Michele Ann Marie "Shelley" Fabares ( January 19, 1944) is an American actr… Read Full Bio ↴Michele Ann Marie "Shelley" Fabares ( January 19, 1944) is an American actress and singer. Fabares is known for her roles as Donna Reed's daughter Mary Stone on The Donna Reed Show (1958–1963), and as Hayden Fox's love interest (and eventual wife) Christine Armstrong on the sitcom Coach (1989–1997). She was Elvis Presley's co-star in three films. In 1962, her recording of "Johnny Angel" reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Michele Ann Marie Fabares was born in Santa Monica, California. She is the niece of actress Nanette Fabray. Fabares began acting at age three, and at age 10 made her television debut in an episode of Letter to Loretta. After guest-starring on various television series, Fabares landed the role of Mary Stone in the long-running family sitcom The Donna Reed Show.

Her national popularity led to a recording contract and two "Top 40" hits, including "Johnny Angel," which went to number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in April 1962, and peaked at number 41 in the UK. It sold over one million copies and was certified gold. Fabares left The Donna Reed Show in 1963 (she would return periodically until its end in 1966) to pursue a film career. She appeared in a number of motion pictures, including three Elvis Presley movies: Girl Happy (1965), Spinout (1966), and Clambake (1967), the most by any one actress. In two other 1960s movies, she played the love interest of Peter Noone of Herman's Hermits in Hold On! and of a young Hank Williams, Jr. in A Time to Sing.

During the 1970s, Fabares appeared on several television series, including Love, American Style, The Rockford Files, The Interns, Mannix, The Practice, Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman, and Fantasy Island. In 1971, she starred along with Billy Dee Williams and James Caan in the successful TV movie Brian's Song, the true story of terminally ill Chicago Bears running back Brian Piccolo. Caan played Piccolo, and she played his wife, Joy. In 1981, Fabares played Francine Webster on One Day at a Time, a role she reprised throughout the series' run.

In 1989, she won the role of Christine Armstrong Fox on the ABC sitcom Coach. For her work, Fabares was nominated twice for a Primetime Emmy Award, and in 1994, she was honored by the Young Artist Foundation with its Former Child Star "Lifetime Achievement" Award for her role as Mary Stone on The Donna Reed Show. After Coach ended in 1997, Fabares voiced the role of Martha "Ma" Kent in Superman: The Animated Series. She reprised the role twice, once for a 2003 episode of Justice League and again for the 2006 direct-to-video film Superman: Brainiac Attacks.

Fabares was a lifelong friend of Annette Funicello, whom she met in catechism class in the seventh grade. She was at Annette's bedside with her family when she died of multiple sclerosis on April 8, 2013.

Fabares married record and movie producer Lou Adler in June 1964, separated in 1966, and was divorced in 1980. In 1984, she married actor Mike Farrell, and is stepmother to his two children, Erin and Michael.

In October 2000, Fabares received a life-saving liver transplant after being diagnosed with autoimmune hepatitis.

Discography

Studio albums
Shelley! -- Colpix CP-426 (Mono)/SCP-426 (Stereo) -- #106, 7/62
The Things We Did Last Summer—Colpix CP-431/SCP-431 -- #121, 10/62
Teenage Triangle—Colpix CP-444/SCP-444 -- #48, 5/63
Featuring four tracks each by Shelley, James Darren and Paul Petersen
Bye Bye Birdie—Colpix CP-454/SCP-454—1963
Songs from the movie sung by Shelley, The Marcels, James Darren and Paul Petersen
More Teenage Triangle—Colpix CP-468/SCP-468—1964
Second compilation featuring Shelley, James Darren and Paul Petersen
Soundtrack songs[edit]
"Spring Fever" (1965) w/Elvis Presley from the movie Girl Happy (The soundtrack album only features Elvis' vocals)
"Make Me Happy" (March 1966) from the movie soundtrack of Hold On! MGM Records
"Next Time I Say Goodbye I'm Leaving" (1968) from the movie soundtrack of A Time to Sing (Music From The Original Soundtrack) MCA Records– MCA-1458

