Johnny Preston: The Rock and Roll Storyteller

Johnny Preston was an American rock and roll singer best known for his 1960 chart-topping hit "Running Bear." Hailing from Port Arthur, Texas, his career was defined by this single massive success, which sold over one million copies and reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100.

Early career

Born John Preston Courville in 1939, he began performing while still in high school. His early musical pursuits led to a fateful meeting with the pioneering rock and roll artist J.P. "The Big Bopper" Richardson, who became his mentor and songwriter.

Breakthrough

Preston's breakthrough came in 1959 with the release of "Running Bear," a song written by Richardson. Produced by Mercury Records, the track utilized vocal sound effects to create its narrative of a Native American love story, capturing the era's novelty song trend. It soared to number one in early 1960, earning a gold certification.

Key tracks

Running Bear - This was Preston's signature hit, a number one single that defined his career with its distinctive "Indian" chant and tragic storyline.

Cradle of Love - Released in 1960, this follow-up single also written by the Big Bopper reached the Top 10, proving his initial success was not a complete fluke.

Feel So Fine - Another of his early 1960s releases that managed to chart, showcasing his energetic rock and roll style.

His later recordings, including "Leave My Kitten Alone" and "Charming Billy," failed to replicate the phenomenal success of "Running Bear." Preston continued to tour and perform his classic hit on the oldies circuit for decades until his passing in 2011.

Fans of Johnny Preston's brand of narrative-driven 1950s rock and roll might also enjoy the music of Buddy Holly, who was a contemporary from the same Texas music scene. The novelty story-song style connects him to Sheb Wooley, known for "The Purple People Eater." For the pure early rock and roll sound, listen to Bill Haley and his Comets. The direct influence of his mentor is evident in the work of The Big Bopper himself, J.P. Richardson.

Johnny Preston's music remains a staple on classic rock and roll and oldies radio formats, where "Running Bear" is a frequent and beloved playlist addition.

The music of Johnny Preston can be heard on radio stations featured on our website, allowing listeners to discover this classic rock and roll artist through our available streams.