“Bring me a dream, Mr. Sandman. Make him the most adorable thing I’ve ever seen.” It’s 1958. Eisenhower is president, rock & roll is taking shape, and yet the Chordettes are stealing the spotlight with their sweet, unmistakable harmonies. Their a cappella hits “Mr. Sandman” and “Lollipop” made the quartet—Janet, Alice, Lynn, and Jinny—radio sensations across America.
In this charming live TV performance, the Chordettes display the precision that made them unforgettable. Remember all those playful “bum-bum-bums” in the song? What many don’t realize is that each woman sings a single “bum” in perfect, rapid-fire sequence, creating a seamless rhythm that sounds almost impossible to execute. Their timing is flawless.
The group’s elegance also adds to the magic. Dressed in long, modest gowns with their trademark grace, they evoke an era of sweetness and style—even as the lyrics teasingly ask Mr. Sandman to “bring me a handsome man.” That mix of innocence and flirtation was part of their charm.
This particular performance even includes a fun twist: Mr. Sandman himself appears on screen, answering their musical “call.” Young, handsome, and smiling, he brings humor and delight to the moment. As the Chordettes’ voices float through the air, the scene becomes a perfect blend of nostalgia, talent, and lighthearted fun—a reminder of why this 1958 classic still makes us smile today.