The Evansville Courier (Aug. 11th 2005)

Fairs making music a shared state of mind

There's plenty of hype and hoopla about every aspect of a state fair, no matter what state it's in, no matter how large or how small. In this area, from Kentucky to DuQuoin and Indiana to Illinois, the annual events are fun-filled days of cotton candy and Ferris wheels, judging and judges, noises and people and fun.

State fairs also are a great place to see top-notch musical talent. While much of it is country music, some pop, hip hop and oldies, even a little symphonic music usually work their way into the mix.

Blake Shelton, who played the Vanderburgh County 4-H Fair a few weeks ago, said he enjoys hittin' the fair circuit. "I know it sounds corny, but we just love music and love having the opportunity to perform.

"Playing smaller venues is what I'd be doing if I weren't doing this for a living. And playing the state fairs is more fun than anything. Everybody's in a good mood, and everybody wants to have some FUN!"

Before Rascal Flatts appeared in Evansville earlier this year, Jay DeMarcus talked about the importance of being accessible to fans, which certainly is possible at state fairs. "It's important to meet the fans, to shake their hands and let them know how much we appreciate their support. We have jobs because of them. If you, as a performer ever forget that, you're in trouble."