About the Song
“Johnny Angel” is a song recorded by American singer Shelley Fabares in 1962. The song was written by Vic Mizzy and Hal Shaper and was released as the B-side of Fabares’s single “Follow You Follow Me.” However, “Johnny Angel” quickly became the more popular of the two songs, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States.
The song is a sweet and innocent ballad about a teenage girl who is head over heels in love with a boy named Johnny Angel. The lyrics describe the girl’s longing for Johnny and her dreams of one day being with him. Fabares’s vocals are soft and gentle, perfectly capturing the song’s romantic atmosphere.
“Johnny Angel” was a huge hit with teenagers in the 1960s. The song’s catchy melody and relatable lyrics made it a staple of sock hops and slumber parties. The song also appeared in several films and television shows of the era, including the 1963 movie “Bye Bye Birdie.”
Today, “Johnny Angel” is considered a classic of the teen pop genre. The song has been covered by many artists over the years, including Olivia Newton-John, The Beach Boys, and Carly Rae Jepsen. However, Fabares’s version remains the definitive recording.
“Johnny Angel” is a timeless song about the joys and heartaches of teenage love. The song’s simple yet effective lyrics and Fabares’s charming vocals have made it a favorite of generations of listeners. If you’re looking for a song to take you back to your teenage years, “Johnny Angel” is the perfect choice.
Here are some additional details about the song and its impact:
- The song was inspired by Mizzy’s daughter, who was a teenager at the time.
- The song’s popularity helped to launch Fabares’s career as a singer and actress.
- “Johnny Angel” was one of the first songs to be played on American Top 40, a weekly radio countdown show that premiered in 1964.
- The song has been used in numerous commercials and television shows, including “The Wonder Years” and “Happy Days.”
- “Johnny Angel” was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2002.
“Johnny Angel” is a delightful song that captures the essence of teenage romance. Its catchy melody and heartwarming lyrics have made it a classic that continues to be enjoyed by listeners of all ages.