It was written by Eric Bazilian, Rick Chertoff and Rob Hyman.

"Johnny B" was released as a single in 1987 by Columbia Records, and reached #61 on Billboard Hot 100 list.

[1] An accompanying music video was also released, directed by David Fincher.

Cash Box said that it "is filled with musical textures that enhance the narrative and range from Old World quaintness to gritty guitar-based rock.

Czech rock band Tlustá Berta also recorded another version of this song with title "Prázdnej byt" and Nanovor with title "Už nezavolá" Another cover was released in August 2019 by German Folk Metal Band Equilibrium, on their Album Renegades.