About the song
“Johnny Angel” is a timeless classic that epitomizes the innocence and longing of teenage romance in the early 1960s pop music landscape. Penned by Lyn Duddy and Lee Pockriss, the song first found its voice through various artists but soared to fame with Shelley Fabares’ rendition in 1962, topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Fabares, already familiar to audiences through her role in “The Donna Reed Show,” catapulted to musical stardom with this debut single.
Recorded against the backdrop of her burgeoning television career, Fabares’ version of “Johnny Angel” was an instant hit, enhanced by the melodic backing vocals of Darlene Love and the Blossoms. Despite her initial hesitation about singing, Fabares delivered a heartfelt performance that resonated with listeners across the United States and beyond. The song’s narrative of unrequited love struck a chord with its audience, capturing the essence of youthful longing and devotion.
The success of “Johnny Angel” not only cemented Fabares’ place in music history but also underscored the song’s enduring appeal, as evidenced by its international chart presence and sales figures. Its charm extended to a sequel song, “Johnny Loves Me,” which further explored the romantic narrative introduced in the original track.
Over the years, “Johnny Angel” has retained its cultural significance, making appearances in films like “Mermaids” and TV shows such as “My So-Called Life.” Its legacy is further enriched by covers from artists like Patti Lynn and even The Carpenters, showcasing its lasting influence on subsequent generations of musicians.
Beyond its commercial success, “Johnny Angel” remains a cherished piece of pop music history, embodying the innocence and nostalgia of an era defined by its heartfelt melodies and evocative lyrics. Shelley Fabares’ rendition stands as a testament to the song’s enduring ability to evoke emotions and capture the essence of youthful romance, making it a beloved classic that continues to captivate listeners worldwide.
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Lyrics
Johnny Angel
You’re an angel to me (Sha dum da dum, sha dum da dum)
Johnny Angel (Sha dum da dum)
How I love him (Sha dum da dum)
He’s got something that I can’t resist (Ah, da dum, da dum dum)
But he doesn’t even know (Ah, da dum, da dum dum)
That I exist (Sha dum da dum dum, sha dum da dum)
Johnny Angel (Sha dum da dum)
How I want him (Sha dum da dum)
How I tingle when he passes by (Ah, da dum, da dum dum)
Everytime he says hello (Ah, da dum, da dum dum)
My heart begins to fly (Sha dum da dum)
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 (Da dum)
I’d rather concentrate
On Johnny Angel (Johnny Angel)
‘Cause I love him (‘Cause I love him)
And I pray that someday he’ll love me (Ah, da dum, da dum dum)
And together we will see (Ah, da dum, da dum dum)
How lovely Heaven will be (Sha dum da dum)
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 (Ooh ooh ooh ooh)
I’d rather concentrate (Ooh ooh ooh ooh)
On Johnny Angel (Johnny Angel)
‘Cause I love him (‘Cause I love him)
And I pray that someday he’ll love me (Ah, da dum, da dum dum)
And together we will see (Ah, da dum, da dum dum)
How lovely Heaven will be (Johnny Angel)
Johnny Angel (Johnny Angel)
You’re an angel to me (Ooh)
Johnny Angel (Johnny Angel)
You’re an angel to me (Ooh)
Johnny Angel