Dean Martin – On an Evening in Roma

About the song

Released in 1959, “On an Evening in Roma” became one of the most beloved songs in Dean Martin’s illustrious career. Featured on his album “Dino: Italian Love Songs”, the track encapsulates the allure and romanticism of Italy, a country that had a deep personal significance to Martin. As a second-generation Italian-American, Martin often paid homage to his Italian roots throughout his career, and this particular song is a prime example of how he celebrated his heritage through music. With its lush orchestral arrangement, sweeping melody, and Martin’s velvety voice, the song remains a timeless tribute to the country’s cultural beauty and romantic atmosphere.

The song’s lyrics evoke a romantic evening in Rome, where the moonlight and ancient streets set the stage for a love story to unfold. It’s a perfect example of the type of lush, cinematic ballads that defined the pop music scene in the late 1950s and early 1960s. The story within the song is simple yet poignant: two lovers, basking in the glow of the Italian evening, with the timeless beauty of Rome as their backdrop. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a moonlit stroll, filled with the anticipation of a deep emotional connection, making it an ideal romantic anthem for those yearning for a little Italian magic.

Dean Martin’s delivery of the song is nothing short of enchanting. Known for his laid-back charm and smooth baritone voice, Martin’s performance on “On an Evening in Roma” has an effortless elegance to it. His voice wraps around the melody with a warmth that seems to transport listeners straight to the romantic streets of Rome. The orchestration, lush with strings and sweeping arrangements, complements Martin’s voice perfectly, creating a sound that’s both rich and timeless. His interpretation of the song is quintessentially Italian in its sophistication, yet remains universally appealing in its expression of love and longing.

The release of “On an Evening in Roma” came at a time when Dean Martin was at the height of his popularity, with his career spanning not only music but also film and television. As a member of the Rat Pack, alongside Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr., Martin had already established himself as a charismatic and versatile performer. However, his Italian-themed music—songs like “That’s Amore” and “Volare” included—introduced a different, more intimate side to his public persona. With “On an Evening in Roma”, Martin further solidified his image as the quintessential suave, charming, and romantic crooner, able to embody the essence of Italy’s rich musical tradition while putting his unique spin on it.

In terms of cultural impact, the song has continued to resonate through the years, especially among fans of Italian-American music and those who romanticize the idea of Italian culture. With its references to the beauty of Rome, its timeless melody, and Martin’s romantic delivery, “On an Evening in Roma” has become one of the definitive songs that represent the intersection of pop and Italian music. While it never reached the commercial heights of some of Martin’s other hits, its emotional depth and connection to Italy’s cultural legacy have made it a classic for fans of both Dean Martin and Italian-inspired music.

In conclusion, “On an Evening in Roma” is a quintessential example of Dean Martin’s ability to weave warmth, charm, and romance into his music. The track captures the essence of Italy’s timeless appeal, with a lush orchestral arrangement that evokes the romance of Rome at dusk, and a vocal performance from Martin that is as smooth and inviting as the city itself. Even more than just a song, it’s a reminder of the enduring power of music to evoke emotion and transport us to another time and place—a place where love blooms under the Italian moonlight.

Video

Lyrics

Come’ bella c’e la luna brilla e’ strette
Strette como e’ tutta bella a passeggiare
Sott’er celo de Roma

Down each Avenue or Via, Street or Strada
You can see ’em disappearing two by two
On an evening in Roma
Do they take ’em for espresso
Yeah, I guess so
On each lover’s arm a girl I wish I knew
On an evening in Roma

Though there’s grinning and mandolining in sunny Italy
The beginning has just begun when the sun goes down
So please meet me in the plaza near your casa
I am only one and that is one too few
On an evening in Roma
Don’t know what the country’s coming to
But in Rome do as the Romans do
Will you on an evening in Roma

Though there’s grinning and mandolining in sunny Italy
The beginning has just begun when the sun goes down

Come’ bella c’e la luna brille’ strette
Strette como e’ tutta bella a passeggiare
Sott’er celo de Roma
Don’t know what the country’s coming to
But in Rome do as the Romans do
Will you? On an evening in Roma
Sott’er celo de Roma
On an evening in Roma