Compilations
Rare Items And Big Hits Colpix (1989)
The Best of Shelley Fabares Rhino R2 71651—1994
Shelley Fabares Johnny Angel Collectables #9931 July 2005
Shelley Fabares Meets Paul Petersen Collectables Records July 2009
Growing Up-The 1962 Recordings Jasmine 2014
Singles[edit]
Year Title B-Side U.S. Label and number
February 1962 "Johnny Angel" "Where's It Gonna Get Me" 1[2] Colpix 621
April 1962 "What Did They Do Before Rock 'n' Roll"(with Paul Petersen) "Very Unlikely"
(with Paul Petersen)
-
Colpix 631
May 1962 "Johnny Loves Me" "I'm Growing Up" 21[12] Colpix 636
August 1962 "The Things We Did Last Summer" "Breaking Up is Hard to Do" 46[13] Colpix 654
December 1962 "Telephone (Won't You Ring)" "Big Star" 109[14] Colpix 667
March 1963 "Ronnie, Call Me When You Get a Chance" "I Left a Note to Say Goodbye" 72[15] Colpix 682
October 1963 "Welcome Home" "Billy Boy"
-
Colpix 705
January 1964 "Football Season's Over" "He Don't Love Me"
-
Colpix 721
September 1964 "I Know You'll Be There" "Lost Summer Love"
-
Vee-Jay VJ632
May 1965 "My Prayer" "Pretty Please"
-
Dunhill D-4001
August 1966 "See Ya 'Round On the Rebound" "Pretty Please"
-
Dunhill D-4041

Filmography
Film
Year Title Role Notes
1955 The Girl Rush Kim - Age 9 Uncredited
1956 Never Say Goodbye Suzy Parker
1956 The Bad Seed Margie Uncredited
1957 Jeanne Eagels Teenage Girl Uncredited
1958 Summer Love Twinkie Daley
1958 Marjorie Morningstar Seth's Girl Friend Uncredited
1964 Ride the Wild Surf Brie Matthews
1965 Girl Happy Valerie Frank
1966 Hold On! Louisa Page Alternative title: There's No Place Like Space
1966 Spinout Cynthia Foxhugh
1967 Clambake Dianne Carter
1968 A Time to Sing Amy Carter
1971 Brian's Song Joy Piccolo
1987 Hot Pursuit Buffy Cronenberg
1990 Love or Money LuAnn Reed Alternative title: For Love or Money
2006 Superman: Brainiac Attacks Martha Kent (Voice) Direct-to-video release

Television
Year Title Role Notes
1954–1958 Letter to Loretta Marie Schumann
Kathy 2 episodes
1955 Producers' Showcase Rebecca Gibbs 1 episode
1955 Matinee Theater Young Cathy 1 episode
1955 Captain Midnight Mary Kingsley 1 episode
1956 Annie Oakley Prudy Warren 1 episode
1957 Fury Midge Mallon 1 episode
1958 Walt Disney Presents: Annette Moselle Corey 15 episodes
1958–1965 The Donna Reed Show Mary Stone 191 episodes
1959 The Rebel Nora Hendry 1 episode
1963 Mr. Novak Dani Cooper 2 episodes
1964 The Eleventh Hour Carol Hamilton 1 episode
1964 Arrest and Trial Donna Blaney 1 episode
1964 The Twilight Zone Ellen Tillman 1 episode
1968 The Ghost & Mrs. Muir Vanessa 1 episode
1969 Daniel Boone Charity Brown 1 episode
1969 Lancer Melissa Harper 1 episode
1969 Bracken's World Hilary Saxon 1 episode
1969 Medical Center "Mike" Carter 1 episode
1971 Longstreet Marianne Franklin 1 episode
1971 Brian's Song Joy Piccolo Television movie
1971 Owen Marshall: Counselor at Law Lorraine Latham 1 episode
1972 McCloud Natalie Rudell 1 episode
1972 Cade's County Stephanie 1 episode
1972 The Brian Keith Show Dr. Anne Jamison Unknown episodes
1974 Police Story Annette Weiner 1 episode
1974 Ironside Charlotte Black 1 episode
1974 The Rockford Files Jolene Hyland 1 episode
1975 The Rookies Ann McNeal 1 episode
1975 Matt Helm Chris/Tina 1 episode
1975 Barnaby Jones Susan Burke 1 episode
1976 Marcus Welby, M.D. Norma Fritchie 1 episode
1976 Spencer's Pilots Annette 1 episode
1976-1977 The Practice Jenny Bedford 27 episodes
1977–1978 Forever Fernwood Eleanor Major Unknown episodes
1978 Vega$ Linda Stockwood 1 episode
1978 The Incredible Hulk Holly Cooper 1 episode
1978–1984 One Day at a Time Francine Webster 23 episodes
1979 Hello, Larry Marion Alder 3 episodes
1979 Highcliffe Manor Helen 6 episodes
1980–1981 Mork & Mindy Cathy 3 episodes
1980–1985 The Love Boat Various roles 3 episodes
1983 Matt Houston Barbara Newton 1 episode
1983 ABC Afterschool Special Fran Brogliatti 1 episode
1983 Memorial Day Ellie Walker Television movie
1985 The Canterville Ghost Lucy Television movie
1985 Suburban Beat Mimi Television movie
1987 Newhart Diane Beckwith 1 episode
1988 Run Till You Fall Kathy Reuben Television movie
1989 Murder, She Wrote Liza Caspar 2 episodes
1989–1997 Coach Christine Armstrong 199 episodes
1993 Deadly Relations Shirley Fagot Television movie
1995 The Great Mom Swap Millie Ridgeway Television movie
1996 Superman: The Last Son of Krypton Martha Kent (Voice) Television movie
1996–1998 Superman: The Animated Series Martha Kent (Voice) 8 episodes
1997 A Nightmare Come True Lily Zarn Television movie
1998 Playing to Win: A Moment of Truth Movie Nancy Erickson Television movie
2003 Justice League Ma Kent (Voice) 1 episode

