This week a look at the career of Crooner/Actor/ Legend, Al Martino! After serving with the US Navy in World War II, Jasper, Cini began his singing career.[3]He adopted the stage name Al Martino, thanks to a suggestion from family friend Mario Lanza and began singing in local nightclubs. He moved to New York and started a recording Career in 1948, and in 1952 gained national attention performing on Arthur Godfrey’s talent Scouts TV show. He signed soon after with Capitol; Records and had numerous top 40 hits through the 1960’s In 1972 he won the part of Johnny Fontaine in the film “The Godfather” as well as singing the theme song. Strangely enough, there are tales told of a possible mob connection that led to him having that part, which at one time was taken from him and given to Vic Damone. But that’s another story 🙂
Martino remained active until his passing in 2009 at the age of 82. He has been inducted into the Hit Parade Hall of Fame.
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