In this heartfelt reflection, Deana Martin, daughter of the legendary Dean Martin, opens up about her personal memories of growing up in the shadow of her famous father. With a mixture of nostalgia, humor, and gratitude, she recalls the impact Dean had on her life, not just as a father, but as a musical icon, and her own journey into music.
Growing Up with Dean Martin:
Deana reminisces about her early childhood, where she lived through a turbulent period following her parents’ divorce. The family faced financial difficulties, and after losing their home, they moved in with Dean Martin. This pivotal moment brought Deana and her siblings into a new family dynamic, and she humorously describes how her father, once a charming bachelor, became a family man when he married Jeanie (whom she refers to as Mom), with whom he had three children. Suddenly, Deana and her siblings found themselves part of a much larger family, akin to The Brady Bunch, living under one roof.
The Rat Pack and Famous Friends:
Growing up surrounded by musical giants, Deana fondly recalls her experiences with The Rat Pack, particularly her interactions with Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr.. She tells of her memories of watching them perform live, with her father Dean Martin captivating the crowd at places like the Copa Room at the Sands Hotel. Her vivid memories include watching her father’s relaxed, effortless stage presence, as he would stroll out in a tuxedo, drink in hand, and charm the audience. She also speaks of the camaraderie between the Rat Pack members, who, despite their fame, remained close friends and always supported one another.
Advice from the Legends:
Deana also shares invaluable advice that she received from her musical mentors. She recounts a conversation with Frank Sinatra about singing, where he explained that good singing came from taking a deep breath and pushing from the diaphragm. Sinatra also gave her a precious piece of advice: “Don’t sound like everyone else in the choir.” Dean Martin, on the other hand, was a natural—he could sing a piece of music perfectly after hearing it only once, while Sinatra worked diligently on every note. The difference between the two men’s approach to music shaped Deana’s own understanding of her father’s talent.
Deana’s Musical Journey:
Deana’s path into music was almost destined, with her first recording contract at just 16 years old. She remembers the legal process required to sign her first contract, reflecting the seriousness with which her career was approached, despite her youth. She even mentions her first hit, “Girl of the Month Club,” a country song written with Lee Hazelwood. However, it wasn’t until after her father’s passing in 1995 that Deana revisited The Great American Songbook, the genre her father had made iconic. Listening to her father’s voice again brought her back to the music she loved and inspired her to pursue this musical genre more seriously.
A Tribute to Family and Legacy:
Deana also touches upon her pride in being an Italian-American and her work with organizations like NIAF (National Italian American Foundation). She expresses deep pride in her cultural heritage and the contributions Italians have made to American music and culture. She is actively involved in celebrating her father’s legacy, contributing to a documentary about Dean Martin that woucentennial in 2017. Deana’s dedication to preserving her father’s legacy continues with her involvement in book projects, concerts, and events that pay tribute to Dean Martin’s incredible impact on the entertainment industry.
Reflections on Family, Friendship, and Music:
Throughout the conversation, Deana Martin emphasizes the importance of family, friendship, and the joy of music in her life. She remembers Jerry Lewis, with whom her father formed the comedy duo Martin and Lewis, fondly. She recalls how Jerry, always a dear friend, was supportive throughout her career, writing the foreword to her book and helping her with her projects. These personal connections, along with her father’s influence, have shaped Deana into the artist she is today.
The conversation wraps up with Deana expressing excitement for future projects, including the upcoming Centennial celebration for her father and the ongoing documentary about his life. Through her reflections, Deana Martin continues to honor her father’s legacy, ensuring that Dean Martin’s timeless music and influence are remembered for generations to come.
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