Awards and nominations

Year Award Result Category Film or series
1993 Primetime Emmy Award Nominated Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series Coach
1994 Coach
1965 Laurel Awards Nominated New Faces, Female
-
2004 TV Land Award Nominated Favorite Teen Dream - Female The Donna Reed Show
1994 Young Artist Award Won Former Child Star Lifetime Achievement Award The Donna Reed Show

Johnny Angel
Shelley Fabares Lyrics

Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴

(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

Overall Meaning

The lyrics to Shelley Fabares's song Johnny Angel depict a teenage girl's infatuation with a boy named Johnny Angel. The song emphasizes how much she loves him and how he's an angel to her, using the repetition of the line "Johnny Angel, Johnny Angel, Johnny Angel, Johnny Angel, you're an angel to me" throughout the song. The singer finds it hard to resist Johnny Angel's charm, but he doesn't even know she exists. She dreams of a future with him and wishes that he would love her back so they can be together in heaven.

The song portrays the innocence and naivety of adolescent love, with the singer feeling intense emotions and daydreaming about romantic notions. The song's lyrics deviate from traditional love songs by highlighting the singer's vulnerability and uncertainty, which is relatable to many teenagers experiencing their first crushes.

In terms of music history, Johnny Angel was a popular song that was written by Lyn Duddy and Lee Pockriss. It was released in 1962 and reached #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It was also nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Rock & Roll Recording. The song's success led to Shelley Fabares appearing on various television shows, including The Donna Reed Show, where she played the role of Mary Stone, and American Bandstand, hosted by Dick Clark.

Line by Line Meaning

Johnny Angel, Johnny Angel, Johnny Angel, Johnny Angel
The singer is repeating the name of the person she loves more than anything.

You're an angel to me
The singer thinks that the person she loves is perfect, like an angel.

Johnny Angel, how I love him
The singer is deeply in love with Johnny Angel.

He's got something that I can't resist
Johnny Angel has some kind of irresistible quality that the artist can't resist.

But he doesn't even know that I-I-I exist
Johnny Angel doesn't know that the artist exists or loves him.

Johnny Angel, how I want him
The singer really wants to be with Johnny Angel.

How I tingle when he passes by
The singer gets a physical reaction when Johnny Angel is near her.

Every time he says "Hello" my heart begins to fly
Johnny Angel saying hello to the artist makes her feel happy and excited.

(I'm in heaven) I get carried away
The artist feels like she's in heaven when she thinks about Johnny Angel.

I dream of him and me and how it's gonna be
The artist dreams about being with Johnny Angel and imagines what their life could be like together.

(Other fellas) call me up for a date
Other guys ask the singer out on dates.

But I just sit and wait, I'd rather concentrate
The artist would rather wait for Johnny Angel and focus on him instead of going out with other guys.

On Johnny Angel (Johnny Angel)
The singer's thoughts and feelings are focused on Johnny Angel.

'Cause I love him ('cause I love him)
The singer loves Johnny Angel very much.

And I pray that someday he'll love me
The singer hopes that Johnny Angel will eventually love her too.

And together we will see how lovely heaven will be
If the artist and Johnny Angel are together, they will experience true happiness.

(Johnny Angel, Johnny Angel)
The artist is thinking about Johnny Angel again.

Johnny Angel (Johnny Angel) you're an angel to me
Johnny Angel is still perfect, like an angel, to the singer.

Lyrics © MUSIC SALES CORPORATION, Kanjian Music, Tratore
Written by: LEE JULIEN POCKRISS, LYN DUDDY

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind

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Comments from YouTube:

@Funnymoney209

19w↑6

I might be the youngest one listening to this song, I’m 17

@thomasmagnum3588

1y↑100

I am 62 years old, and nominate this video for America’s time capsule, perfectly representing the purity and innocence of our once great land - two short years before assassinations, campus riots, Vietnam and Watergate would tear us apart….irrevocably.

@oldtimer794

1y↑3

We actually thought we lived through those terrible events, then 9 11 happened.

@derrickgreen9020

1y↑1

Add 🇬🇧 to that please…..

@potatosalad5355

1y↑1

Dont forget the '62 October missile crisis.....

@brucepacetti2044

I hear ya! USA corrupt now !!

