About the song
The Chordettes, an iconic American female vocal quartet, left an indelible mark on the music landscape of the 1950s and early 1960s. Specializing in traditional pop music, they achieved enduring fame with their harmonious melodies and distinctive style. Founded in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, in 1946, the original lineup consisted of Janet Ertel Bleyer, Alice Mae Buschmann Spielvogel, Dorothy “Dottie” Schwartz, and Jinny Osborn/Lockard.
Initially drawn to folk music akin to The Weavers, the Chordettes later transitioned to a harmonizing style known as barbershop harmony or close harmony, influenced significantly by Osborn’s background and her father’s involvement with the Barbershop Harmony Society. Their breakthrough came in 1949 when they won on Arthur Godfrey’s Talent Scouts radio program, subsequently becoming regulars on his show and signing with Columbia Records. However, it was their move to Cadence Records in the 1950s under the guidance of Archie Bleyer, where they truly found their commercial stride.
In 1954, the Chordettes launched their solo career with the chart-topping hit “Mr. Sandman,” followed by another million-selling single, “Lollipop,” in 1958. Their success continued with memorable tracks like “Eddie My Love,” “Born to Be With You,” and “Just Between You and Me,” solidifying their place in pop music history. They even ventured into television, appearing on shows like the Robert Q. Lewis Show and American Bandstand.
Despite lineup changes over the years, including Osborn’s temporary departure and replacements such as Lynn Evans and Margie Needham, the Chordettes maintained their musical excellence until disbanding in 1963. Their impact, however, endured. In 2001, they were rightfully inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame, cementing their legacy as pioneers of vocal harmony.
Beyond their musical achievements, the Chordettes’ influence persists in unexpected ways. In mid-2023, their song “Pink Shoe Laces” experienced a resurgence in popularity thanks to viral dance videos on platforms like TikTok and YouTube, demonstrating the enduring appeal of their music across generations.
Tragically, members of the Chordettes have since passed away, but their contributions to music live on through their recordings, continuing to inspire and delight audiences worldwide.
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Lyrics
Mr. Sandman, bring me a dream (bung, bung, bung, bung)
Make him the cutest that I’ve ever seen (bung, bung, bung, bung)
Give him two lips like roses and clover (bung, bung, bung, bung)
Then tell him that his lonesome nights are over
Sandman, I’m so alone (bung, bung, bung, bung)
Don’t have nobody to call my own (bung, bung, bung, bung)
Please turn on your magic beam
Mr. Sandman, bring me a dream
Mr. Sandman, bring me a dream
Make him the cutest that I’ve ever seen
Give him the word that I’m not a rover
Then tell him that his lonesome nights are over
Sandman, I’m so alone
Don’t have nobody to call my own
Please turn on your magic beam
Mr. Sandman, bring me a dream
Mr. Sandman (yes) bring us a dream
Give him a pair of eyes with a “come-hither” gleam
Give him a lonely heart like Pagliacci
And lots of wavy hair like Liberace
Mr. Sandman, someone to hold (someone to hold)
Would be so peachy before we’re too old
So please turn on your magic beam
Mr. Sandman, bring us, please, please, please
Mr. Sandman, bring us a dream