Shelley Fabares – Johnny Angel, (1961)

About the song

“Johnny Angel” is a classic pop song that captured the hearts of teenagers in the early 1960s. Written by Lyn Duddy and Lee Pockriss, the song first gained popularity through Shelley Fabares’ iconic rendition. Released in 1962, Fabares’ version soared to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart, cementing her status as a rising star.

The song’s enduring appeal lies in its relatable lyrics and catchy melody. It tells the story of a young girl’s unrequited love for a boy she admires from afar. The lyrics express her longing and the intensity of her feelings, making it a timeless anthem for teenage dreams.

Fabares’ performance of “Johnny Angel” was both heartfelt and energetic. Her youthful vocals perfectly captured the song’s emotional depth, resonating with listeners of all ages. The track’s arrangement, featuring the soulful harmonies of Darlene Love and her group, The Blossoms, added to its overall charm and appeal.

Although Fabares’ music career didn’t continue to reach the same heights as her acting career, “Johnny Angel” remains her most enduring legacy. The song has become a beloved oldies classic, its popularity enduring long after its initial release. Its timeless message of teenage longing and its infectious melody continue to captivate audiences today.

Video

Lyrics

(Johnny Angel, Johnny Angel, Johnny Angel, Johnny Angel)
You’re an angel to me

Johnny Angel, how I love him
He’s got something that I can’t resist
But he doesn’t even know that I-I-I exist

Johnny 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 concentrate

On 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 concentrate

On 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