About the song
“Johnny Angel” is a classic pop song with a charming history. Written by Lyn Duddy and Lee Pockriss, the song was first recorded by Laurie Loman and Georgia Lee in the early 1960s, but neither version made a significant impact. It wasn’t until Shelley Fabares recorded it in late 1961 that the song truly found its success. Released in early 1962, Fabares’ rendition quickly captured the hearts of many and soared to the top of the Billboard Hot 100, where it remained a hit for several weeks.
Shelley Fabares was relatively new to the music scene when she recorded “Johnny Angel,” which became her debut pop single. The song was featured on her first solo album, *Shelley!*, and was produced by Stu Phillips. Interestingly, the song was first showcased on her TV show, *The Donna Reed Show*, which added to its visibility and popularity.
The track is notable for its sweet, nostalgic tone. It tells the story of a teenage girl who is infatuated with a boy named Johnny, whom she feels does not notice her. Her devotion is so strong that she turns down other boys, remaining focused solely on her romantic interest. The song features background vocals from Darlene Love and her group, the Blossoms, who added a rich, emotional layer to the recording.
Musicians like Hal Blaine, Carol Kaye, and Glen Campbell also contributed to the song, making it a polished and memorable piece of pop history. Despite Fabares’ continued success as an actress, her singing career didn’t maintain the same level of prominence after “Johnny Angel.” Nonetheless, the song remains a beloved classic, frequently played on oldies radio stations and cherished by fans of the era.
“Johnny Angel” was a commercial success, selling over a million copies and earning a gold disc. It topped the Billboard Hot 100, reached number one on the Cashbox Top 100 Best Sellers, and even charted internationally. This iconic song holds a special place in pop music history, remembered fondly for its melodic charm and heartfelt lyrics.
Video
Lyrics
(Johnny Angel, Johnny Angel, Johnny Angel)
Johnny Angel, you’re an angel to meJohnny Angel, how I love him
He’s got something that I can’t resist
But he doesn’t even know that I existJohnny Angel, how I want him
How I tingle when he passes by
Every time he says hello, my heart begins to fly(I’m in Heaven) I get carried away
I dream of him and me
And how it’s gonna be
(Other fellas) Call me up for a date
But I just sit and wait
I’d rather concentrateOn Johnny Angel (Johnny Angel)
‘Cause I love him (‘Cause I love him)
And I pray that someday he’ll love me
And together we will see
How lovely Heaven will be