@user-sl5wj4cl6p

39w↑2

I'm 68 and I could not AGREE more. It's been written that the day we lost JFK was the day the music died Camelot was destroyed and as you say our "innocence was irrevocably lost." Thanks for the post, you are so correct.

5 More Replies...

@pvb876287

26w↑17

Ya know in 64 I was 6, my older sister was 12. She played this song everyday for about a year, and no one complained. All these years later it proves what talent we recognized back then. Exceptional portrayal of the way life should be.

@VILJL

1y↑25

Shelley Fabares was born on January 19, 1944 and celebrated her 79th birthday yesterday, January 19, 2023. She was on "The Donna Reed Show" (1958-1963) and the sitcom "Coach" (1989-1997) which earned her two Primetime Emmy Awards nominations. Her recording of "Johnny Angel" reached number one (#1) on the Billboard Hot 100 chart on April of 1962. It was a certified Gold Record, selling over a million copies. I was in eight grade at Miami Springs Junior High School when this song was popular

@brucepacetti2044

Wow I was in Miami too. Ada Merritt Jr high

@VILJL

@@brucepacetti2044 There weren't that many schools in Miami at that time. As you know, Ada Merritt was built in 1923 and it was the first junior high school in Miami. In the 1960s, the school was central to the Cuban community forming in Little Havana. The school was closed in the 1970s; the building was used as a Job Corps center for several years. it was eventually demolished and rebuilt in 2003 with a Spanish colonial-style structure, including the main entrance with the two lion statues. I graduated in 1966 from Hialeah High School and still live in Miami in 2023

@57highland

16w↑1

She was also a semi-regular on "One Day At A Time", where she played "Francie", Ann's friend and business partner. Mid to late 70s.

@annmanchester1483

5w↑1

Love this song. I never knew that Shelley Fabares sang this song. Interesting!!
But another fact, is that she is still married to Mike Farrell (tv shows--B.J. Hunnicutt from M*A*S*H, Jim Hanson from Providence). They were married in 1984.

@gimboid11

49w↑12

absolutely beautiful love the song, and a very beautiful lady.

@richspinaci8293

2y↑118

60 years later, and I never get tired of listening to this song. Pure excellence

@robertknowles2699

2y↑2

Stu Phillips , .using education in a NYC
music High Skool, and Eastman School
of music in Rochester, produced this.
Real pros.

@ChuloRob617

2y↑4

I'm almost 45, i WISH I could of been around then

@zanetierney

Agreed

@craigbatchelor6869

43w

Same here

@MarquisDeSang

37w

This song is immortal, sadly not us.

1 More Replies...

@drjprice

1y↑57

This song is certainly hers, the chemistry is perfect. She owns it

@jimbo43ohara51

37w↑4

Yes, but she didn't have the scope and versatility of a Karen Carpenter.

@carolrice1371

37w↑13

I remember Shelly singing this on the Donna Reed show. I fell in love with it then and I still never get tired of it!❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

@calvinjackson8110

2y↑78

Never tire of seeing this. Shelley and Donna were so elegant, graceful and beautiful.

@mr.blackhawk142

2y↑2

@Calvin, Yup! This reminds me of 'falling in love' so many times as a preteen back then!

@jimsmith9301

7w↑2

Still just as great as when I saw it the first time she sang it! God bless you sweet angel Shelly!! Love!!

@clarebutterfield6927

24w↑2

I was 12 when I first heard this! Shelley Fabares was so pretty. I still have a crush at 73.

@wonderfuloldiesmusic

23w↑1

Have you seen what she looks like now?! Don't look if you still want to hold on to your crush...

@mariacanavan3305

2y↑33

Donna Reed must have been a really great actress to show that emotion for an on screen daughter.

She's like a proud Mother hen looking over her baby gal.

Great acting from Donna & great singing from Shelley...

@Sticks-of-TNT-tf1tn

2y↑4

The colorization of the original black and white print is absolutely astounding! 🧨

@Usage_offical

3y↑15

Omg, Shelley Fabares looks so beautiful

@johndelvecchio5245

2y↑37

I was 2 years old when this song came out.I will never get tired of listening to Shelley beautiful voice.

@helifynoe1034

I was four and in England. But a specific measure of reality entered my mind that was never to be lost.

@genebigs1749

1y↑1

Me too. Born in '59.....wish I could remember that era but it was before my time, so I listen to the music and love it just the same!

@pkmcnett5649

1y↑2

So was I. I liked the Karen Carpenter version, too.

@valeriewilliams6576

2y↑8

Donna Reed was PERFECTLY BEAUTIFUL. I Love the fact that everything was "UNMESSED WITH."

@user-nl2yg3gm4z

10w↑1

This was a great song , I give it a million dollars if I had too it is worth it in every way. Shelly is a true star in her own right . This will make all the boys cry!?

