In one of his most patriotic performances, Dean Martin teamed up with Kate Smith on ‘The Dean Martin Show’ to deliver a medley of American classics.
The performance featured a choir of singers and dancers dressed in red, white, and blue. Joining Dean and Kate were legendary stars Barbara Eden, Mickey Rooney, and Norm Crosby. While the three men wore tuxedos, Barbara Eden wore a pink dress, and Kate Smith was in a sequined red and black gown.
The performance began with Dean and Kate stepping into the spotlight to sing a lively rendition of ‘Yankee Doodle Dandy,’ setting a spirited, patriotic tone for the evening. Their voices blended effortlessly, capturing the energy and optimism of the classic tune. The stage lights glimmered against red, white, and blue decorations, while the orchestra played with gusto, reinforcing the celebratory atmosphere. As the final bars of the song rang out, the duo transitioned seamlessly into ‘My Old Kentucky Home,’ a more sentimental piece that brought a touch of nostalgia to the moment. Other cast members slowly joined in, their harmonies building as they filled the stage with warm, heartfelt vocals that echoed across the theater.
From there, the medley shifted into a rousing version of ‘You’re a Grand Old Flag,’ prompting a burst of applause from the audience. The stage came alive with singers and dancers in vibrant costumes, waving American flags and moving in choreographed patterns that evoked the spirit of a Fourth of July parade. The enthusiasm in the theater was palpable, with the audience clapping along and cheering as the ensemble celebrated American heritage through song and dance.
As the applause swelled, Dean stepped forward toward the camera, his expression solemn yet proud. With a reverent tone, he echoed President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s memorable introduction of Kate Smith from three decades earlier, just as she prepared to sing her most iconic anthem. The spotlight shifted to Kate, now standing center stage, her poise commanding the room.
Kate Smith, affectionately remembered as ‘The Songbird of the South,’ had been a beloved figure throughout World War II, known not only for her powerful vocals but also for her unwavering patriotism and support of American troops. Her career, spanning over five decades in both radio and television, left an indelible mark on American entertainment. She had performed for presidents, dignitaries, and millions of citizens, becoming a symbol of hope and national pride during some of the country’s most challenging times.
With the orchestra poised behind her, she began to sing ‘God Bless America,’ the timeless composition by Irving Berlin. The familiar opening fanfare rang out, and her voice, rich and resonant, filled the hall with every word. As she progressed through the verses, her delivery grew in intensity and emotion, capturing the audience in rapt attention. By the time she reached the final, soaring high note, the entire hall was on its feet, offering thunderous applause and cheers. It was a moment that transcended performance—a heartfelt tribute to a nation, its history, and the enduring power of music.
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Video source: Inter-pathé