I had a girlfriend back in the day who loved Karen, but, after she died, could only listen to about a minute of any song. Rainy days and Mondays would reduce her to tears within 30 seconds. I don't like AOC at all. Hate it. But like the bee gees with disco, I make an unqualified exception to Karen's work. Best Voice Ever
She often has got plenty of time as to her phrasing. Hadn't she been a jazz drummer first and foremost? A drummer who sang, according to her own definition. And there are so many long, long notes (reminiscing the cantus firmus of the Notre Dame epoch quite a bit) in many of the Carpenters' melodies … Karen thankfully and delightfully took the opportunity in bathing in them. The result makes melodies breathe, i.e. human: you can easily tune in to such an offer.
I was a huge fan of Alpert as a kid. Happily he is still active, scared to perform in my hometown next spring, and I may try to go to that for old times' sake.
I'm a classically trained singer, sang all genres for decades. Knowing what goes into great vocals, listening to her sing is the most comfortable thing in the world. There is no other pop singer I'd rather listen to -- not even the incomparable Barbara Streisand. Her phrasing, her control, the smoothness, the sheer beauty of her voice ... It absolutely breaks my heart. RIP dearest Karen.
Karen doesn't need autotune. She is nearly 100% dead on. There's a guy, think his channel is Wings of Pegasus, who does electronic analysis of singers' pitch control and Karen is one of the most accurate he has ever found. The best.
Karen was 33 when she passed. The day she died I was driving between appointments, it was rainin, the announcer of the FM station interrupted a song to announce her death. He was choked up and said this song was so appropriate, and played Rainy Days and Mondays. I had to pull over as I started to cry. Such a great talent.
It’s funny how you can cry for someone you’ve never met. I cried when Princess Diana died. I never followed her. I wasn’t into the whole Royal family thing but when I saw her casket and the funeral procession I cried. Strange huh?
And those of us who studied about the phenomenon (they were a phenomenon), from all we can gather…she wasn’t perfect (who is) but was a truly nice person. A real tragedy.
I’ve always said that Karen Carpenter had the best female voice of all time…the richness of it is magical. The Carpenters harmonies were incredible. I miss her terribly. ❤️ 🎶
some dudes would refuse to talk about the carpenters but rick knows it better! and he is so right doing so. this duo deserves to be treated well. thank you rick. ❤️
My heart still aches that Karen Carpenter left us too soon. Can you only imagine what else she would have brought to the world with her golden voice. She will forever live on for those who came of age in the 70's. Rest in Peace beautiful Lady.
@William Adams That's SO true! When me and my wife go shopping every Tuesday at Walmart they pipe music through and it's the same thing the singing is just some person yelling and it all sounds the same
Purity. No fancy runs and vocal tricks, nothing gratuitous and show-offy just pure sustained control. Lovely vibrato and perfect pitch. No auto tune. Modern singers take note!
I agree. So many pop singers are all over the place and can’t seem to just sing the melody and bring out the beauty of the line with the harmonies. It is tiring and tedious.
I think Karen Carpenter had a way of sounding emotive without sounding soppy or whiny. It’s emotional sounding yet authoritative at the same time. Truly rare.
The problem with the carpenters is they had a very distinct sound they did not deviate from. Even in Goodbye to Love, a song with an electric guitar solo, it is distinctly Carpenters. Even the cover of Jambalaya,a Hank Williams song has been thoroughly Carpenterized. It's possible they would have adopted to the changing musical preferences in the 80s, but I find that highly unlikely. You just don't change what propelled you into superstardom. Very few bands have been able to do that.
I very much hope that the multitrack tapes from their recording sessions still exist. No disrespect to Richard, but it's his instrumentation that dates their sound, not Karen's vocals. If there is a way to back Karen with more modern instrumentation, her legacy might grow.@@christo930
I went to the same HS as Karen and Richard though they graduated a few years before me, I still clearly remember the day they came into the band room to tell our/their band teacher, Bruce Gifford, that they had signed a record contract with A&M. I still tear up hearing Karen sing. As others have noted, we lost her way too soon.
My dad passsed away a week ago, & while in the hospital days before he passed on, we would play the carpenters. Which was one of his all time favorite acts. While attached to a respirator, he would still respond by tapping his fingers along with the carpenters music.
This is absolutely true. I played my brother a rather obscure album track I was sure he had never heard before and he identified her in like one second and I'm not exaggerating.
Ric I am 60 years old and I hope your younger audience will listen to more of Karen's singing she is up there with one of the most beautiful singing voices of all time
I saw a young singer on Tiktok who has a phenomenal voice covering We've Only Just Begun. Was encouraging to see the engagement. They won't be for everyone but those who understand and appreciate vocals and arrangements will hopefully pick it up.
Her voice is so angelic. The best way to explain her voice is pure silk, velvety, controlled, smooth, and so light and soothing. No other singer can replicate her angelic voice.
But believe me, there's a cover called "Tori Holub" on RUclips that sings almost the same, without imitating, because it's her natural voice! Many people get emotional when they hear it, just check it out!
In 1971 I was leaving for Vietnam and Superstar was being played everywhere. When I was returning back to The USA in 1972, Goodbye to Love was being played everywhere. The Carpenters and their music have had a place in my heart since the beginning.
"Superstar" is my absolute favorite song from The Carpenters. This song makes my eyes well up with tears knowing she is no longer with us. Karen Carpenter is irreplaceable. There will never be another.
One thing I loved about Karen was that you could hear every word she sang. She reminds me of those British singers like Petula Clark and Vera Lynn, who enunciated every word clearly.