@glenmcgregor3366

I had been here in this country about 3 years when this was recorded. I was in my second year of high school. Still learning how to act in a new home. 5 years later I would find my dream and have spent my life still learning how to act, but I've got Carol to watch and keep me safe.

@chansondarmour

3w↑1

A very outstanding romantic love song still relevant in this day and age

@straightup671

1y↑21

I was born in 1991. Literally just discovered this song yesterday, Jan 15, 2023. Such an amazing song from what I’m sure was an AMAZING era.

@calvinjackson8110

23w

You have no idea how amazing it was to be alive in the 1950s and early 60s and hear the music that came out at this time.

@williamblack4097

4y↑83

Find me a time machine.

@joematus410

3y↑1

Love you babe

@yxz3177

Great Scott!

@jimsmith9301

7w↑1

Happy birthday wonderful beautiful lady! Love you always!! Jim

@scottsdaleglenn

3y↑10

Shelly just adored Donna.

@MikeBlitzMag

3y↑80

That single never, ever gets tiring. Absolute, utter perfection.

@eepanusstar5940

3y↑27

Shelly and Donna-looked like they could be mother and daughter

@mariacanavan3305

2y↑14

I love the innocence of Shelleys voice.

It really sums up the dreaminess of teenage love.

First sung & recorded by Georgia Lee in 1960....

@irish89055

20w

What she's thinking about in her song is not so innocent

@aramirez13303

22w↑1

Gorgeous, ....not a tat in sight ! Just pure natural beauty.

@JonnyQ358

4y↑103

Donna Reed was even more beautiful in color..

@JonnyQ358

3y↑5

@Long Duck Dong The "fact" is in my opinion Donna Reed was a very beautiful and elegant Lady who was even more so in color..And their you have it Mr Dong..

@tincat2173

3y↑4

You are correct, sir!

@Rb1330

3y↑64

Donna Reed was beaming with pride. I think it was both her and her character. She felt it for Shelley and for Mary. Donna's reaction makes that scene.

@oldtimer794

1y↑10

The look on her face is priceless. She is surprised, stunned, and proud all in one look.

@williampaz2092

1y↑2

Absolutely

@cfavalorofavaloro6053

2y↑14

This is so awesome and sure brings back memories, I watched the Donna Reed tv series constantly as a kid, love it

@davetaylor2449

This is a recording that is endless in its innocence, it could never be matched, and should go down in the annals to harken to a time, when people actually were proud of their country and glad to be called Americans.

@ronaldmaxey7476

1y↑7

She was a beautiful woman. and her voice was pure heavenly. ♥Listen to this song many times ♥

@allgood6760

2y↑11

Timeless! .. I will ❤️ this song for as long as I live! 🎶

@geoburr54lacy

2y↑17

The one thing about all the music back then it’s all pure honest talent. What you heard it was real and it was them. No such thing as auto tune back then.

@barrygreen7098

4y↑60

Great reaction by donna reed, like a really proud mom

@kathy2trips

4y↑7

It was no accident that she won an Oscar. She was a superb actress.

@jameswsomers

3y↑10

Ms.Fabares said the Donna Reed was like a second mother to her.

@williampaz2092

2y↑1

A proud mother who suddenly realizes her daughter is now woman and not a girl anymore..

@albertodillon

3y↑36

I can't realise this song is now 60 years in 2021 but l prefer 1961 than 2021

@zodiacbroadubull6781

3y↑4

Love the music aswell but dont live in the past forever, enjoy all music

@hayleynadel6808

3y↑6

@@zodiacbroadubull6781 Geez are you a buzz kill. Just because he said he'd take 1961 over today doesn't mean he's living in the past or only likes this music. I was an adolescent in the 70's, high school in the 80's. If today could be like it was then, this world would be much better off. So chill and lay off, huh?

@gregoryclemen1870

3y↑3

YUP!!!!, that was the year that I was born, I would not trade this music for anything. todays music is total garbage!!!!!

@ManuelDiaz-on7tg

3w↑1

I was watching this episode just last week… great show

@user-ze5yx8gp9u

42w↑4

Her voice was as bright and beautiful as that of an angel in heaven.
This is my first time hearing her song.

@janetrichards1868

3y↑29

Such sweet, uncomplicated times!

@mr.blackhawk142

2y↑1

DAMMIT Janet! lol, I was just 9 when this song came out! There were SO MANY great hits in that time period, and it started to get UGLY in the late 60s when the DOPE went mainstream!I was NEVER a big Beatles fan, esp. when their songs started to get political and WEIRD!

@josephlanderos3225

3y↑22

the love in donna's misty eyes for her baby girl.

@bernardcorbett3941

3y↑2

... and the sudden realization that her little girl was now all grown up. Donna Reed's acting, in this scene, perfectly exemplified a Mother's pride and joy and sorrow that her daughter was no longer a child, nor even a teen, but now a fully grown woman.

@bobjlv

15w

79 years old now! Wow time flies!

@alanomara1856

3y↑10

Love this song, typical of the late 50's and early 60's. I was only 4 when this was a hit, but i remember The Donna Reed Show in the early to mid sixties, especially the opening scene each week when Donna's husband forgets to kiss her going out the door in the morning. Don't know why I remember this.

@williampaz2092

4y↑86

Why couldn’t we live in this world today...

@tintinquirit8732

3y↑8

Because satan

@yosemite735

3y↑5

Because of the 1965 immigration act? Because of WW2?

@zodiacbroadubull6781

3y↑1

@@yosemite735 finally someone thinking

@jillnewton9654

Because you can't go home again Thomas Wolfe.

@melissah287

3y↑8

Because it never existed. It had the same problems as every other generation, it was just all swept under the rug and hidden.

9 More Replies...

@lizdeleuil2169

3y↑4

Donna Reed was so beautiful.

@SingingPostman27

1y↑3

I grew up with music from the 1960's and adored and loved Shelley Fabares. Thank you so very much.

@chilopandachabeta4373

3y↑7

America had some real pretty women back in the day. Shelley and Donna are two of them . They will always will be; there in my heart too.

@shawnfranco1822

1y↑2

Shelley was the REAL angel in this song.

@anotherarmchairhistorian2831

2y↑3

I'm 38 and I just found out she really sang this. She's night have lip sinked for the show but the fact she actually sang this song shocked me

@davidtaylor2982

1y↑7

A True Classic !!! 👍🏻

@IreneMy

21w

one of my favourite actresses in the sixties! ..and still remaining so ...

@douglascrawford3896

2y↑1

wow ,donna was just as gorgeous !!!!!

@rogertaylor7546

4y↑80

I watched this in B&W many times and it's great to see it in colour. You've coloured it beautifully.

@pamzielinski5596

14w

My nephew’s name is Johnny Angell and I sing this to him whenever I see him.❤️

@markherron1407

1y↑2

Happy Birthday to Shelley Fabares Blessings and Hugs 💖💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕!

@murrayoickle2947

3y↑63

Beautiful song. Such a wholesome time compared to music young girls are exposed to in these "WAP" days.

@JohnDoe-gk7ok

3y↑7

Well it probably wasn’t so wholesome when Johnny Angel got her in the bedroom.

@calvinjackson8110

3y↑6

@@JohnDoe-gk7ok that's not what was meant in the comment. But your comment reflects why the world isn't where it was back then.

@TheTony70504

@@calvinjackson8110 Probably some young whippersnapper that's been brought up with all this chaos today🤣🤣🤣

@dakotareeves3939

1y↑2

A young Shelley Fabares is beautiful & also her performance of the 1962 song "Johnny Angel" from an episode of the Donna Reed Show. ❤ ❤

@themcadamsminute8494

1y↑9

My dad and I use to love playing this song on hunting trips. Who knows why lol! He passed this summer but hearing this song brings back memories!

@jorgstockly1629

2y↑2

So lovley in Color 👍 with Compliments from Switzerland Always TCB Greetings from Jörg 🤠 Stay Safe Merry Christmas 🌲 to all Fans of The Donna Reed Show Worldwide ❤️ ❤️ ❤️

@donaldkagel1952

50w

The year was 1962 , the Radio Station was WLOF Channel 95 in Orlando , Fla. and i was smitten . My first crush.

@brentkrude9917

3y↑25

Why can't we have music like this today?? Because we're immersed in a world of chaos. We need to reorganize our thoughts, and live in harmony and establish order in our messed up societies.

@zodiacbroadubull6781

3y↑2

The World wasnt the best place here either dont let the smiles fool you. Learn the HIstory

@hayleynadel6808

3y↑4

@@zodiacbroadubull6781 I beg to differ. Sure nothing's perfect but these times we're living in today have to be the most wretched in modern America. This world has gone completely mad! If only I had a time machine.

@zodiacbroadubull6781

3y↑2

@@hayleynadel6808 why? people in the 60s had hard times, we dont just leave if the world is mad. Live your times and enjoy your times

@tsgarage2382

@@zodiacbroadubull6781 You just don't get it bubble boy

@calvinjackson8110

3y↑2

It's not just chaos its UTTER FILTH! The so called music and sitcoms and videos and movies are trashy and filthy compared to the classics of the 1940s and 1950s and 60s.

2 More Replies...

@phylliswurm9473

Still know the words to this beautiful song. ❤

@geraldlinda6836

2y↑2

Met Shelly several times at the Donna Reed Festival.Paul Peterson was also there.Long time ago.I have her photo autographing the album Johnny Angel.

