Dean Martin – That’s Amore

About the song

“That’s Amore” is a timeless classic that embodies the essence of love and romance, deeply embedded in both popular culture and music history. Penned by composer Harry Warren and lyricist Jack Brooks in 1953, this enchanting song swiftly became synonymous with the smooth, charismatic voice of Dean Martin, who first popularized it upon its release.

The song debuted in the Martin and Lewis comedy film “The Caddy,” marking a pivotal moment in its journey to fame. According to Jerry Lewis, who played a crucial role in its inception, the song was crafted specifically for Martin, with Lewis personally investing in its potential success. Indeed, “That’s Amore” quickly proved to be a hit, capturing hearts with its infectious melody and evocative lyrics.

Over the decades, the song has maintained its cultural relevance, appearing in notable films such as “Rear Window,” “Moonstruck,” “Grumpier Old Men,” and more recently, “The Garfield Movie” and “Stuart Little.” Its enduring popularity extends beyond cinema, with references in video games and its use as a thematic touchstone in various retrospectives and biographies dedicated to Dean Martin himself.

Critically acclaimed for its charm and playful parody of Neapolitan music, “That’s Amore” stands as a testament to Italy’s allure and romantic mystique, countering the darker historical backdrop of mid-20th-century fascism. Its upbeat tempo and lyrical whimsy, encapsulated in Martin’s rendition recorded at Capitol Records’ studios in Hollywood, California, resonated deeply with audiences, propelling it to No. 2 on the Billboard charts in 1953.

Music critic Joe Queenan aptly describes the song as a celebration of Italy’s festive spirit and romanticism, revitalizing the nation’s cultural image during a period marked by political upheaval. Its legacy endures through various adaptations and covers, yet it remains inseparable from the velvet tones of Dean Martin, forever etching “That’s Amore” into the annals of musical history.

In conclusion, “That’s Amore” transcends its origins as a movie soundtrack to become a timeless emblem of love and joy, enriched by Dean Martin’s charismatic delivery and the enduring craftsmanship of Warren and Brooks. Its ability to evoke smiles and serenade hearts continues to enchant listeners, ensuring its place as a beloved classic for generations to come.

Video

Lyrics

(In Napoli where love is king
When boy meets girl here’s what they say)

When the moon hits your eye like a big pizza pie
That’s amore
When the world seems to shine like you’ve had too much wine
That’s amore
Bells will ring ting-a-ling-a-ling, ting-a-ling-a-ling
And you’ll sing “Vita bella”
Hearts will play tippy-tippy-tay, tippy-tippy-tay
Like a gay tarantella

When the stars make you drool just like a pasta e fasule
That’s amore
When you dance down the street with a cloud at your feet
You’re in love
When you walk in a dream but you know you’re not dreaming, signore
Scusa mi, but you see, back in old Napoli
That’s amore

When the moon hits your eye like a big pizza pie
That’s amore (That’s amore)
When the world seems to shine like you’ve had too much wine
That’s amore (That’s amore)
Bells will ring ting-a-ling-a-ling, ting-a-ling-a-ling
And you’ll sing “Vita bella” (Vita bell—Vita bella)
Hearts will play tippy-tippy-tay, tippy-tippy-tay
Like a gay tarantella (lucky fella)

When the stars make you drool just like a pasta e fasule
That’s amore (That’s amore)
When you dance down the street with a cloud at your feet
You’re in love
When you walk in a dream but you know you’re not dreaming, signore
Scusa mi, but you see, back in old Napoli
That’s amore (amore)
That’s amore