She is in the top 5 all time female singer, she lived a tragic life not understanding her own awesome worth… she had a dominating mother and a poor body image, very sad 😢
This is a great point. I never fully appreciated this before, at least not in any articulated sense (if maybe a fuzzy intuition), but it is absolutely true!
Not only did Karen have a fantastic voice, but she was a phenomenal drummer. I saw the carpenters in 1972 or 73. It was amazing. I had never seen a woman drummer before.
@@thomasfisher5742I've wondered the same. According to those who knew her well, she was painfully shy. But, she could deal with being on stage better playing her drums. She was an excellent drummer & ultimately it was a huge mistake to pull her off of the kit & push her to front the band. It's sad.
Karen understood how her audience loved her deeper notes. She said, “The money’s in the basement.” Thank you, Rick, for highlighting the beauty of the Carpenter’s music.😍
Richard's professor at long beach state, frank pooler helped karen with her voice. Karen was actually a soprano and frank helped her bring out the buzz in her lower voice. My mother was one of her backup singers. I used to sit in on rehearsals as a kid.
I played rock and metal most of my musical career, and now play R&B and jazz. But The Carpenters will always be one of my favourite groups of all time. Karen's voice is just sublime and so moving.
Same. I listen primarily to metal, progressive rock, grunge, classic rock stuff. But my deserted island playlist definitely includes Carpenters and Barry Manilo.
Karen's low contralto make me cry. Her clarity while maintaining the core fills the soul from top to bottom. I'm proud to have been in this generation of music.
I heard them live when they performed at my college. I was stunned that they sounded like their records. They played through Kustom amps and P.A.. That was it Their success was just taking off. After the performance, they were breaking down their own gear...no road crew. I just walked up on the stage and started talking to Karen while she was tearing down her kit. I asked her how they were able to nail the blend of those complex harmonies. She said while they were playing gigs at Disneyland, they took individual voice lessons (with the same vocal coach) on one day of the week then the whole band would have a group vocal lesson with the same coach for blending work. The result was they nailed their harmonies as polished and beautiful as the records. I learned later that Karen and Richard did all the background vocals on the records. There were six members in the live band and they all sang so I just assumed it was all of them recording the vocal background... it was that good. She was such genuinely kind musician to take the time to explain their process. A memory I'll always treasure. P.S. She was a great drummer too!
I remember Hearing her say in an Interview she was annoyed of being asked about her Hair and her dresses and never about the music. So apparently You touched the right string with Your question! Thank you for sharing that memory.
And everything, EVERYTHING is autotuned now. Even TV performances get auto tuned before they hit the air - like Kelly Clarkson. Celine Dion was prerecorded at the Olympics. Karen was SO PURE!!
It is definitely corny seeming and AM radio compared to something like “Sticky Fingers”. But their music was so well done that you have to respect that the Carpenters were the very best of their genre of music. As I’ve gotten older I definitely have come to appreciate that there is a time and place for everything, even over the top 70’s mellowness.
The Carpenters were that one unique group that both hippies, hard rockers and our grandparents ALL LOVED. Can't think of another that ever accomplished that much crossover appeal.
Great point. Near universal appeal. Hard to accomplish in an industry where success is often measured by being different. Having obtained that broad appeal made them different which, in turn, brought them well deserved success.
Those were truly the BEST DAYS in music history!! Songwriting, Musicianship, Vocal/Vocal Harmony, Producing, Engineering and Technology all came together!!
I have always thought that Karen was perhaps the greatest female vocalist in my lifetime. Glad to see that Rick loved her voice as well. This is what is GREAT about Rick. While I know good music, and great vocals, when I hear them, I don't know really WHY they are great. Rick has the experience, knowledge, and vocabulary to explain it to me. I LOVE THIS CHANNEL!
Goodbye To Love is near the top of the list for me too. And it truly is a Carpenters song, written by Carpenter and Bettis, not a cover. The inclusion of the "fuzz guitar" (by Instant Joy's Tony Peluso) made that 1972 classic the very first power ballad, too.
Superstar is one of the ten greatest ballads of the entire rock era. It's a hauntingly beautiful melody, wistful and aching, with its morose lyrics and perfect arrangement: Karen just merges into the song at every turn (and as many know she sang the verses' lyrics off a napkin in one take). Her rich alto and impeccable delivery make it seem as if Leon Russell wrote the song for her. To me it will always be the greatest Carpenters song: it holds up under every single hearing and gets you every time. A tour de force.
Yes her voice in those lower ranges in this. ...second show... just the radio...most sensual tone I've heard ever, as though it was meant to me personally...any guitarist in a band who was chased by a groupie type must think more softly about her after hearing these words
Absolutely. The arrangements were excellent and really improved the songs big time. I think there was a touch of genius there. Richard really knew what made a good pop record. The vocal harmonies were one of the big attractions for me.
@@daveyest Richard was brilliant. But when you are in a duo with Karen, there is only the possibility of second place. I think even Richard would admit this. Karen was one of the most perfect voices ever to move air.
@@nickmariotti4241 No second place for either. They were definitely a duo. A lot of the appeal was her great singing, but without Richard the songs wouldn’t have cut. I love her voice, but her solo album was pretty mediocre and dull as there was none of Richard’s genius in the arrangements and production.