@sird2403

2y↑2

This music makes me feel real

@robertknowles2699

There’s a song by Jim Morrison & The Doors called ‘You Make Me Real’; also puts
the point very strong.

@marvintnesselhauf4520

3y↑12

how many of us saw shelley debut this song on the donna reed show,, way back when?

@baylinkdashyt

Ah... that's where this came from. Thanks.

@donaldmcneil2480

3y↑6

shelley was gorgeous

@jeanlittle970

36w

I remembered every word. Amazing I can’t remember what I had for breakfast lol

@calvinjackson8110

3y↑12

Donna Reed's look is unmistakably easy to interpret. "I cant believe it. This is my little girl growing up so fast. She's singing about a boy she is in love with. Where did the years go? How did this happen?"
I love her facial expression of shock, surprise and disbelief. She is overwhelmed at how her daughter seems so grown up.

@donaldgordon3991

Good show.l guess that song came out in 1963

@robertknowles2699

2y↑2

Balance in the production is captivating, I tear up almost from their Sincerity!

@paj2184

@@donaldgordon3991 Actually, it was March, 1962, I was in basic training at Lackland AFB, San Antonio and the local radio station, KONO, played it continually. 😀

@paj6488

4y↑34

Never tire of this gem. Takes me right back to basic trng., Lackland AFB, San Antonio, late March to the end of April, 1962. Thank you, Radio Station KONO, S.A. and YT.

@michaeljohnson1157

2y↑2

My Family sat in front of the TV, in Louisville, Kentucky and watched this episode ! Smitten with the Singing. Very Special song to Me. >I became a Guitarist for many years now. Michael W.Johnson Modesto, CA___

@jimsmith9301

Thank YOU FATHER for everything beautiful!! Amen!!

@marcusamspaugh1504

3y↑5

My mom & dad met for the 1st time when my mom was listening to this song (Nov '64). They married 22 June 1966. They passed away 6 weeks after their 54th anniversary (8 & 20 Aug 2020). My dad's name - John

@maggiediaz3351

2y↑1

Like it was meant to be for your parents to meet. ❤️👍 Beautiful.

@marcusamspaugh1504

2y↑1

In fact when she met him, she told her mom, I just met the man I'm going to marry

@marcusamspaugh1504

2y↑12

Now I sing this song to my wife (of course, I replace Johnny with Joann & pronouns are the opposite). We've been married for 33 years. I started singing this song to her since we started dating (Sept '87)

@sharonschwartz8245

4y↑11

My era. Best of times and did not realize it.

@johndonlon1611

22w↑1

Whoa! Does that make me feel old........but in a good way. I wonder how many cans of hair spray were needed in this video. Great song, great memories.

@kbobdonahue1966

4y↑26

This looks excellent in color. I see Shelley Fabares' beautiful brown eyes. That's one thing Shelley and I have in common, we both have brown eyes.

@mr.blackhawk142

2y↑4

@ Kelly, My ONE good eye is hazel! L0L

@TheTony70504

2y↑1

@Kelly..I also have Brown eyes, if u catch me on my good side🤣🤣🤣

@robertknowles2699

2y↑1

Contrast to Donna’s blue .

@WandaRMoore

3y↑4

This song 🎵 was playing when j was dating Johnny post ,he was in the navy at the time ,he was the only guy that i ever dated with blonde hair and blue eyes ,i think of him all the time we had a good time on the beach and playing putt putt I use to ding this song ,love it when it payed on his radio in his car ,

@WandaRMoore

I wish that we could go back in time and relive the best time of your life with a special someone ,that made you feel good about your self

@brucepacetti2044

How true Wanda. Thanks for sharing. I too was in navy in 60's

@Stella-ri5ex

3y↑2

wow Shelley was so so cute back then.

@williampaz2092

4y↑9

I read somewhere that Shelly Fabares always called Donna Reed “Mrs Reed.” Up until the very last time the spoke to each other.

@toddbob55

3y↑3

Wish i could go back to this time period and find a wife.

@lizdoyle7158

4y↑20

Nostalgia everytime WONDERFUL 🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈

@shawnfranco1822

1y↑1

Holy cannoli!! Damn, how awesome is this???

@daleamaral5195

1y↑1

I was born in '56, l remember this song and the Donna Reed show. Father Knows Best, My Three Sons, Leave it to Beaver. Fond memories of childhood.

@olivermorgan9528

3y↑18

Impressive work by the supporting vocal group. They must've been given a bigger credit for the success of this song .

