Today’s video of the day is Men At Work – “Be Good Johnny” released in 1982.
Men at Work released Be Good Johnny in April 1982 as the third single from Business as Usual. The Australian band blended rock with new wave, creating a sound that stood out in the early ’80s. The song tells the story of a 9-year-old boy named Johnny. He struggles with adult expectations, preferring to daydream rather than follow rules. Colin Hay shifts his voice to represent Johnny, his parents, and his teacher. Keyboardist Greg Ham adds spoken dialogue, trying to understand Johnny’s thoughts. The title references Chuck Berry’s classic Johnny B. Goode. Business as Usual was a massive success. It topped charts worldwide, including the U.S. and Australia. The album featured hits like Who Can It Be Now? and Down Under. These songs helped define Men at Work’s sound—quirky lyrics, catchy melodies, and a mix of reggae and rock.
The band’s next album, Cargo, continued their success with songs like Overkill and It’s a Mistake. However, their third album, Two Hearts, did not achieve the same impact. By 1986, the band had split. Colin Hay later recorded a solo version of Be Good Johnny for his album Man @ Work. This version became the theme for the U.S. reality show Supernanny. The video for Be Good Johnny captures the song’s playful yet frustrated tone. It features the band performing, mixed with scenes of a young boy lost in his imagination. The visuals highlight Johnny’s struggle between childhood freedom and adult expectations. Men at Work left a lasting mark on ’80s music. Their unique style and storytelling set them apart. Be Good Johnny remains a fan favorite, a song that many still relate to today.
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