Johnny Reggae
"Johnny Reggae" is a 1971 novelty song[1] credited to The Piglets. The single cover states that it was "conceived, created, produced and directed by Jonathan King".[2] It was released on Bell Records.
| "Johnny Reggae" | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Released | 1971 | |||
| Format | 45 rpm | |||
| Recorded | 1971 | |||
| Genre | Reggae | |||
| Label | Bell Records | |||
| Songwriter(s) | Jonathan King | |||
| Producer(s) | Jonathan King | |||
| ||||
| "Johnny Reggae" on YouTube | ||||
The credits for the main female vocals are unclear. They were attributed at various times to various artists, most frequently to the actress Adrienne Posta and at times to Wendy Richard and to Kay Barry;[1] some claim that the vocalists were trained (anonymous) session singers coached to sound like teenage girls. King himself in his autobiography 65 My Life So Far says it was, indeed, session singers with the lead vocal performed by Barbara Kay, then in her 40s.
Track list
- Side A: "Johnny Reggae"
- Side B: Backing track (of the song)
Chart positions
| Chart (1971) | Peak position |
|---|---|
| UK Singles Chart | 3 |
Covers and adaptations
In 1972, The Roosevelt Singers adapted the song adding new lyrics and music although relying mainly on the theme and music of the original. Titled "Heavy Reggae (Johnny Reggae)" it was Side A of a release on Sioux Records, with Side B being "Smoking Wild" by The Hong Gang.[3]