@@daveyest No intention of denigrating Richard. As a keyboard player of far lesser talent myself, I have enormous respect for his abilities. In my opinion there was no "Carpenters" without them BOTH. It just seems to me that the gap between Karen and practically all other singers was even greater than that separating Richard from other composer/arrangers. I mean, if I might mention Richard in the same general ballpark with a Brian Wilson or a Burt Bacharach or a Jimmy Webb, I can't think of any singers anywhere nearly as close to Karen. There's really no one else in her ballpark; she's actually in a whole league, all by herself. I don't mean to say she was the "best" because that is too subjective and I don't get into saying one artist is "better" than another--we all have those we like and some more than others. I am just trying to express how extraordinary Karen was. I really can't think of anyone like her. It was not JUST her low range, her phenomenally accurate pitch, always nailing the tonal center, her immaculate phrasing, her smoothness--any ONE of those things would have made her a great talent. She had ALL of them. I know there's no way to express how apart from the rest I believe she was without it sounding like I'm putting Richard down, but that is not my intent. There was definitely a synergy there as neither was really successful without the other. You rightly mention Karen's solo album but it is also true of Richard's post-Karen career. It might be fairly said that Richard, understanding her abilities, and also being her brother, got more out of her than anyone else could have. He used her brilliantly as the primary instrument in creating the unique Carpenters sound. Karen's loss was deeply tragic, for all of us who loved the Carpenters' art and inexpressibly more so for Richard, as he lost his blood sister and musical partner and collaborator. She was irreplaceable. I feel certain he understood this which is why he never tried to.
Karen's dynamics set her apart. Not only does she swell in volume at the end of a phrase, she opens her mouth during the crescendo to alter timbre at the same time. It's engaging. It feels like she's turning her head and singing to you, personally. Not been replicated or equaled.
Oh man, that is EXACTLY what I have always said about her delivery. Like she is talking to YOU, and you intimately. It’s a combination of her timbre, the way she adjusts it, and the feeling she puts into her phrasing and timing (her dynamics.) So you have said this perfectly and analysed from the most learned perspective. I have explained this before to rubes who said she wasn’t special. The closest others came include Matt Monroe in a simple way. On a small handful of numbers, Sinatra conveyed this, to wit: “I Have Dreamed” and “The Way You Look Tonight” and a few others and he has a body of work that may be the greatest overall next to Ella’s for a vocalist in the 20th century. Do you agree? I would think we could talk about this for hours, because you are the first guy I saw define this the way I do and I am certain about it!
We should mention that Paul Williams was one of the songwriters of many of these beautiful songs. Obviously, Karen had an amazing incomparablly beautiful voice and her brother was an excellent arraigner . It’s a beautiful compilation you have put together. Thank you for all the work you do in describing the music we grew up with.
Yea, I'm waiting for him to mention that. They didn't write any of their hits. Maybe co-wrote one or two. I agree their arrangements and performances were nice.
Rick, I found you by listening to my Favorite female singer, Karen Carpenter. I Am a Huge Fan of you now! Keep bringing Amazing Videos of my favorites Artists. IslsndJ
Karen Carpenter’s annunciation of lyrics is incredible. Every word is heard without the ‘t’s and ‘s’ getting in the way and she’s able to emphasise words, whilst doing all her other incredible dynamics.
when rainy days starts, Rick sighs, like the girl his misses from his first or second love. like "I am NOT going to make it through this..." His reactions are nearly as wonderful and well-stated as the music. Thank you for the passion Rick. The older I get the more I could give a care..."The Carpenters created my favorite music"
“Merry Christmas Darling” is an absolute masterpiece. “but I can dream, and in my dreams I’m Christmasing with you” - the chord changes and melodies are so beautiful and unique, great to play on guitar 🎸
I am 65...metal head...I learned how to slow dance in jr high to the Carpenters and MJ.....if you have not heard this young girl you are in for a treat.....TORI HOLUB - WE'VE ONLY JUST BEGUN
Goodbye to Love is a great marriage of classic Carpenters with "fuzz" guitar. Touch of the hard rock that everyone seemed to clamor for in the '70s, but just a touch.
Everyone always talks about how absolutely amazing Karen’s singing is, which it is SPECTACULAR! But one of my favorite parts of these songs is Richard carpenters background vocals! The ways the brother and sisters voices merge is so good
❤️🎶 Karen Carpenter is an angel, my mother used to listen to her all the time when I was younger, and I told her to shut the radio off. Not realizing how much talent she had. Now my parents are gone I find myself listening to the carpenters every morning.🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
Karen’s voice strikes you in your soul. So listening to her sing while thinking of your late Mom is a wonderful way to keep your connection with your Mom going strong. 👍❤
Carpenter's harmony was unbelievably rich and under rated. Man, her voice always touched my heart and gave me goose bumps. All my childhood sentiments.
As I'm sure many have already mentioned below, she was just 32 when she died. I can't imagine my childhood without her voice. So beautiful yet so melancholy. If you were a bit of a sad kid growing up in the seventies, chances are, her voice spoke directly to your heart. It sure did mine.
There was a time at high school when a few of us all flew in the face of fashion and 'came out' as Carpenters- lovers. Looking back now I realise we were all a bit broken in our own ways. Think we all heard that in Karen's voice and Richard's melodies. A clarion call for the damaged.
It's so crazy to think how when Richard and Karen started as a duo, I believe it was to promote his piano playing....him....I could be wrong, but I know the focus was not her AMAZING voice.... I love how Rick gets into music theory...."oh, there's the dominant 11..."
@@Jill_SmokeandMirrors Yes, for some reason the Carpenters in their day were seen as not cool. I guess they didn't fit the guitar band rock mold of the time, nor were they R&B, nor any other easy category. Even worse, I guess they were the sort of band your mom and grandma would like. But for me at least they were a guilty pleasure, and I now suspect for most others too. There was just no denying that voice.
