His single "Here in My Heart" was number one in the first UK Singles Chart, published by the New Musical Express in 1952, putting him into the Guinness Book of World Records. The song stayed there for nine weeks. Al Martino has stated that Mario Lanza dropped his plans to record this song after he called Lanza in Los Angeles and explained that his own recording would be neglected if he did so.
One of the most successful Martino hits was "Spanish Eyes", achieving several gold and platinum discs for sales. Recorded in 1965, the song reached number 5 on the UK Singles Chart when re-issued in 1973. Even today, this classic by composer Bert Kaempfert (his original title for the song was "Moon Over Naples") is among the 50 most-played songs worldwide. Another hit was "Volare", (also known as "Nel blu, Dipinto di Blu"). In 1976, it reached number one on the Italian and Flemish charts, and was in the Top Ten in Spain, The Netherlands and France, as well as in many other European countries.
In the U.S., Martino had eleven top 40 hits in the Billboard pop singles chart in the 1960s and 1970s, with 1963's "I Love You Because" (#3) and 1964's "I Love You More and More Every Day" (#9) both reaching the Top Ten. He also sang the title song for the film, "Hush, Hush, Sweet Charlotte" (1964), and is credited in the end titles of the film.
Apart from singing, Martino played the role of Johnny Fontane in the 1972 film The Godfather, as well as singing the film's theme, "Speak Softly Love". He played the same role in The Godfather Part III and The Godfather Trilogy: 1901-1980. He recently returned to acting, playing aging crooner Sal Stevens in the short film "Cutout", appearing in film festivals around the world in 2006.
When an artist is able to combine several important elements -- numerous international hit records, personal charisma, and a unique vocal style -- it inevitably leads to success. Known for such hits as "Spanish Eyes" and "Can't Help Falling in Love" in the 60's, Al Martino was in the midst of beginning his second career, which had already taken off with great momentum in the European market. Since the fall of 1993, Al Martino's songs had flooded the radio and television airwaves in Germany, and he consistently had sold-out concerts throughout the continent.
He continued to play to audiences in his later years around venues in the USA. Sadly he died on the 14th October 2009.
Three Little Words
Al Martino Lyrics
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To hear those Three Little Words, That's all I'd live
For the rest of my days;
And what I feel in my heart, they tell sincerely,
No other words can tell it half so clearly,
Three Little Words, eight little letters,
Which simply mean "I Love You"!
"Three Little Words" is a romantic song that expresses the desire for the phrase "I love you" to be spoken. The lyrics suggest that the singer is so in love that they long to hear those three words, and that they would be content to live for the rest of their life if those words were spoken to them. The singer professes that those words express their true and sincere feelings to their beloved.
The phrase "Three Little Words" is used as a metaphor in the song to express the immense power of the simple phrase "I love you". The singer believes that no other words can express their feelings as clearly as this three-word sentence. The phrase is highlighted by the singer's emphasis on the fact that they are made of just eight letters.
The lyrics of "Three Little Words" are simple, yet powerful in expressing the emotions of love. The song is a classic romantic ballad that has won the hearts of many for its beautiful portrayal of love. The song's nostalgic nature and its expression of overwhelming love have made it a popular choice for weddings and romantic occasions.
Line by Line Meaning
Three Little Words, oh what I'd give for that wonderful phrase
I long for the expression of love encapsulated in these three small words, and I would give anything for that kind of affectionate acknowledgement.
To hear those Three Little Words, That's all I'd live
If I could only hear those intimate Three Little Words, I would feel as though I have lived a wholly fulfilling life.
For the rest of my days;
The love conveyed in those Three Little Words would serve as the sole source of happiness for the rest of my life.
And what I feel in my heart, they tell sincerely,
These words truly represent the depth of emotion I hold in my heart and are a sincere representation of my love.
No other words can tell it half so clearly,
The depth of my affection for you cannot be expressed as accurately or poignantly through any other words except for these Three Little Words.
Three Little Words, eight little letters,
This powerful sentiment can be represented by only three words and eight letters.
Which simply mean "I Love You"!
These Three Little Words encapsulate the most beautiful and profound declaration of love; they simply mean "I Love You".
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Bert Kalmar, Harry Ruby
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind