Introduction:
Al Martino’s rendition of “Somewhere, My Love” is a notable recording of a song that has become a classic in its own right. The song, originally composed by Maurice Jarre with lyrics by Paul Francis Webster, first gained fame as the main theme for the 1965 film Doctor Zhivago, where it was presented as an instrumental piece. Known as “Lara’s Theme” in the movie, the melody captivated audiences with its sweeping, romantic quality, perfectly capturing the essence of the epic love story set against the backdrop of the Russian Revolution.
Al Martino’s version of “Somewhere, My Love” was released in 1966, a year after the film’s release, and appeared on his album Somewhere My Love (Lara’s Theme). This album was one of many in Martino’s illustrious career, showcasing his distinctive baritone voice, which had become popular in the early 1950s. As a vocalist renowned for his work in the traditional pop and easy-listening genres, Martino brought a new emotional depth to the already famous melody, transforming it into a romantic ballad with English lyrics.
The song is part of the easy-listening genre, which was highly popular in the 1960s. Martino’s smooth delivery and the lush orchestral arrangement made his version of “Somewhere, My Love” a standout in a crowded field of covers and interpretations of the song. His interpretation was well-received, with the album achieving commercial success, reaching audiences who enjoyed sentimental and melodically rich songs.
While Martino’s version didn’t chart as highly as other interpretations, it remains a beloved rendition, often included in collections of romantic classics. His performance of “Somewhere, My Love” further solidified his status as one of the premier balladeers of his time, adding to a catalog that spanned both pop standards and timeless love songs.