"Johnny Can't Read" is the first solo single released by American rock singer Don Henley, included on his debut solo studio album I Can't Stand Still (1982).

His then partner, former actress Maren Jensen, performs backing vocals.

[citation needed] The song focuses upon reading illiteracy.

As I grew, she made sure that there was always reading material in the house that was suited to my age and ability."

Cashbox called it "a wry rockin’ romp about the woefully inadequate education most kids receive, [that] doesn’t point the guitar at anyone in particular but considers the possible results of a frustrating situation.