Bobby Sherman – “Hey, Mister Sun” (1970): A Ray of Pop Sunshine from a Teen Idol Era

Released in May 1970 by Metromedia Records, “Hey, Mister Sun” marked another bright moment in the chart-topping career of Bobby Sherman — one of the most beloved teen idols of the late 1960s and early 1970s. With his clean-cut image, earnest vocals, and wholesome charm, Sherman had already captured the hearts of millions through hits like “Little Woman” and “Easy Come, Easy Go.” This single, though not his biggest commercial success, further solidified his presence in the pop music scene of the era.

Peaking at No. 24 on the Billboard Hot 100, No. 13 in Canada, and an impressive No. 3 on the Billboard Easy Listening chart, “Hey, Mister Sun” showcased Sherman’s crossover appeal — resonating not only with his teenage fanbase but also with a broader, more adult audience. Its breezy, uplifting melody and gentle optimism felt like a dose of musical sunshine during a time when the cultural mood was shifting rapidly.

The song was written by Danny Janssen, a frequent collaborator responsible for many of Sherman’s biggest hits, and produced by Jackie Mills, who crafted a polished, radio-ready sound using top-tier session musicians. The lineup included guitar legend James Burton, pianist Don Randi, and drummer Jim Gordon — names more commonly associated with rock royalty but here lending their talents to an easy-listening pop gem.

The B-side of the single, “Two Blind Minds,” garnered less attention but helped round out the release. Both tracks appeared on the 1970 album With Love, Bobby, which arrived during the peak of Sherman’s fame, capitalizing on his TV appearances, fan magazine covers, and sold-out performances.

While “Hey, Mister Sun” may not have achieved the gold certification of his earlier hits, it remains a fan favorite — a nostalgic reminder of an era when Bobby Sherman was not just a singer, but a cultural phenomenon. The song’s light, hopeful tone captures a fleeting but cherished moment in pop history — sunny, simple, and sincerely sweet.