Dean Martin—”Ain’t That A Kick In The Head” (1960)

"Ain't That A Kick In The Head" is a classic song from 1960, written especially for the Warner Bros Picture "Ocean's Eleven." The music was written by Jimmy Van Heusen, and the lyrics were by Sammy Cahn. Ohio-born singer Dean Martin (Dino Paul Croceti, 1917-1995), recorded the song on August 3, 1960 with the Nelson Riddle Orchestra. For the movie, Martin recorded it in another arrangement with a group featuring one of the earliest jazz vibraphonists, Red Norvo, with his sidemen.

Dean Martin accompanied by The Red Norvo Quintet: Red Norvo-vibraphone; Jerry Dodgion-alto saxophone; Jimmy Wyble- guitar; probably Steve Swallow-double bass; and John Markham-drums. Actor/singer Dean Martin fakes playing the piano. That part is done by fellow actor Frank Sinatra's regular pianist Bill Miller, who was also part of Norvo's Quintet at the time. The year before, Frank had toured Australia with the same quintet, which then included bass player Lawrence Red Wooten. Other musicians which are audible come from Nelson Riddle's Hollywood studio orchestra.

The clip from "Ocean's Eleven," was directed by producer Lewis Milestone. The movie premiered in Las Vegas, Nevada, on Saturday, August 3, 1960, when Martin's Capitol single was already out. Despite the movie's succes, the song never reached a top chart position.