She sings with such assurance and understanding. She's not just reciting or performing a piece , but completely inhabiting the mood, melody, meaning, development and drama. At the end, you feel like you had the most warm, natural conversation, without having to do a thing yourself! I can't think of another singer who does that.
I can't hear the Carpenters without tearing up. Every time for the past 35 years; the friend that introduced me to their music took her own life and to me the two are inextricably linked
Richard Carpenter wrote all the arrangements, both the vocal/band and orchestral parts. He was the genius that painted the backdrop to Karen's phenomenal vocals.
Heads and tails best voice I've ever heard. Clear and crisp and smooth at the ssme time. Tears flow every time I hear her incredible voice done so effortlessly. I wonder if she realized just how unique she was. Im glad to see others feel as I do about this phenomenonaly gifted human.
I have an uncle who was a professional local singer, and during one of his shows he talked about Karen being one of his greatest influences. He mentions how her voice will forever be unmatched and timeless, because you will never not understand a word she has ever sung in her songs. She so pure and clear. Legend.
That is such an insightful and useful way of looking at singers--you can understand every word she sings. It also makes me think of another singer 20 years later--Layne Staley. Despite all that noise and distortion, you can understand every word he sings, as well.
In 1973 I had the opportunity to sing with the Carpenters as one of a group of grade-school kids doing the backing vocal on their hit "Sing" at a show in my hometown. It was a huge thrill for me and my first and only touch with stardom. Of course I became a huge fan. Their music was so melodic and beautiful. Even my classical-leaning parents enjoyed it. My heart was broken when I heard Karen had passed away. Their music will always have a special place in my heart.
How cool. You must have been in a kids' choir to get that opportunity. Sing is one of my favorite Carpenters songs because of the lyrics, tune and the children's voices. "Don't worry that it's not good enough for anyone else to hear" gives me goosebumps.
I always loved The Carpenters. Their music was a large part of my teen years. I loved their music because I am also an alto, and could sing all their songs!
I got to see her in concert once. And she was pure perfection. Perfect pitch, perfect control, perfect look. She was incredibly beautiful in person, and everyone knew it. But her voice!! That was the true star of the show! It was so melodic and full. Best female voice of all time!
My Uncle D worked at A&M RECORDS HOLLYWOOD from 1969-1999. Beginning at age 7, I would be allowed to go to work with him during my summer school breaks. I literally witnessed music history being made behind those gates and the kindness of Herb Alpert. My own music journey playing piano and flute was heavily influenced by watching Richard and Karen LIVE at A&M. Almost 40 years after Karen's tragic death, she is still the BEST FEMALE SINGER and nobody else can touch her vocals. Richard is still the master of composition. " SING" 1973 is my favorite Carpenters song. Also, every song on their "Christmas Album."
Please share more! Rhonda, you were that fly on the wall that I had wished to be. Amazing. I want to know- did they sing the songs as the composer wrote them or did they make any changes during the recording sessions? Did they laugh and joke around …or more serious? Can you give more scene setting description?
What a beautiful life , and boy hood, and Muse 0f talent for music that you have had. If you're ever discouraged. Just reflect on those wonderful days. Those gifts are still you. God bless you. Gregg Oreo long Beach Ca
When I was in middle school in the 70”s, whenever I felt down or even physically sick, I would sing Top of the World to myself and I would feel better. Love her voice so much. I think Superstar is their best song.
Some of the most beautiful music ever created. Her voice was truly that of an angel, and Richard’s arrangements were beyond reproach. I never realized how much I listened to them as a kid, but I know the lyrics to nearly every song she sang. I miss her so much and am so sad that we will never hear the other lovely treasures she could have provided the world. That being said, she bestowed a rare beauty on the world and I feel blessed to have witnessed it.🙏🏼❤
Her low registry was the bomb! She has a very soothing yet haunting at the same time ,,,classic voice,,, her delivery and phrasing was the best , she’s always telling a story ❤ Classic!!!!
Yes!!! Omg I remember as a young girl trying to achieve the notes she could hit and really working at expanding my range to hit those low notes! I was born in ‘81 and my mom had Karen’s records playing all the time.
Richard was an unsung hero of the Carpenters. The combination of Karen’s soulful voice and his knowledge of instruments and how and why to use them, along with the layering of harmonies, was masterful.
I watched a documentary about the Carpenter’s and Richard became very jealous of Karen’s fame according to the doc. He is a master musician and did most of the mixing and instrumental’s. Their father got them started in music.
Yes I don't think he gets enough accolades for his arrangements. Of course I live for Karen but Richard did the arrangements and should be praised for such. He is a musical genius for sure. @@gregscupholm254
I'm a psychologist, producer, have PTSD and grew up through the Troubles in Northern Ireland. Music is great for coping but when a super educator like Rick begins to communicate, it all becomes so inspirational and even therapueutic.
She does one thing most beautifully that most singers struggle. Hitting the low notes in pitch and melodically. Most singers, when they do her songs raise the key.
THE purest most perfect female voice of ALL time. Perfect pitch, soothing warm tone, perfect use of vibrato. Perfection!!! Never mind the incredible production, arrangements, orchestration, and some of the most beautiful songs ever written. Absolute musical perfection overload. It does not get any better than this.
I am not really crazy about some of her songs but she did some songs as well as anyone could. There is a video of her and Ella Fitzgerald doing “this masquerade”. Very few People could sing on the same stage with Ella. Karen Carpenter did it well
I grew up with Carpenters music, and learned to play several of their songs. I cried when Karen died. I have never heard a female singer before or after her even come close to the beauty of her voice. Rick, thank you for this tribute. I got to hear my first love again.
