South Philly's Al Martino Dies
AP
Al Martino played the Frank Sinatra-type role of Johnny Fontane in "The Godfather" died at his childhood home in Springfield, in Delaware County on October 13, 2009. He was 82.
Al Martino, the famous crooner from South Philly, died Tuesday at his home in Springfield, Delaware County. He was 82.
"It's so crazy," golden-oldies disc jockey Jerry Blavat told the Philadelphia Inquirer. Jerry and Al were friends for more than fifty years.
Martino, who was born Alfred Cini. Instead of following the family tradition and making a living as a bricklayer, Martino followed his love of music. His signature song was "Spanish Eyes." Other favorites include "Daddy's Little Girl," "Mary in the Morning" and "I Love You Because."
A lot of people remember Martino for his role in The Godfather, where he played the Sinatra-like singer named Johnny Fontane.
He was "a hero in South Philadelphia, with that magnificent voice of his," Blavat said. Martino is survived by his wife and two daughters. The public relations company that put out the notice on Martino's passing did not say what caused his death.
Get More: The Philadelphia Inquirer
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