“Oh Sherrie” is a song by Steve Perry, released in 1984 with “Don’t Tell Me Why You’re Leaving” on the B-side as the lead single from his debut solo album, Street Talk. It became Perry’s biggest solo hit, reaching No. 3 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and solidifying his success outside of Journey, the band he fronted for years.
The song is a passionate rock ballad with a powerful vocal performance from Perry, showcasing his signature soaring voice. It features big drums, dramatic synths, and anthemic guitar riffs, embodying the arena rock sound of the ’80s. Lyrically, “Oh Sherrie” is a love song inspired by Perry’s then-girlfriend, Sherrie Swafford, expressing deep devotion and longing. The chorus—”You should’ve been gone, knowing how I made you feel”—is one of the most iconic moments in ’80s rock.
The music video became a staple on MTV, featuring Perry in a medieval castle set before breaking the fourth wall to reveal it as a production shoot. It was filmed at the historic entertainment venue the Park Plaza Hotel – now called the MacArthur, located at 607 South Park View St. in Los Angeles, CA.
“Oh Sherrie” remains one of the most beloved power ballads of the 1980s and a defining song of Steve Perry’s solo career, often praised for its raw emotion, vocal strength, and timeless appeal.