Frankie and Johnnie

I am flooded with many, many happy childhood memories at Mama Carr’s house. There were always swarms of cousins, screams and laughter, heaps and heaps of good food, and “the Aunts” were everywhere.

Because there was no T.V., we children, entertained ourselves. Occasionally though, we had a special treat. Aunt Juanita would become a radio singer and captivate us with her performance of “Frankie and Johnnie”. She held us spellbound as she belted out in a loud raspy voice….”Frankie and Johnnie were lovers. Lawdy, how they could love. They were true to each other, as true as the sky above. She loved her man, but he was doin’ her wrong.” The song went on and on and Aunt Juanita performed it with all the drama needed to make us feel the story was true. I was spellbound each time she performed and would silently think, “Oh, I wish I could sing and act like that. “

The years have passed, but even now I can close my eyes and hear her belting out that song. And, yes, even now this 50+++++ year old niece will stand in front of my mirror ALONE and mimic her performance. And for a moment, I hear the applause and screams for both of us as we sing “Frankie and Johnnie”.

Thank you, Aunt Juanita