About the Song
“Johnny Angel” is a song written by Lyn Duddy and Lee Pockriss and first recorded by Laurie Loman in 1961. However, it was the cover version by Shelley Fabares that became the biggest hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1962.
Fabares was a young actress at the time, starring in the sitcom “The Donna Reed Show.” She had no previous experience as a recording artist, but her natural talent and charisma shone through on “Johnny Angel.” The song is a sweet and innocent ode to a teenage crush, and Fabares’s vocals capture the excitement and uncertainty of first love.
The song’s catchy melody and simple lyrics have made it a classic of the bubblegum pop genre. It has been covered by many artists over the years, but Fabares’s version remains the definitive one. “Johnny Angel” is a timeless song that will continue to be enjoyed by generations to come.
Some additional details about the song and its impact:
- The song was featured in an episode of “The Donna Reed Show,” which helped to boost its popularity.
- “Johnny Angel” was one of the first bubblegum pop songs to become a major hit.
- The song’s success helped to launch Fabares’s recording career. She went on to release several more hit singles, including “Follow Me” and “One Boy.”
- “Johnny Angel” has been covered by many artists over the years, including The Carpenters, Olivia Newton-John, and Donny Osmond.
- The song is still popular today and is often played on oldies radio stations.
Here are some interesting facts about Shelley Fabares:
- She was born on January 19, 1944, in Los Angeles, California.
- She began her acting career as a child, appearing in several television shows and movies.
- She starred in “The Donna Reed Show” from 1958 to 1963.
- She had a successful recording career in the early 1960s.
- She continued to act in television and movies throughout her career.
- She is married to actor Mike Farrell. They have been married since 1964.
I hope this helps!