chenier alongside The Rolling Stones and other Louisiana legends.
Tommy McLain’s most popular song is “Sweet Dreams” (1966), a swamp-pop hit that topped charts. Other notable tracks include “Before I Grow Too Old”, “I Need You So”, and “Try to Find Another Man”. He made a late comeback with “I Ran Down Every Dream” (2022) and “Moving to Heaven” (2024).
Personal Life
McLain was described by family as a beloved father, grandfather, and friend, and remained active touring with his Mule Train Band until the end. He overcame serious life challenges house fire, hurricanes, a heart attack yet persevered to make his comeback and continue creating music well into his eighties.
Death
He passed away on July 24, 2025 at the age of 85. His Family announced, “It is with immense sadness and heavy hearts we announce the passing of our father Tommy McLain.”
“He departed peacefully on the morning of 7/24/25 at the age of 85.”
“He was a beloved father, grandfather, and friend.”
“He will be deeply missed but, the music he made will live on in the hearts and minds of his fans, friends, and family. It will be his legacy.”
