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This Dean Martin Hit Single From 1964 Was Actually Written for Frank Sinatra Instead
Dean Martin's 1964 chart-topper "Everybody Loves Somebody" was not originally written with him in mind, but for Frank Sinatra, who had recorded a version of it back in 1948. Written by Irving Taylor, Ken Lane and Sam Coslow, the song went on to become Martin's first major hit since "Volare" in 1958, reviving his career and cementing the track's place as one of his signature recordings.
The song's success was notable for knocking The Beatles' "A Hard Day's Night" off the top of the charts, an achievement Martin reportedly teased Elvis Presley for failing to match, sending him a telegram offering to "handle" the Beatles for him. Presley later performed a cover of the song at a show Martin attended. "Everybody Loves Somebody" went on to feature in films including The Last Days of Disco and Reckless, as well as TV shows such as Friends and The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.
In short
- "Everybody Loves Somebody" was written for Sinatra, not Martin
- Martin's 1964 version topped charts, ousting The Beatles at No. 1
- Song later featured in Friends, Fresh Prince and other shows/films
Explained simply
Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra were American singers who became prominent in the mid-20th century, performing both pop standards and songs associated with the swing era. “Everybody Loves Somebody” was written by Irving Taylor, Ken Lane and Sam Coslow, and Sinatra recorded it in 1948.
Martin’s 1964 recording came during a period when his earlier hit “Volare” was several years behind him. Its success helped renew attention on his music, while its later use in films and television introduced it to new audiences.
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