The other day I was walking on downtown Vancouver and a man passed by singing "just like me, they long to be, close to you", I signed him a thumbs up and he was so happy
I hear her voice when Every one of her songs begins and I start blubbering like a family member or favorite Animal died...then by end of every song I'm left in shock of how much feeling she could manage to project and how utterly sweet her voice IS. We are blessed to have what we do..but I'd love to hear her singing today live 💜
Top Of The World gets me that way. I absolutely long the song with her incredibly rich vocal and the wonderful arrangement, but that’s juxtaposed with me thinking about her struggles and how tragically she died. Makes for a crazy mixed bag of emotions.
I'm a huge metalhead, I grew up with grunge and nu metal of the 90s and as soon as I discovered the Carpenters I was done. They're one of my lifelong favorite bands of all time. Absolutely timeless music that will never get boring. I'd shower them in praise any second of the day.
Check out the cover album from the 90’s “If I Were A Carpenter”. Sonic Youth’s cover of Superstar is incredible. Shonen Knife’s Top Of The World is pretty wild too.
As a j azz singer, I can truly say this voice is beyond magnificent. Control, vibratto, pitch all combined into the angelic beauty we get to hear. Her voice sometimes makes me cry with joy. And their harmonies - wow!
Crying through this whole video. From the opening notes - like a familiar movie - I know what’s coming. When Karen passed, a part of me died as well. I cannot explain it. But people who are emotionally moved by music will understand.
Let's give Richard some credit here. ALL the arrangements were done by him, the backing harmony vocals and his piano is all him. He was a brilliant musician in his own right.
Agree. Do you know what he did professionally after Karen died? The Carpenters were over, yet he still had all that brilliance. I heard interviews with him about the past, but never heard what he did professionally after that fame. She definitely had the better voice, but his music elevated the songs to fully rounded perfection. (IMHO)
Rick does say there is little difference among their top 5 songs he mentions...its just that Close To You is the one that does it for him if he had to pick one....
Yeah with you 100%. I consider the moment where Karen sings "...and when the evening comes..." when the harmonies come in on "...smile...", I just consider that a high point of 20th century music.
My first concert was the Carpenters. I was in 1st grade and this was about 1973. Mom told me we were going to see the Carpenters at Univ. of Illinois and I thought we were going to see a house being built. Great show for a 6 year old and Karen won my heart. I was crushed when she died. True story.
Karen Carpenter had probably the most *pure* voice ever. So beautiful and melodic. Every single one of these songs reminds me of when I was a kid, riding around in my Mom's '68 Ford LTD, listening to the AM radio -- this was back when WSB-AM actually had *music,* instead of news 24/7. Good memories. 🙂
Thank you thank you for giving The Carpenters attention. I've always loved The Carpenters. Heard them all through my childhood and never stopped listening. Karen's voice, Richard's piano and arrangements. Love it all! I used to sing The Carpenters to my son when he was a baby :)
My heart aches hearing this. She and Richard had it all. She slipped through our hands - The Carpenter's were so unique and they left such an impression on me and our family......RIP Karen. Peace to Richard - Rick I love what you do and how you do it......all I can say is thank you
Karen Carpenter's singing makes you happy and sad at the same time. Just magic.
She knew the essence of bitter-sweet life.
Magic and so tragic.
Perfect description.
I had a girlfriend back in the day who loved Karen, but, after she died, could only listen to about a minute of any song. Rainy days and Mondays would reduce her to tears within 30 seconds.
I don't like AOC at all. Hate it. But like the bee gees with disco, I make an unqualified exception to Karen's work.
Best
Voice
Ever
Perfect description of her voice!
Karen's voice makes me weep. Anyone else find her the voice of an angel?
Absolutely.. angelical,her first husband was a $&-"
She often has got plenty of time as to her phrasing. Hadn't she been a jazz drummer first and foremost? A drummer who sang, according to her own definition. And there are so many long, long notes (reminiscing the cantus firmus of the Notre Dame epoch quite a bit) in many of the Carpenters' melodies … Karen thankfully and delightfully took the opportunity in bathing in them. The result makes melodies breathe, i.e. human: you can easily tune in to such an offer.
Always have yes
Her voice is the only voice I have heard sing that does high and lower notes at the same time.
@@armastat Try e.g. Cathy Berberian.
Props to Herb Alpert who gave them a recording contract and allowed us to fall in love with their music.
For sure…. He was a musical genius along with his partner Jerry Moss at A&M Records
What a kind, insightful and generous comment! Well done!
Didn't he also play the flugelhorn himself on Close To You?
I was a huge fan of Alpert as a kid. Happily he is still active, scared to perform in my hometown next spring, and I may try to go to that for old times' sake.
@@ArbeiterInnenlieder It sounds like him but I think it's someone else. Herb does appear on Richard's 1987 solo album Time...
I'm a classically trained singer, sang all genres for decades. Knowing what goes into great vocals, listening to her sing is the most comfortable thing in the world. There is no other pop singer I'd rather listen to -- not even the incomparable Barbara Streisand. Her phrasing, her control, the smoothness, the sheer beauty of her voice ... It absolutely breaks my heart. RIP dearest Karen.
Just curious, because I find them so similar, what do you think about Linda Ronstadt?
@@danaturner244 Great, but not nearly as great as KC.
@@danaturner244Ronstadt is probably the most versatile vocalist of the late 20th Century. There is hardly a genre she has not tried and excelled at.
