The Great American Songbook always represented a cross between sophistication and popularity, but never more so than during the War years.

The intensity of the times united people, especially in their desire to embrace something that could help them escape the trauma of the times. The songs became much more patriotic, a bit sweeter and perhaps a bit simpler in form.

Featured tracks include:

(I’ve Got a Gal in) Kalamazoo – Glenn Miler

Praise the Lord and Pass the Ammunition – Kay Kyser & his Orchestra

Serenade in Blue – Stan Getz

That Old Black Magic – Sammy Davis Jr.

There Will Never Be Another You – Chet Baker

You’d Be So Nice to Come Home To – Helen Merrill

I’ll Be Home for Christmas – Bing Crosby

White Christmas – Darlene Love

Oh, What a Beautiful Morning – Ray Charles

One for My Baby – Frank Sinatra

People Will Say We’re in Love – Ray Charles

Surrey with the Fringe on Top – James Taylor

You’ll Never Know – Johnny Mathis

Ac-Cent-Tchu-Ate the Positive – NRBQ

The Girl Next Door – Frank Sinatra