Dean Martin

Dean Martin was born as Dino Paul Crocetti on June 7, 1917, in Steubenville, Ohio. He was the son of Italian-American parents and grew up speaking Italian in an Italian-American neighborhood. Martin's upbringing was modest, and he did not speak English until he started school at the age of 5. He dropped out of high school in his sophomore year because, as he claimed, he thought he was smarter than his teachers. Dean eventually found his way into the entertainment business, which led to a remarkable career in music, film, and television, becoming one of the most enduring and beloved entertainers of his time.

The famous comedy duo of Martin and Lewis made their debut on July 25, 1946, at the 500 Club in Atlantic City. Dean Martin served as the smooth, crooning straight man, while Jerry Lewis was the zany, unpredictable comic. The duo quickly became a hit, gaining a massive following with their unique blend of music and comedy. They went on to achieve widespread fame through live performances, radio, television appearances, and an impressive series of successful films, greatly influencing the comedy landscape of the time.

Dean Martin starred in 'The Caddy', which was released on April 14, 1954. This film was one of the pair's most successful comedies during their partnership with Jerry Lewis. The movie showcases Martin as a charming golfer who becomes a professional when his comedic partner, played by Lewis, experiences stage fright. The chemistry between Martin and Lewis shines in this movie, leading to its classic status among fans. It includes the song 'That's Amore,' sung by Martin, which became one of his biggest hits.

On November 12, 1956, 'The Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis Show' was broadcast, marking a highlight in the duo's television collaboration. The special was a major success and showcased the perfect harmony of Dean's laid-back charm and Jerry's energetic comedy. Their television work was a key part of their joint career, reaching millions of homes and building their fame beyond live performances and films. The chemistry and humor displayed in this show contributed greatly to their status as an iconic comedy duo of the 50s.

Dean Martin released the song 'Volare' on June 28, 1958. This single became one of Dean Martin's signature songs and was a massive hit, reaching number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song is an American-English interpretation of the Italian song 'Nel blu dipinto di blu', originally performed by Domenico Modugno. Martin's version exudes his smooth and charismatic style, becoming a staple in his performances and recordings, and contributing to his lasting legacy as an iconic crooner. It remains popular among fans of classic pop and lounge music to this day.

Released on June 4, 1964, 'Robin and the 7 Hoods' stars Rat Pack members Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra, and Sammy Davis Jr. The film is a musical comedy loosely based on the Robin Hood legend, transposed to 1920s Chicago. Martin's performance added to the film's charm, which was further enriched by a memorable soundtrack, including Martin's version of 'Any Man Who Loves His Mother'. The film is significant for its ensemble cast and remains a classic example of the Rat Pack's cultural impact during that era.

Dean Martin released 'Everybody Loves Somebody' on April 17, 1965, which instantly became a huge hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This song also knocked The Beatles off the top of the charts, a rather significant achievement that showcased Martin's continued influence in the music industry. The song encapsulated Martin's smooth vocal style and became a defining piece of his music repertoire, embodying the crooning charm that he was known for, and is still associated with his music legacy today.

The television variety show 'The Dean Martin Show' premiered on September 16, 1965, on NBC. The show was a major hit and showcased Martin's talent as a singer, comedian, and host. Each episode featured a stellar lineup of guest stars, a variety of musical performances, comedy sketches, and the famous 'Celebrity Roasts'. Dean Martin's relaxed, easy-going style became a hallmark of the show, endearing him to millions of viewers. The show's success cemented Martin's place as a major entertainer in television history.

The 'Dean Martin Celebrity Roast' segment debuted on September 14, 1973. This part of 'The Dean Martin Show' became so popular that it was spun off into its own series. Each episode featured a celebrity 'roastee' who would be humorously teased and honored by their peers. The roasts became a beloved entertainment form, known for their sharp wit and affectionate humor. The format was innovative and highlighted Dean Martin's ability to bring out laughter and good spirits from both participants and audiences.

Dean Martin passed away on December 25, 1995, in Beverly Hills, California, at the age of 78. His death marked the end of an era, as Martin was one of the last surviving members of the legendary Rat Pack. Dean Martin's career spanned several decades and left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry as a singer, actor, and comedian. His relaxed, charming style and his contributions to music, film, and television, as well as his impact on pop culture, are still felt and remembered fondly by fans around the world.