Have you listened to the brazilian singer Gal Costa?.
@@luizportes I have a lot. SHe's a wonderful singer. But kc is in a league of her own, imo.
Karen doesn't need autotune. She is nearly 100% dead on. There's a guy, think his channel is Wings of Pegasus, who does electronic analysis of singers' pitch control and Karen is one of the most accurate he has ever found. The best.
Yes, I saw that video. Worth the watch.
And, she nailed the songs and their feel with very few takes.
Fil! He’s great. Love his channel, too
Her timing and execution are second to none.
Superstar was one take
Karen was 33 when she passed. The day she died I was driving between appointments, it was rainin, the announcer of the FM station interrupted a song to announce her death. He was choked up and said this song was so appropriate, and played Rainy Days and Mondays. I had to pull over as I started to cry. Such a great talent.
i'm pretty sure many of us cried that day
It’s funny how you can cry for someone you’ve never met. I cried when Princess Diana died. I never followed her. I wasn’t into the whole Royal family thing but when I saw her casket and the funeral procession I cried. Strange huh?
Actually she was 32, about to be 33. Just missed it.
@@4tun1 Right, she was 4 weeks away from her 33rd. Will never forget that day, Feb 4, 1983, couldn't believe what the radio was telling me.
And those of us who studied about the phenomenon (they were a phenomenon), from all we can gather…she wasn’t perfect (who is) but was a truly nice person. A real tragedy.
I’ve always said that Karen Carpenter had the best female voice of all time…the richness of it is magical. The Carpenters harmonies were incredible. I miss her terribly. ❤️ 🎶
Two others: Eva Cassidy & Judith Durham: All three are world class vocalists. To be enjoyed and never compared!
And Karen's enunciation is impeccable
Karen to me is the best female singer because she could make you feel every emotion with her songs
We all do😭
Her voice is amazingly beautiful but also sad
some dudes would refuse to talk about the carpenters but rick knows it better! and he is so right doing so. this duo deserves to be treated well. thank you rick. ❤️
My heart still aches that Karen Carpenter left us too soon. Can you only imagine what else she would have brought to the world with her golden voice. She will forever live on for those who came of age in the 70's. Rest in Peace beautiful Lady.
I can't listen to her voice without breaking into tears. Her death was a great loss.
I was born in 1990, but my mother always played The Carpenters. Karen is my favorite singer of all time and my celebrity crush.
I always believed Karen.s voice was The Best EVER, but LUCY THOMAS is better
22:24 22:25 22:25 22:25 22:27 22:39
Its such a shame,, Cant understand anorexia.
You never confuse her voice on the radio with another singer,so distinctive,so beautiful
She is like the Kate Bush of Karen Carpenter of the Kate Bush of the....
Rumer
@William Adams
That's SO true! When me and my wife go shopping every Tuesday at Walmart they pipe music through and it's the same thing the singing is just some person yelling and it all sounds the same
100% correct. Nobody sounds like that.
Just goosebumps!
Purity. No fancy runs and vocal tricks, nothing gratuitous and show-offy just pure sustained control. Lovely vibrato and perfect pitch. No auto tune. Modern singers take note!
I agree. So many pop singers are all over the place and can’t seem to just sing the melody and bring out the beauty of the line with the harmonies. It is tiring and tedious.
She was a genuine singer, nothing artificial or put on! Truly one of a kind!
Karen had a beautiful voice, and Richard blended his talents with her perfectly. It was a rare combination ❤
@Tbone51 it started with Whitney "I only sing forte" Houston
Yeah. Purity. Such a pure comforting, heartbreaking voice. Good god what a loss and yes, she was an excellent drummer.
That woman just makes you want to cry listening to her beautiful perfect voice!! ❤
I think Karen Carpenter had a way of sounding emotive without sounding soppy or whiny. It’s emotional sounding yet authoritative at the same time. Truly rare.
Interestingly, Ella Fitzgerald was much the same and yet, was excoriated for being "emotionless", when singing!
Both Karen and Ella had supreme control of their instruments. It’s not common, it’s ethereal.
The problem with the carpenters is they had a very distinct sound they did not deviate from. Even in Goodbye to Love, a song with an electric guitar solo, it is distinctly Carpenters. Even the cover of Jambalaya,a Hank Williams song has been thoroughly Carpenterized.
It's possible they would have adopted to the changing musical preferences in the 80s, but I find that highly unlikely. You just don't change what propelled you into superstardom. Very few bands have been able to do that.
I very much hope that the multitrack tapes from their recording sessions still exist. No disrespect to Richard, but it's his instrumentation that dates their sound, not Karen's vocals. If there is a way to back Karen with more modern instrumentation, her legacy might grow.@@christo930
@@christo930 - And what is wrong with that????
I went to the same HS as Karen and Richard though they graduated a few years before me, I still clearly remember the day they came into the band room to tell our/their band teacher, Bruce Gifford, that they had signed a record contract with A&M. I still tear up hearing Karen sing. As others have noted, we lost her way too soon.
THAT is very cool!
A tale for the generations in your family ❤
So did I and they were a few years ahead of me too! Kevin Horrell here, what's your name?
AMAZING STORY & PIECE OF HISTORY! GOD BLESS YOU FOR SHARING THAT!
They got a record contract with A and M while in High school?
My dad passsed away a week ago, & while in the hospital days before he passed on, we would play the carpenters. Which was one of his all time favorite acts. While attached to a respirator, he would still respond by tapping his fingers along with the carpenters music.
Deepest condolences. Music moves souls.
