About the song
**”Johnny Angel” – Shelley Fabares’ Timeless Hit**
“Johnny Angel,” a timeless classic in the realm of pop music, captured the hearts of listeners when Shelley Fabares first brought it to life in 1962. Written by Lyn Duddy and Lee Pockriss, the song’s journey to fame was not immediate; initial versions by Laurie Loman and Georgia Lee did not achieve success. However, Fabares’ rendition proved to be the charm, soaring to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart and cementing its place in music history.
Fabares’ version of “Johnny Angel” was recorded amidst her flourishing acting career, notably on the popular sitcom “The Donna Reed Show,” where she starred as Donna Reed’s daughter. The song made its debut on an episode of the show, adding a special connection between Fabares’ television persona and her budding music career. Produced and arranged by Stu Phillips, the track featured backing vocals by Darlene Love and her group, the Blossoms, adding depth and harmony to Fabares’ sweet vocals.
The song’s lyrics resonate with a universal theme of teenage infatuation and unrequited love. It tells the story of a young girl’s admiration for “Johnny Angel,” who remains oblivious to her affections. Fabares’ delicate delivery, paired with the lush arrangement and the iconic echo chamber effect on the chorus, created a dreamy atmosphere that resonated with listeners of all ages.
“Johnny Angel” achieved remarkable success beyond the United States, reaching number 1 on charts in Canada and New Zealand, while also making an impact in the United Kingdom. Its popularity was further solidified by its sales figures, earning Fabares a gold disc for selling over one million copies.
Despite “Johnny Angel” being Fabares’ sole number 1 hit, its enduring popularity has kept it alive through decades, regularly featured on oldies radio stations and cherished by fans of nostalgic pop music. The song’s legacy extends beyond its chart-topping success, encapsulating a moment in musical history where innocence and romance intertwined seamlessly.
In subsequent years, “Johnny Angel” has been covered and appreciated by various artists, including a notable rendition by British singer Patti Lynn. Its inclusion in The Carpenters’ medley in 1973 further solidified its status as a beloved classic.
Today, “Johnny Angel” remains a testament to Shelley Fabares’ talent and the timeless appeal of a well-crafted pop song. Its enchanting melody and heartfelt lyrics continue to captivate audiences, ensuring that “Johnny Angel” will forever hold a special place in the hearts of music lovers worldwide.
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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-I-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(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(Johnny Angel, Johnny Angel)
Johnny Angel (Johnny Angel) you’re an angel to me(Johnny Angel, Johnny Angel)
Johnny Angel (Johnny Angel) you’re an angel to me