Before Bobby Sherman became one of the most beloved teen idols of the late 1960s and early 1970s, he released a little-known single that quietly marked the beginning of his music career. That song was “Judy, You’ll Never Know,” a heartfelt ballad recorded in 1962 and released on the independent Starcrest Records label.
Though the record never made it onto the charts, it offers a fascinating glimpse into Sherman’s early artistry and the musical influences that shaped his rise to stardom.
The Story Behind “Judy, You’ll Never Know”
The single was written by Sal Mineo, the actor and teenage heartthrob who was branching into songwriting at the time. Mineo not only penned “Judy, You’ll Never Know” but also its B-side, “The Telegram.” Both tracks carried the signature emotional intensity Mineo was known for, but in a pop music setting tailored to Sherman’s tender vocals.
At just 19 years old, Bobby Sherman was still carving out his place in the entertainment industry. This early collaboration with Mineo provided him with a valuable stepping stone, even if the single didn’t achieve commercial success.
Musical Style & Themes
“Judy, You’ll Never Know” is a romantic pop ballad infused with doo-wop influences—a sound that was hugely popular in the late 1950s and early 1960s.
The lyrics tell the story of unspoken love—a boy deeply in love with Judy, yet too shy or reserved to confess his feelings. Instead, he keeps his emotions locked away, singing them softly into the song. This gives the track a bittersweet, tender and wistful quality that makes it especially touching.
Sherman’s performance carries a sense of innocence and intimacy, foreshadowing the vocal warmth that would later define his biggest hits.
Why the Single Matters
Although “Judy, You’ll Never Know” never charted, it remains a significant part of Bobby Sherman’s early discography. It reflects the struggles of a young artist on the cusp of a breakthrough, experimenting with sound and building confidence before fame arrived.
The track eventually resurfaced in 1990, when it was included in the compilation album “What Came Before” (Teen Ager Records). This reissue gave fans a chance to rediscover Sherman’s roots and appreciate his musical journey from local singer to national teen idol.
Listening Today
Thanks to digital preservation and fan dedication, “Judy, You’ll Never Know” hasn’t been lost to time. You can still find recordings online, including vintage uploads on YouTube, that capture the charm and innocence of Sherman’s performance.
For longtime fans, it’s a nostalgic listen. For newcomers, it’s a fascinating introduction to Bobby Sherman’s earliest work and the start of his rise in pop music history.
Final Thoughts
Bobby Sherman’s “Judy, You’ll Never Know” may not have topped the charts, but it represents the humble beginnings of a future superstar. With its heartfelt lyrics, doo-wop flavor, and emotional sincerity, the single is more than just a forgotten relic—it’s a window into the moment before Sherman captured America’s heart.
If you love discovering hidden gems from the golden era of pop, this track deserves a spot on your playlist.