The Meaning Behind The Song: Oh Sherrie by Steve Perry - Old Time Music (2024)

As a Music Therapist, I have witnessed firsthand the power of music in connecting people to their emotions and memories. One song that has always held a special place in my heart is “Oh Sherrie” by Steve Perry. This classic 1984 hit carries a deep emotional resonance, and its lyrics speak volumes about love, longing, and letting go.

I first heard this song on a road trip with some friends, and it instantly grabbed my attention. The opening lines, “You should’ve been gone, Knowing how I made you feel,” struck a chord within me. It reminded me of a time when I had held onto a relationship for far too long, even though I knew deep down that it was time to let go. This song became an anthem of sorts, allowing me to reflect on my own experiences and find solace in the words.

The song is dedicated to Sherrie Swafford, who appears in the song’s official music video. Swafford was Perry’s longtime girlfriend at the time, and her presence in the video adds another layer of meaning to the song. It becomes not just a personal declaration of love, but also a public declaration to Swafford and the depth of their connection.

The chorus of “Oh Sherrie, our love holds on, holds on” repeats throughout the song and serves as a reminder of the enduring power of love. It speaks to the desire to hold on to a relationship and keep the love alive, even when faced with challenges and doubt. The repetition of these lines reinforces the emotional intensity and the longing that Perry feels for his beloved Sherrie.

However, there is also a bittersweet undertone to the song. In the second verse, Perry acknowledges that he wants to let go because he knows that staying in the relationship will only continue to cause pain. This conflict between holding on and letting go is something many of us can relate to. It shows the complexity of emotions that come with love and the struggles we face when trying to make the best decisions for ourselves and our partners.

The bridge of the song introduces the notion that both Perry and Sherrie should have been gone a long time ago. This recognition adds a layer of regret and highlights the importance of recognizing when it’s time to move on. It serves as a subtle reminder that sometimes the best thing we can do for ourselves and our loved ones is to let go and move forward.

Throughout the song, Perry’s powerful vocals and the emotional depth of the lyrics create a compelling and evocative experience for the listener. It’s no wonder that “Oh Sherrie” became such a big hit for Perry and remains his most successful solo single to this day.

In my work as a Music Therapist, I have used “Oh Sherrie” as a tool to help clients explore their own emotions and experiences in relationships. It serves as a catalyst for introspection and encourages conversations about love, loss, and personal growth.

In conclusion, “Oh Sherrie” by Steve Perry is a heartfelt ballad that delves into the complexities of love, longing, and the difficult decisions we face in relationships. Its emotional resonance and relatable themes have made it a timeless classic, and it continues to touch the hearts of listeners to this day.

“Oh Sherrie” Lyrics:

Album title: Street Talk (1984)