Who's Johnny by El Debarge lyrics and music video. You can sing while listening to the song Who's Johnny performed by El Debarge. Hope you like the music video and song lyrics for Who's Johnny.

About the Song

"Who's Johnny" by El DeBarge is a playful and upbeat pop track that became a defining moment in the solo career of the former DeBarge frontman. Released in 1986, it was featured as the theme song for the movie Short Circuit, a popular sci-fi comedy about a sentient robot named Johnny Five. The song's infectious energy, catchy melody, and El DeBarge's charismatic delivery made it a commercial success, reaching #3 on the Billboard Hot 100.


Key Details:

  • Release Date: May 1986
  • Album: El DeBarge (self-titled debut solo album)
  • Writers: Peter Wolf, Ina Wolf
  • Producer: Peter Wolf
  • Genre: Pop, R&B

Themes and Meaning:

  • Quirky Love Story: The lyrics revolve around a mysterious "Johnny," blending playful romance with a hint of sci-fi humor tied to the movie’s plot.

  • Lighthearted Fun: The song's cheerful tone and whimsical lyrics reflect the comedic and feel-good vibe of the Short Circuit movie.


Lyrics Overview:

The chorus playfully repeats:

  • "Who's Johnny? She said, and smiled in her special way."

The lyrics are catchy and easy to sing along with, adding to the song’s charm and mass appeal.


Musical Style:

  • Pop-R&B Fusion: The track combines upbeat pop melodies with El DeBarge’s soulful vocal style, creating a sound that bridges mainstream appeal and R&B roots.

  • Funky Grooves: Featuring a danceable rhythm and bright instrumentation, the song is a quintessential 80s feel-good track.


Commercial Success:

  • Chart Performance:
    • Peaked at #3 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S.
    • Reached #1 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart.
    • Gained popularity internationally, solidifying El DeBarge’s solo career.

Legacy and Reception:

  • Critical Acclaim: While seen as a fun and somewhat novelty song, it was praised for its infectious rhythm and El DeBarge’s engaging vocal performance.

  • Fan Favorite: The song remains one of El DeBarge’s most iconic hits and is often associated with 80s nostalgia.


Cultural Impact:

  • Connection to Short Circuit: The song’s inclusion in the film and its music video featuring Johnny Five helped it gain widespread recognition.

  • Defining Solo Hit: As El DeBarge’s first big hit after leaving the family band DeBarge, "Who’s Johnny" helped establish him as a solo artist.


Fun Facts:

  • Music Video: The video features Johnny Five from Short Circuit alongside El DeBarge, blending elements of the movie’s storyline with a whimsical performance.

  • El DeBarge’s Reluctance: DeBarge has mentioned that he initially wasn’t a fan of the song but came to appreciate its impact on his career.


In Summary:

"Who’s Johnny" by El DeBarge is a lively and memorable track that captures the playful spirit of 80s pop. Released in 1986, it became a major hit and a defining song for both the movie Short Circuit and El DeBarge’s solo career. With its catchy melody, quirky lyrics, and feel-good energy, "Who’s Johnny" remains a beloved classic of 80s music and pop culture.

El Debarge: Who's Johnny Lyrics

There she goes and knows I’m dying when she says: Who is johnny?
Games with names that girl is playing, all she says is: Who is johnny?
I tried to understand because I’m people too
And playing games is part of human nature
My heart’s in overdrive, it’s great to be alive

Who’s johnny? She said and smiled in her special way
Johnny, she said, you know I love you
Who’s johnny? She said and tried to look the other way
Her eyes gave her away
Alright, oh, yeah

She makes sure I see her teasing, hear her say: Who is johnny?
There’s no way today is easy, hear her say: Who is johnny?
I really couldn’t help but fall in love with her
Her being there has made my life worth living
I knew it from the start, that I would lose my heart

Who’s johnny? She said and smiled in her special way
Johnny, she said, you know I love you
Who’s johnny? She said and tried to look the other way
Still pretending

Who’s johnny?
Who’s johnny?
Wow-oooh, oh no
Who’s johnny?
Who’s johnny?
Oh no-no-no-no, I don’t believe it
Who’s johnny? She said and tried to look the other way
Her eyes gave her away

(Girls like her) are very special girls
(Girls like her) don’t rest
Till’till you too are a believer
Till you too have caught their fever

Who-who-who
Who is johnny?
There she goes and knows I’m dying when she says
Who is-who-who is? Who’s johnny? She said and smiled in her special way
Johnny, she says, you know I love you
Who’s johnny? She says and tried to look the other way
Her eyes gave her away

Who’s johnny?
Who’s johnny?
Who’s johnny?

Who’s johnny?
Who’s johnny?
Who’s johnny?

Who’s johnny?
Who’s johnny?
Who’s johnny?
That girl’s pretending she can’t remember my name
Who’s johnny?
Who’s johnny?
Oh, I can’t believe it

Who’s johnny?
Who’s johnny?
I know this girl is only teasing
Who’s johnny?
She said, she walked at me with someone else
And left me standing there, ooo-oooh
Who’s johnny?
Who’s johnny?
Who’s johnny?

Who’s johnny?
Who’s johnny?
Who’s johnny?
It isn’t love

Who’s johnny?
Who’s johnny?
Who’s johnny?
Johnny come with me
Who’s johnny?
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