Freddy Martin

about

Freddy Martin (1906–1983) was an American bandleader and tenor saxophonist, known for his smooth "sweet" dance music style. Born in Cleveland and raised in an orphanage, he began on drums before switching to saxophone, leading his first band in high school. After early stints with Arnold Johnson and Jack Albin, he formed his own band in 1931 at the Bossert Hotel in Brooklyn, pioneering the “Tenor Band” style with a melodic lead tenor sax. He recorded for Columbia, Brunswick, and RCA, becoming a radio favorite. His 1941 hit "Tonight We Love", adapted from Tchaikovsky’s piano concerto, cemented his fame and led to more classical-inspired hits. Nicknamed “Mr. Silvertone,” he was admired by musicians like Chu Berry and Johnny Hodges for his smooth tone, though he never played jazz. Martin discovered talents such as Merv Griffin and Helen Ward, appeared in 1940s films, and directed Elvis Presley’s first Las Vegas show. He continued performing into the 1970s, briefly leading Guy Lombardo’s band in 1977. His novelty song "Pico and Sepulveda" (1947), recorded under the name Felix Figueroa, gained cult status through Dr. Demento and Forbidden Zone. Martin died in 1983 at age 76. User-contributed text is available under the Creative Commons By-SA License; additional terms may apply.

top songs

albums

Greatest Jazz Hits

Presenting Freddy Martin

The Way You Look Tonight

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Ultra-Lounge / TV Town Volume Thirteen

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Bewitched

Hits Collection 1933-53

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The Hits Of The 30's & 40's

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Number One Hits Of The '40s

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Tonight We Love

Ultra-Lounge, Vol. 13: TV Town

Mr. Silvertone: Freddy Martin

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Billboard Top Pop Singles Of 1946

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