About the song
Let’s dive into the infectious rhythm of Dean Martin’s “Mambo Italiano.” Picture yourself in a bustling Italian café, the aroma of espresso lingering in the air, as Martin’s velvety voice transports you to the heart of the Mediterranean.
Released in 1954, “Mambo Italiano” quickly became a sensation, capturing the vibrant energy of the mambo craze that swept across the music scene. The song, written by Bob Merrill, blends Italian and Latin influences seamlessly, creating a toe-tapping melody that’s impossible to resist.
Featured on Dean Martin’s album “Dean Martin Sings,” “Mambo Italiano” showcased Martin’s versatility as an entertainer. His effortless delivery and playful charm breathed new life into the catchy tune, earning it widespread acclaim.
Chart-wise, “Mambo Italiano” climbed to the number ten spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, solidifying its place as one of Martin’s most memorable hits. Its irresistible beat and catchy chorus made it a favorite on jukeboxes and radio stations alike, cementing its status as a classic.
Beyond its commercial success, “Mambo Italiano” remains a beloved favorite among fans of Martin’s music. Its spirited tempo and playful lyrics capture the essence of joy and celebration, transporting listeners to a world of lively dance halls and carefree evenings.
So, whether you’re a seasoned aficionado of Martin’s music or just discovering the magic of “Mambo Italiano” for the first time, let its infectious rhythm sweep you off your feet and into a whirlwind of excitement and romance. Join Dean Martin on a musical journey to Italy, where the mambo reigns supreme and the laughter never fades.
Video
Lyrics
A boy went back to Napoli
Because he missed the scenery
The native dances and the charming songs
But wait a minute, something’s wrong
‘Cause now it’s
Hey, mambo, mambo italiano
Hey, mambo, mambo italiano
Go, go, go you mixed up siciliano
All you calabresi do the mambo like a crazy with a-
Hey mambo, don’t wanna tarantella
Hey mambo, no more mozzarella
Hey, mambo, mambo italiano
Try an enchilada with the fishy baccalà and then a-
Hey cumpa’, I love a how you dance a rumba
But take a some advice, paesano
Learn-a how to mambo
If you gonna be a square
You ain’t-a gonna go nowhere
Hey, mambo, mambo italiano
Hey, mambo, mambo italiano
Go, go, Joe, shake like a Giovanno
Hello, che si dice, you getta happy in the feets-a
When you mambo italiano
Hey jadrool, you don’t-a have to go to school
Just make-a with the beat bambino
It’s a like a vino
Kid, you good-a lookin’ but you don’t a-know what’s cookin’ till you
Hey, mambo, mambo italiano
Hey, mambo, mambo italiano
Oh, oh, oh, you mixed up Siciliano
Hello, che si dice, you getta happy in the pizza
When you mambo italiano