Dick Haymes (September 13, 19… Read Full Bio ↴Powerful, milky smooth, rich baritone.
Dick Haymes (September 13, 1918 – March 28, 1980) was one of the most popular American male vocalists of the 1940s and early 1950s.
He was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina. His Irish-born mother, Marguerite Haymes (1894-1987), was a well-known vocal coach and instructor. He became the vocalist in a number of big bands, worked in Hollywood on radio and in many films throughout the forties and fifties.
He never became a United States citizen and avoided military service during World War II by asserting his non-belligerent status as a citizen of Argentina, which was neutral. Years later (1955), this act of his nearly caused his deportation to Argentina on an unrelated technicality in immigration law. During World War II, he was briefly detained at Ellis Island.
Haymes was married six times and had six children. His most famous marriages were to film actresses Joanne Dru (1941-1949) and Rita Hayworth (1953-1955). His daughter Stephanie Haymes was married to Sir Elton John's lyricist Bernie Taupin
He died in Los Angeles from lung cancer, at the age of 61.
Nice Work If You Can Get It
Dick Haymes Lyrics
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Lives a life that isn't necessarily sunny
Likewise the man who works for fame
There's no guarantee that time won't erase his name
The fact is, the only work that really brings enjoyment
Is the kind that is for girl and boy meant
Fall in love and you won't regret it
Holding hands at midnight
'Neath a starry sky
Nice work if you can get it
And you can get it if you try
Strolling with the one girl
Sighing sigh after sigh
Nice work if you can get it
And you can get it if you try
Just imagine someone
Waiting at the cottage door
Where two hearts become one
Who could ask for anything more?
Loving one who loves you
And then taking that vow
It's nice work if you can get it
And if you get it, won't you tell me how?"
Just imagine someone
Waiting at the cottage door
Where two hearts become one
Who could ask for anything more?
Loving one who loves you
And then taking that vow
Nice work if you can get it
And if you get it, won't you tell me how?"
The lyrics of Dick Haymes's song "Nice Work If You Can Get It" convey a message about the value and meaning of different types of work and the ultimate source of happiness and fulfillment in life. The song presents contrasting perspectives on work and its rewards. It suggests that the pursuit of money and fame alone does not guarantee a happy life, as they may not bring genuine enjoyment or leave a lasting legacy. On the other hand, the song emphasizes that the work of love, the work that brings two hearts together, is the most rewarding and fulfilling.
The first few lines highlight the limitations and potential pitfalls of exclusively dedicating one's life to making money or seeking fame. The lyrics suggest that a life focused solely on these pursuits may not lead to personal happiness or a sunny disposition. The second verse articulates that while fame can bring temporary recognition, there is no guarantee that one's name will withstand the test of time. This implies that fame, in and of itself, may not bring long-lasting satisfaction or fulfillment.
The song then shifts its focus to the work that does bring genuine enjoyment and fulfillment, highlighting the beauty of falling in love. The lyrics imply that love between a man and a woman is the kind of work that is truly meant for them, emphasizing that this is the best work of all. Holding hands at midnight and strolling with one's beloved under a starry sky become the symbols of the joy and fulfillment that love can bring.
The chorus of the song reinforces this message by suggesting that finding love and experiencing the happiness it brings is indeed nice work, but it requires effort and perseverance. The lyrics state that if you try, you can attain this kind of work. The song concludes with a hopeful question, inquiring how one can achieve this kind of work and love, inviting listeners to ponder and explore the possibilities.
Overall, "Nice Work If You Can Get It" celebrates the significance of love and relationships as the true source of happiness and fulfillment in life. It suggests that, despite the challenges and uncertainties, the work of love is ultimately the most rewarding and desirable.
Line by Line Meaning
The man who only lives for making money
A person who prioritizes monetary gain above all else
Lives a life that isn't necessarily sunny
Does not necessarily lead a happy or fulfilling life
Likewise the man who works for fame
Similarly, someone who strives for recognition and acclaim
There's no guarantee that time won't erase his name
There is no certainty that his achievements or reputation will endure
The fact is, the only work that really brings enjoyment
In reality, the only work that truly brings satisfaction
Is the kind that is for girl and boy meant
Is the work of love and companionship
Fall in love and you won't regret it
When you experience love, you will not feel regret
That's the best work of all, if you can get it
It is the most fulfilling work, if you are fortunate enough to find it
Holding hands at midnight
Engaging in intimate affection under the night sky
'Neath a starry sky
Beneath the beauty of the starry night
Nice work if you can get it
It is a pleasant and desirable experience if you are able to attain it
And you can get it if you try
It is achievable if you make an effort and actively seek it
Strolling with the one girl
Leisurely walking alongside a beloved partner
Sighing sigh after sigh
Expressing deep emotions and contentment through sighs
Just imagine someone
Envision having a special person in your life
Waiting at the cottage door
Anticipating the presence of your loved one at the entrance of a cozy home
Where two hearts become one
Creating a bond of love and unity between two individuals
Who could ask for anything more?
What more could one desire or wish for?
Loving one who loves you
Having affection for someone who reciprocates that love
And then taking that vow
Committing to a lifelong promise of love and fidelity
It's nice work if you can get it
It is a delightful experience if you are fortunate enough to find such love
And if you get it, won't you tell me how?
If you achieve this kind of love, please share your secrets or experiences with me
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Royalty Network, Songtrust Ave, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: George Gershwin, Ira Gershwin
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind