Dean Martin was an American singer, actor and comedian. One of the most popular entertainers of the mid-20th century, he was nicknamed "The King of Cool". Martin gained his career breakthrough together with comedian Jerry Lewis, billed as Martin and Lewis, in 1946. They performed in nightclubs and later had numerous appearances on radio and television and in films.
Following an acrimonious ending of the partnership in 1956, Martin pursued a solo career as a performer and actor. He established himself as a singer, recording numerous contemporary songs as well as standards from the Great American Songbook. Martin became one of the most popular acts in Las Vegas and was known for his friendship with fellow artists Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr., who together with several others formed the Rat Pack.
Starting in 1965, Martin was the host of the television variety program The Dean Martin Show, which centered on Martin's singing and comedic talents and was characterized by his relaxed, easy-going demeanor. From 1974 to 1984, Martin was roastmaster on the popular Dean Martin Celebrity Roast, which drew celebrities, comedians and politicians. Throughout his career, Martin performed in concert stages, nightclubs, audio recordings and appeared in 85 film and television productions and sold 12 million records in the US alone, over 50 million worldwide.
Martin's best known songs include "Ain't That a Kick in the Head?", "Memories Are Made of This", "That's Amore", "Everybody Loves Somebody", "You're Nobody till Somebody Loves You", "Sway", and "Volare".
Birth Name: Dino Paul Crocetti
Also Known As: Dino,Dino Martini,The King of Cool
Born: June 7, 1917 in Steubenville, Ohio, U.S.
Died: December 25, 1995 (at age of 78) in Beverly Hills, California, U.S.
Spouse(s): Betty McDonald (m. 1941; div. 1949)
Jeanne Biegger (m. 1949; div. 1973)
Catherine Hawn (m. 1973; div. 1976)
Children: 8, including Deana, Dean Paul, and Ricci
Genre(s):
Traditional pop,
country,
easy listening,
jazz,
swing
Instrument(s):
Vocals
Occupation(s):
Singer,
actor,
comedian
Active From: 1932-1995
Associated Acts:
Rat Pack