❤
I lost my dad 12 years ago now. It’s tough. I’m glad your dad still felt the music until the end.
My deepest sympathies to you.
MY CONDOLENCES....... YOU WILL SEE HIM AGAIN .................. GOD BLESS YOU
Her voice was pure magic. She is my favorite female singer. Such control ❤
Unmistakable. There's lots of great female singers, but she stands alone. The first word she sings you know it's her. So beautiful.
This is absolutely true. I played my brother a rather obscure album track I was sure he had never heard before and he identified her in like one second and I'm not exaggerating.
Exactly! And not a word you have to question what it was she said. The purity was magic.❤
I’d put Anne Murray on the same level singing wise, but Karen was also an incredible musician,, rivalled the likes of Buddy Rich.
she is an Angel
@@chrisjeffrey7570Yes Anne was definitely tone and pitch perfect. Canadian Songbird
Ric I am 60 years old and I hope your younger audience will listen to more of Karen's singing she is up there with one of the most beautiful singing voices of all time
Sooooo true
I am 43 years old and I have been listening to the Carpenters since I was a kid. My grandmother of course gets full credit.
I saw a young singer on Tiktok who has a phenomenal voice covering We've Only Just Begun. Was encouraging to see the engagement. They won't be for everyone but those who understand and appreciate vocals and arrangements will hopefully pick it up.
34 year old singer here and I feel so lucky I grew up listening to Karen
❤❤❤
Hey Rick, you have to get Richard Carpenter in for an interview! He is mostly responsible for those beautiful arrangements.
Love the Channel.
Her voice is so angelic. The best way to explain her voice is pure silk, velvety, controlled, smooth, and so light and soothing. No other singer can replicate her angelic voice.
Alison Krauss is pretty special too, tho from a different style and era
But believe me, there's a cover called "Tori Holub" on RUclips that sings almost the same, without imitating, because it's her natural voice! Many people get emotional when they hear it, just check it out!
In 1971 I was leaving for Vietnam and Superstar was being played everywhere. When I was returning back to The USA in 1972, Goodbye to Love was being played everywhere. The Carpenters and their music have had a place in my heart since the beginning.
Thank you for your service ,sir.
Glad you made it back.
Thank you for your service from this wounded warrior wife and niece. ❤❤
Yes, thank you for service. Too little too late I know.
Thank you for your service seems so insufficient.
"Superstar" is my absolute favorite song from The Carpenters. This song makes my eyes well up with tears knowing she is no longer with us. Karen Carpenter is irreplaceable. There will never be another.
Written by Leon Russell.
It is by far her most iconic song she had ever sung. It will always be my #1 from the Carpenters.
@@petesawchuk Leon was an unmatched talent too.
@@EmilyTienne Without question - a rock & roll Renaissance man.
Same
One thing I loved about Karen was that you could hear every word she sang. She reminds me of those British singers like Petula Clark and Vera Lynn, who enunciated every word clearly.
EXACTLY! It's a song---music and Words!
She is in the top 5 all time female singer, she lived a tragic life not understanding her own awesome worth… she had a dominating mother and a poor body image, very sad 😢
This is a great point. I never fully appreciated this before, at least not in any articulated sense (if maybe a fuzzy intuition), but it is absolutely true!
Karen and Petula Clark were each other's fans and personal friends. Petula sang at Karen's funeral.
Frank Sinatra did this as well…enunciation was important to him.
Not only did Karen have a fantastic voice, but she was a phenomenal drummer. I saw the carpenters in 1972 or 73. It was amazing. I had never seen a woman drummer before.
I wonder if later being more to the FOREFRONT PHYSICALY.. added to her FRAGILITY...such a loss
Yes! She was phenomenal! And was a catalyst to more women picking up the sticks and learning how to play the drums. Thank you, Karen!
@@thomasfisher5742I've wondered the same. According to those who knew her well, she was painfully shy. But, she could deal with being on stage better playing her drums. She was an excellent drummer & ultimately it was a huge mistake to pull her off of the kit & push her to front the band. It's sad.
Taylor Swift WISHES she could sing and write like this.
Send this to a "Swifty" so that they can hear what actual talent sounds like.
@@FPS1200apples and oranges… taylor swift is not and never was a singer (better writer than the carpenters in my opinion tho)
Karen understood how her audience loved her deeper notes. She said, “The money’s in the basement.” Thank you, Rick, for highlighting the beauty of the Carpenter’s music.😍
Richard's professor at long beach state, frank pooler helped karen with her voice. Karen was actually a soprano and frank helped her bring out the buzz in her lower voice. My mother was one of her backup singers. I used to sit in on rehearsals as a kid.
Even a rock and roller like me would stop song surfing on the car radio when Karen's voice came on. Just pure magic. A rare rare gem. ❤️
I played rock and metal most of my musical career, and now play R&B and jazz. But The Carpenters will always be one of my favourite groups of all time. Karen's voice is just sublime and so moving.
Same. I listen primarily to metal, progressive rock, grunge, classic rock stuff. But my deserted island playlist definitely includes Carpenters and Barry Manilo.
Same here.
People don't mention how good Richard is with harmonies. And he arranged all their music
Karen's low contralto make me cry. Her clarity while maintaining the core fills the soul from top to bottom. I'm proud to have been in this generation of music.
