They sang THIS hit in 1958, When I hear it 60 years later, Oh, the memories

“Mr. Sandman, bring me a dream. Make him the cutest that I’ve ever seen.” It’s 1958, Eisenhower is president, and rock ‘n’ roll is on the rise. But don’t tell that to The Chordettes. This all-female vocal group from Sheboygan—Janet, Alice, Lynn, and Jinny—captivated audiences with their enchanting a cappella performances of hits like “Mr. Sandman” and “Lollipop.”

Often likened to a barbershop quartet, The Chordettes dazzled in this live TV performance, showcasing their impeccable harmonies. Remember those iconic “bum-bum-bums” in “Mr. Sandman”? In this rendition, each “bum” is delivered in perfect succession by a different member, without missing a beat. It’s a masterclass in precision and timing.

Dressed in elegant gowns, the group embodies a sense of refined charm, even as the lyrics cheekily request Mr. Sandman to deliver them a handsome man to dream about. Their polished style may evoke an air of 1950s propriety, but the playfulness of the song’s lyrics adds a surprising layer of fun.

In a whimsical twist for this particular performance, Mr. Sandman himself makes an appearance on-screen—a young and dashing figure answering the ladies’ request. The playful moment adds humor to the performance, making it all the more memorable.

Fun fact: Janet, one of The Chordettes, has a notable connection to music history. Her daughter married Phil Everly of The Everly Brothers, truly making it a match made in musical heaven. The Chordettes also made history when they performed on the first nationally broadcast episode of American Bandstand, cementing their status as icons in American music.

Though The Chordettes’ version of “Mr. Sandman” became legendary, it wasn’t the first recording. Vaughn Monroe & His Orchestra originally performed the song in 1954, but their version couldn’t quite match the magic of The Chordettes’ later rendition, recorded that same year.

Viewers today still feel the nostalgia. One commenter wrote, “No cuss words, no over-the-top beats, no auto-tune—just pure, simple music.” Another shared, “My grandma used to sing this to me when I was little. Hearing it now brings back stories of her wild teen years in the ‘50s. She’s my best friend, and I’m so glad I inherited her love for this era.”

The Chordettes’ timeless harmonies continue to transport listeners to a bygone era, where the music was pure, heartfelt, and just a little cheeky.