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Died On This Date (October 13, 2009) Al Martino / Johnny Fontaine in “The Godfather”

themusicsover October 13, 2009 No Comments

Al Martino (Born Alfred Cini)
October 7, 1927 – October 13, 2009

Al Martino was a Philadelphia bricklayer before leaving the family masonry business to follow his passion as a singer and actor.  He went on to become one of America’s most beloved Italian American crooners.  He is perhaps best remembered for his portrayal of Johnny Fontaine, the connected lounge singer in The Godfather.  Some believe that character was based on Frank Sinatra.  With the encouragement of childhood friend, Mario Lanza, Martino began singing in local clubs which eventually lead him to compete on Arthur Godfrey’s Talent Scouts television program.  He won first prize and soon landed a recording contract.  Over the course of his career, Martino released several hit records including 1952’s “Here In My Heart” which became the first single by an American performer to land at the top spot of the UK singles charts.  His biggest hit however, was 1965’s “Spanish Eyes.”  In all, he had eleven Top 40 singles in the U.S.  In 1972, he played Johnny Fontaine, one of the most memorable characters in the classic film, The Godfather.  He reprised the role in the two sequels and sang the theme song as well.  Eerily mirroring the life of Johnny Fontaine, Martino’s recording contract was reportedly bought out by mobsters who later beat him when he tried to terminate it.  The situation caused him to move to England for several years.  Al Martino died unexpectedly in his Pennsylvania home.  He was 82 years old.

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