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.
Soft Lights And Sweet Music
Dick Haymes Lyrics
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I can't resist the light of the moon
So place me in a light that is mellow
And let me hear a beautiful tune
The music must flow
The lights must be low
Soft lights and sweet music
Soft lights and sweet melody
Will bring you closer to me
Chopin' and pale moonlight
Reveal all your charms
So give me velvet lights and sweet music
And you in my arms
The lyrics of Dick Haymes's song "Soft Lights and Sweet Music" describe the singer's desire to be surrounded by a romantic ambiance of soft lights, beautiful music, and the company of his loved one. He confesses his inability to resist the melancholic sound of a cello and the alluring light of the moon. The singer's requests for a light that is mellow and a beautiful tune to listen to, emphasize his craving for an environment that is relaxed and indulgent, where he can fully immerse himself in the experience. The music must flow and the lights must be low to provide the perfect backdrop for his romantic intentions. The singer's ardor is further highlighted when he mentions wanting to hold his loved one in his arms within this sensuous setting. The lyrics of this song successfully capture the essence of a dreamy and romantic atmosphere that captures the heart.
Line by Line Meaning
I can't resist the moan of a cello
The deep sound of a cello is so irresistible to me that I cannot help but be drawn to it.
I can't resist the light of the moon
The soft glow of the moon is also irresistible to me and captures my attention.
So place me in a light that is mellow
To fully enjoy the music and moonlight, I need to be surrounded by a soft, warm light.
And let me hear a beautiful tune
The music I listen to must be beautiful, captivating and soothing.
The music must flow
The melodies of the music must flow naturally and create a seamless experience.
The lights must be low
The lights need to be dimmed to create a romantic and intimate setting.
Soft lights and sweet music
Dimmed, warm lights and beautiful music together create a dream-like atmosphere and offer a soothing experience.
And you in my arms
The ultimate joy would be to have the person you love in your arms while enjoying the beautiful music and setting.
Soft lights and sweet melody
Melody is as important to me as the lights- they both contribute to the overall experience.
Will bring you closer to me
The atmosphere created by the music and lights will help bring us closer together, as we share this magical moment together.
Chopin' and pale moonlight
Listening to classical music, especially pieces like Chopin's, is ideal when listening to music under the moonlight.
Reveal all your charms
Under the glow of the moon and accompanied by such beautiful music, I know I'll get to see all the best qualities in my partner's charming personality, and we can both enjoy it.
So give me velvet lights and sweet music
Again, we see that the ideal setting includes the soft and warm lights that resemble velvet, and the music has to be as sweet and captivating as can be.
And you in my arms
Reiterated to emphasize that the best way to enjoy music, lights, and a romantic atmosphere is with the love of my life right there with me.
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: DP, IRVING BERLIN, NOEL COWARD, RAY NOBLE, VICTOR HERBERT
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind