Ain't That a Kick in the Head

About

Written by Jimmy Van Heusen and Sammy Cahn in 1960, Ain’t That a Kick in the Head was first performed by Dean Martin in the original Ocean’s Eleven film. Although it initially failed to chart, the song later became synonymous with Martin’s suave persona and the swagger of the Rat Pack. For Swing When You’re Winning, Robbie Williams delivered his own exuberant take, transforming the number into a brassy showpiece that channels both humour and pure joy.

Arranged by Steve Sidwell, the track bursts with bold horns and a walking bassline, echoing the Count Basie Orchestra’s punchy swing style. Williams sings with grinning self-assurance, clearly relishing every line — “Like the fella once said, ain’t that a kick in the head.” His delivery captures the dizzy euphoria of falling in love, giving the lyric its double meaning of shock and delight.

Frank was the voice, but Dean was the Don. That song’s his all over — cool, funny and effortless. I just tried to do it justice.Robbie Williams

Veteran jazz drummer Harold Jones, who played on the session, later remarked that “the kid really gets the swing thing.” Williams’ performance confirms it: the phrasing is confident, the tone bright, and the energy contagious. A staple of his later swing tours, Ain’t That a Kick in the Head encapsulates the album’s balance of reverence and irreverence — a loving salute to Dean Martin’s charm, delivered with Robbie’s unmistakable grin.