What makes State Fair by Dick Haymes notable?

The album features songs that have become standards in the American songbook, particularly 'It Might as Well Be Spring', which won an Academy Award for Best Original Song. Its release contributed to the post-war musical landscape by bringing a sense of optimism and joy, resonating with audiences eager for uplifting content after years of conflict. In 1946, Dick Haymes was transitioning from radio stardom to recording success, with 'State Fair' being his first album release following his significant radio fame. This album came after his rise to popularity through performances on shows like 'Your Hit Parade', marking a pivotal moment in solidifying his presence in the music industry as a traditional pop vocalist.

Who is State Fair for?

State Fair works well if you're into nostalgic reflections of simpler times, warm melodies for cheerful moments and playful tunes for lighthearted gatherings.

Released 80 years ago

State Fair

Dick Haymes · 1946

6 tracks · traditional pop

Lush orchestrations and smooth vocals evoke the nostalgia and charm of a mid-century American fair.

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Top tracks — play these first

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It Might as Well Be Spring — This track showcases Haymes' smooth vocal delivery and emotional depth, embodying the hopeful spirit of springtime and renewal.
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That’s for Me — The song highlights Haymes' ability to convey romantic yearning through its lush melody and heartfelt delivery.
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Isn’t It Kinda Fun! — This upbeat number captures the joy and carefree nature of the fair experience, demonstrating Haymes' versatility as a performer.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

Lush orchestrations and smooth vocals create a nostalgic charm, though the songwriting is conventional for its time.

What we noticed

The album features lush orchestral arrangements that complement Haymes' smooth vocal delivery, creating a rich soundscape.
Each track maintains a consistent mid-tempo pace, with the exception of 'It Might as Well Be Spring', which serves as a standout ballad.
The lyrics often reflect themes of nostalgia and joy, typical of post-war American sentiment, enhancing the album's charm.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

nostalgic reflections of simpler times
warm melodies for cheerful moments
playful tunes for lighthearted gatherings
soothing background for afternoon leisure

Maybe skip if you

prefer modern, fast-paced music
seek heavy emotional intensity

Where this album fits

Career context: In 1946, Dick Haymes was transitioning from radio stardom to recording success, with 'State Fair' being his first album release following his significant radio fame. This album came after his rise to popularity through performances on shows like 'Your Hit Parade', marking a pivotal moment in solidifying his presence in the music industry as a traditional pop vocalist.
Stylistic neighbors: Frank Sinatra· Nat King Cole· Tony Bennett

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

It’s a Grand Night for Singing

The bridge shifts from a reflective tone to an exultant celebration of music and companionship.

This transition marks a pivotal moment in the song, amplifying its theme of joy and community, contrasting with the earlier introspective lyrics.