@roseforyoubabe

3y↑7

Darlene Love and her group, the Blossoms, sang backup vocals on the track.[4] Fabares is quoted in The Billboard Book of Number One Singles by Fred Bronson as saying she was intimidated by Love's group and their "beautiful" voices and was terrified at the prospect of becoming a recording artist, as she did not consider herself a singer,[5] but was expected to sing on the show anyway.[6] The song also featured an echo chamber, where the intro of the repeated title words: "Johnny Angel, Johnny Angel" was used by Fabares and the backup singers. Musicians who played on the track include Hal Blaine on drums, Carol Kaye on bass and Glen Campbell on guitar.[

@olivermorgan9528

3y↑2

@@roseforyoubabe I read that same extract in Wikipedia. I wanted to know if there was any reference about who this vocal group was.

@carriesutton6482

16w

My mom sang this when I was little. ❤ Now I'm Crushing on a Jonnie. 😂

@KChiefs12

3y↑12

I want to go to those days!!! My favorite tv show as a kid.

@mr.blackhawk142

@KChiefs, a 'kid'? U must be an old GOAT by now then? :P

@robertglare9019

3y↑13

Prefer the softer original b&w actually, I was three when this song hit the radio, yet years later, getting ready for school in front of the old wood oven, the nostalgic memories linger, thanks for the memories.

@waynehecktus7460

Memories of roller skating at Bingeman Park in Kitchener 50 years ago...😊

@mikeherrera1275

3y↑2

Ohhh my God crying 😢 😭 my self to sleep 💤

@johnnygucci9

3y↑9

19 years ago I talked a girl out of committing suicide via a yahoo chat room. Never heard this song until she thanked me and dedicated this song to me. Every time I hear it, I think of her and hope she’s still ok 🙏

@baylinkdashyt

I gotta ask, cause it's my beat: Was that ... a Long Distance Dedication?

@johnnygucci9

@@baylinkdashyt I guess so. Don’t know where she was located in the world or who she was. All I know is that she was in a yahoo chat room and I’m sure looking for help and I thank God I was there to help her

@oldtimer794

1y↑2

@@johnnygucci9 Well done.

@johnnygucci9

@@oldtimer794 thanks 🙏

@williammccrary1881

2y↑2

Long live the ''Oldies but Goodies"

@paulwalsh3594

3y↑11

1963 instantly my aunties living room New Zealand sunshine filling the house with light..6 years old now 63 were did it go

@calvinjackson8110

3y↑1

When you figure it out, drop me a line and explain it. I remember SEEING THIS THROUGH 9 YEAR OLD EYES as it aired on tv back then. Now I am 69 years old. My question too: WHERE DID IT GO???

@eandsm4620

4y↑14

This is one of the first songs that I ever heard on radio. We were living in Chicago and this song got a lot of airplay on station WLS.

@scottsdaleglenn

3y↑2

Chicago! My hometown!

@roseforyoubabe

3y↑56

@wendyklostermann2654

3y↑6

Thank you for the back story, not surprised by Glen Campbell play guitar

@stanleydavis7904

3y↑4

Some of the recking crew wow

@Sticks-of-TNT-tf1tn

2y↑5

Thanks for the back story. I love those kind of details. The “wrecking crew” studio musicians were incredible and played on so many of the top records of that era.

I understand the Blossoms were the artists who recorded another #1 record from 1962, “He’s A Rebel” that was actually credited to ‘The Crystals’ because of some mix-up. “He’s A Rebel” (which topped the weekly charts in November but didn’t make the yearly Billboard Hot 100 for 1962) yet according to Wikipedia it “ranked No. 263 on Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. Ranked No. 31 on Billboard’s list of 100 Greatest Girl Group Songs of All Time.” So the Blossoms were pretty awesome backup singers for Shelley Fabares.

I think those details are an indication of just how good the artists (including the studio musicians) were during those years.🧨

@mr.blackhawk142

2y↑1

@@Sticks-of-TNT-tf1tn Yup, The 'backup' singers and echo thangy MAKE the song! Shelley"s voice is not strong at all. Just sayin'.

@Sticks-of-TNT-tf1tn

@@mr.blackhawk142 🧨

7 More Replies...

@accordingtoantoinette5658

4y↑10

I feel fuzzy every time 🥰

@groovymovie84

3y↑5

This clip is the perfect example of what "Make America Great Again" is about. We need class and the "swell" lifestyle back.

@charmainehilyard7715

3y↑5

Great oldie. Brings back memories.

@mikeherrera1275

3y↑3

Omg 😲 😱 great song classic cutie

@richardcrew417

1y↑1

She is very beautiful

@wonderfuloldiesmusic

This is her now....https://www.rottentomatoes.com/celebrity/shelley_fabares

@derwissenskiosk8041

4y↑5

The colours let her teers of joy shine, its so wonderful to have those pictures of past times

@calvinjackson8110

22w↑1

Man! James Stacey was quite handsome here and when he played on som westerns a few later he matured into quite a ladies man. He had lovely young women by the gallon!

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