About the song
“Johnny Angel” is a classic pop song that has captured the hearts of audiences across generations. Written by Lyn Duddy and Lee Pockriss, the song was first recorded by Laurie Loman and Georgia Lee, though their versions failed to make a significant impact. It wasn’t until Shelley Fabares recorded the track in the fall of 1961 that “Johnny Angel” truly soared. Released in early 1962 on the Colpix label, Fabares’ rendition achieved phenomenal success, reaching the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming a defining hit of the early 1960s.
Fabares, known primarily as an actress from her role on “The Donna Reed Show,” ventured into music with this debut single. Her recording, produced by Stu Phillips, features backing vocals from the Blossoms, led by the renowned Darlene Love. The song’s sweet melody and Fabares’ emotive delivery tell the story of a teenage girl’s infatuation with a boy who remains oblivious to her feelings. The track’s arrangement includes an echo effect on the repeated “Johnny Angel” phrase, adding a distinctive touch to its sound. Despite her success with this single, Fabares’ music career did not continue to achieve the same level of acclaim, though “Johnny Angel” remains a nostalgic favorite.
The song’s impact extended beyond Fabares’ version. British singer Patti Lynn released her own cover of “Johnny Angel” in March 1962, which enjoyed moderate success on the UK Singles Chart. Additionally, in 1973, the American pop duo The Carpenters included “Johnny Angel” in a medley of oldies on their album *Now & Then*. Their rendition, though brief, paid homage to the song’s enduring charm.
The track has been featured in various media over the years, including films and TV shows, underscoring its lasting appeal. Notably, “Johnny Angel” was featured in the 1990 film *Mermaids* and has been referenced in other works, such as Joni Mitchell’s “The Beat of Black Wings.” Its timeless quality and evocative lyrics have ensured that it continues to resonate with audiences, maintaining its status as a cherished pop classic.
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-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