About the song
“Johnny Angel” by Shelley Fabares is a quintessential pop tune from the early 1960s, capturing the innocent charm and youthful longing of its era. Released in 1962, this song quickly became a favorite among teenagers and has since maintained its nostalgic appeal.
The song was written by veteran songwriters Lyn Duddy and Lee Pockriss, who were known for their ability to craft catchy, relatable songs. “Johnny Angel” was included on Shelley Fabares’ debut album, “Shelley!” The album showcased her talents beyond her acting career, particularly her role as Mary Stone on the popular television series “The Donna Reed Show.”
“Johnny Angel” tells the story of a young girl’s infatuation with a boy named Johnny. The lyrics express her deep admiration and hope that he will notice her someday. With lines like “Johnny Angel, how I love him / He’s got something that I can’t resist,” the song beautifully encapsulates the innocent and sometimes bittersweet nature of teenage crushes.
The production of the song features lush orchestration and backing vocals from the iconic girl group, The Blossoms, which included Darlene Love. This combination of Shelley’s sweet voice and the rich harmonies provided a perfect backdrop that resonated with the youth of the time.
Upon its release, “Johnny Angel” quickly climbed the charts, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in April 1962, where it stayed for two weeks. It also enjoyed success on the Cash Box Top 100 and other music charts of the time. Its popularity was further bolstered by Shelley’s appearances on “The Donna Reed Show,” where she performed the song, giving it widespread exposure.
The song’s success marked Shelley Fabares’ transition from a television actress to a pop music star, albeit briefly. Despite not having a long-lasting music career, “Johnny Angel” remains a standout hit, emblematic of the early ’60s pop sound and the era’s cultural landscape.
“Johnny Angel” is remembered fondly not only for its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics but also for its portrayal of the innocent and hopeful nature of young love. For many, it brings back memories of a simpler time when music provided a comforting and relatable escape. Shelley Fabares’ performance, coupled with the song’s timeless appeal, ensures that “Johnny Angel” continues to be a beloved classic for generations of listeners.
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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