For many years, traditional country music was a dominant force on New York State Fair stages. CRYSTAL 4But for about a dozen years, it’s become exceedingly rare. So when Crystal Gayle, a classic country singer with decades of popularity, performed on Wednesday it’s was a real treat for those on the Chevy Court benches.

Many of those fans perked up upon hearing the familiar notes leading into the Grammy-winning song “Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue,” one of the greatest singles in country music history and a crossover hit as well. Gayle’s impeccable timing and lush phrasing is still powerful 47 years after that landmark recording was paced by Country Hall-of-Fame pianist Pig Robbins’ lilting intro. That award-winning song, composed by Richard Leigh’s, came near the end of her hour-long set.

Earlier, Gayle sang fewer of her 18 chart-topping hits than may have been expected–she did “Talking in Your Sleep”, “Somebody Loves You” and “I’ll Get Over You,” among others. She also sprinkled her set with songs made famous by Patsy Cline, Johnny Rodriguez and the Osborne Brothers while also performing her rendition of “Coal Miner’s Daughter” to lead into a warm reminiscence of her famed sister, Loretta Lynn. She recalled how Loretta advised her to find her own musical identity, which worked out very well for little sister.

CRYSTAL 5Fans may have been wondering if Gayle still wears her famed brunette locks calf-length–she does. It’s her trademark look, much like Willie Nelson’s pony tail, Jimmy Dickens’ height or Dolly Parton’s–well, you know. Her sky blue tunic, tall black boots and plethora of gold and turquoise jewelry completed her fashion statement.

Her warmth and charisma are often traits of many country performers of her generation and should serve as a lesson for young artists, full of arrogance and attitude. For Gayle and her contemporaries, class and respect are as much a part of the show as fiddles and harmony. Let’s hope the Fair give us more classic country shows in future years.