“Bring me a dream, Mr. Sandman. Make him the most adorable thing I’ve ever seen.”
It’s 1958. Dwight D. Eisenhower is in the White House, rock & roll is beginning to dominate the airwaves, and the Chordettes—Janet, Alice, Lynn, and Jinny—are captivating audiences with their signature harmonies. Their a cappella hits, Mr. Sandman and Lollipop, made the quartet a household name across the United States.
In this charming live television performance, the Chordettes showcase the precision and skill that set them apart. Those playful “bum-bum-bums” in the song? Each member sings a single note in perfect, rapid succession, creating a rhythm that seems almost impossible to execute. Their timing is flawless, leaving listeners enchanted.
Elegance and style are key to their appeal. Dressed in long, modest gowns and moving with grace, the Chordettes capture the sweet sophistication of the era—even as the lyrics cheekily request Mr. Sandman to “bring me a handsome man.” This blend of innocence and flirtation helped define their unique charm.
Adding to the fun, the performance features a whimsical appearance by “Mr. Sandman” himself—young, handsome, and smiling—responding to the quartet’s musical call. The result is a perfect mix of talent, humor, and nostalgia, reminding audiences why this 1958 classic still resonates today.