Johnny (Shooting Star by Bad Company)

"Don't cry Mama. Smile and wave goodbye."

- Johnny to his Mama

Johnny is the hero in the song Shooting Star by Bad Company from their 1975 album Straight Shooter.

According to the song's writers, the creation of Johnny is inspired by real-life musicians who died early which includes Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, and Jim Morrison.

Heroic deeds
Johnny's first heroic deed is recognizing his musical talent and devoting his life to helping people through his music. According to the song's first verse, Johnny was only a schoolboy when he heard his first Beatles song "Love Me Do". Upon hearing the song, Johnny immediately gets his first guitar and practices endlessly to sharpen his musical skills. Eventually, Johnny becomes confident enough in his musical abilities that he becomes part of a rock and roll band.

Johnny's second heroic deed is comforting his mother before he leaves to spread his music throughout the world. According to the song's first verse, as Johnny is leaving home his mother approaches him one last time with a teardrop in her eye. Johnny sees how much his mother will miss him. They both know that Johnny will eventually have to leave home and live his own life. Before Johnny finally departs, he and his mom separate on good terms by smiling and waving goodbye.