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Dean Martin: The King of Cool

Christian Carter

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Published in Martini Man: The Life Of Dean Martin

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Early Life and Career

Dean Martin was born Dino Paul Crocetti on June 7, 1917, in Steubenville, Ohio. His parents were Italian immigrants, and Martin grew up in a poor but loving home. He began singing at an early age, and by the time he was a teenager, he was performing in local nightclubs.

Martini Man: The Life of Dean Martin

by William Schoell

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5839 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
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Print length	:	442 pages

In 1940, Martin met Jerry Lewis, and the two formed a comedy duo that would become one of the most successful in history. The duo's signature routine involved Martin playing the straight man to Lewis's manic antics. They starred in a series of popular films together, including My Friend Irma (1949),Artists and Models (1955),andHollywood or Bust (1956).

The Rat Pack Years

In the late 1950s, Martin joined forces with Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., Peter Lawford, and Joey Bishop to form the Rat Pack. The group of friends and entertainers became synonymous with the glamorous Las Vegas lifestyle of the era. They starred in a series of successful films together, including Ocean's 11 (1960),Sergeants 3 (1962),and Robin and the 7 Hoods (1964).

Martin's solo career also flourished during this time. He recorded a string of hit songs, including "That's Amore" (1953),"Volare" (1958),and "Everybody Loves Somebody" (1964). He also starred in a number of popular films, including Some Came Running (1958),Rio Bravo (1959),and The Sons of Katie Elder (1965).

Later Career and Legacy

Martin continued to perform and record throughout the 1970s and 1980s. He also starred in a number of television specials and variety shows. In 1987, he was awarded the Kennedy Center Honors for his lifetime of contributions to American culture.

Dean Martin died on December 25, 1995, at the age of 78. He is remembered as one of the most popular and iconic entertainers of the 20th century. His smooth vocals, charming personality, and signature martini made him a beloved figure in film, television, and music.

Dean Martin was a true original. He was a talented singer, actor, and comedian who brought joy to millions of people around the world. His legacy continues to live on through his music, films, and television appearances. He will always be remembered as the "Martini Man," the king of cool.

Martini Man: The Life of Dean Martin

by William Schoell

4.2 out of 5