I heard them live when they performed at my college. I was stunned that they sounded like their records. They played through Kustom amps and P.A.. That was it Their success was just taking off. After the performance, they were breaking down their own gear...no road crew. I just walked up on the stage and started talking to Karen while she was tearing down her kit. I asked her how they were able to nail the blend of those complex harmonies. She said while they were playing gigs at Disneyland, they took individual voice lessons (with the same vocal coach) on one day of the week then the whole band would have a group vocal lesson with the same coach for blending work. The result was they nailed their harmonies as polished and beautiful as the records. I learned later that Karen and Richard did all the background vocals on the records. There were six members in the live band and they all sang so I just assumed it was all of them recording the vocal background... it was that good. She was such genuinely kind musician to take the time to explain their process. A memory I'll always treasure. P.S. She was a great drummer too!
Fabulous memory 💖
Great story. A wonderful moment you'll always cherish. I'm a bit jealous! 🙂
The good ol' daze...Kustom amps and walking right up to the musicians for a chat. Wonderful!
❤
I remember Hearing her say in an Interview she was annoyed of being asked about her Hair and her dresses and never about the music. So apparently You touched the right string with Your question! Thank you for sharing that memory.
Never been my kind of music, but you CANNOT deny the mastery of her voice. Today? Too many celebrities in music, too few musicians.
Too many celebrities in music, too few musicians….. Damn, you said a mouthful! Well done!
And everything, EVERYTHING is autotuned now. Even TV performances get auto tuned before they hit the air - like Kelly Clarkson. Celine Dion was prerecorded at the Olympics. Karen was SO PURE!!
I avoided the Carpenters' music when I was young. When I finally grew up I finally realized what an incredible voice she had. Wow.
Hey, me too!! I never connected when I was younger, but I really appreciate the Carpenters now.
we were "hip rockers" and we were ashamed to admit that we liked the carpenters.
I was kinda hip (a jock) but loved A/M radio
It is definitely corny seeming and AM radio compared to something like “Sticky Fingers”. But their music was so well done that you have to respect that the Carpenters were the very best of their genre of music. As I’ve gotten older I definitely have come to appreciate that there is a time and place for everything, even over the top 70’s mellowness.
Same!
Paul Williams, one of the greatest and most underrated songwriters, of all time.
And a very distinctive voice.
"LITTLE ENIS"
I don't think he's underrated. He is very highly regarded as a lyricist. I just wonder why we have heard any of his lyrics in such a long time.
The Carpenters were that one unique group that both hippies, hard rockers and our grandparents ALL LOVED. Can't think of another that ever accomplished that much crossover appeal.
Great point. Near universal appeal. Hard to accomplish in an industry where success is often measured by being different. Having obtained that broad appeal made them different which, in turn, brought them well deserved success.
Except it was never "cool" to admit you liked them at the time.
The Beatles
John Denver has a tremendous amount of cross-over appeal.
Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass also had major overlap appeal between demographics
You hear Karen and you KNOW who it is. A voice that is timeless.
Those were truly the BEST DAYS in music history!! Songwriting, Musicianship, Vocal/Vocal Harmony, Producing, Engineering and Technology all came together!!
I have always thought that Karen was perhaps the greatest female vocalist in my lifetime. Glad to see that Rick loved her voice as well.
This is what is GREAT about Rick. While I know good music, and great vocals, when I hear them, I don't know really WHY they are great. Rick has the experience, knowledge, and vocabulary to explain it to me. I LOVE THIS CHANNEL!
"Goodbye to Love" is another song that is right up there at the top for me.
Oh ya. That guitar solo raps up the song powerfully..
And “Sing a Song”. Written for Sesame Street, but she made it her own.
Goodbye To Love is near the top of the list for me too. And it truly is a Carpenters song, written by Carpenter and Bettis, not a cover. The inclusion of the "fuzz guitar" (by Instant Joy's Tony Peluso) made that 1972 classic the very first power ballad, too.
"For All We Know" was another hit they had that Rick did not mention.
@@thomasluby1754 One of my favorites.
Superstar is one of the ten greatest ballads of the entire rock era. It's a hauntingly beautiful melody, wistful and aching, with its morose lyrics and perfect arrangement: Karen just merges into the song at every turn (and as many know she sang the verses' lyrics off a napkin in one take). Her rich alto and impeccable delivery make it seem as if Leon Russell wrote the song for her. To me it will always be the greatest Carpenters song: it holds up under every single hearing and gets you every time. A tour de force.
Agreed !
I agree.
Yes her voice in those lower ranges in this. ...second show... just the radio...most sensual tone I've heard ever, as though it was meant to me personally...any guitarist in a band who was chased by a groupie type must think more softly about her after hearing these words
And her version of This Masquerade. And “solitaire” which was written by by Neil Sedaka.
YES! Superstar is stunningly beautiful. Or perhaps, hauntingly beautiful!
Richard's arrangements were the unsung heroes of these songs, absolutely phenomenal
Absolutely. The arrangements were excellent and really improved the songs big time. I think there was a touch of genius there. Richard really knew what made a good pop record. The vocal harmonies were one of the big attractions for me.
@@daveyest Richard was brilliant. But when you are in a duo with Karen, there is only the possibility of second place. I think even Richard would admit this. Karen was one of the most perfect voices ever to move air.
@@nickmariotti4241 No second place for either. They were definitely a duo. A lot of the appeal was her great singing, but without Richard the songs wouldn’t have cut. I love her voice, but her solo album was pretty mediocre and dull as there was none of Richard’s genius in the arrangements and production.
@@daveyest No intention of denigrating Richard. As a keyboard player of far lesser talent myself, I have enormous respect for his abilities. In my opinion there was no "Carpenters" without them BOTH. It just seems to me that the gap between Karen and practically all other singers was even greater than that separating Richard from other composer/arrangers. I mean, if I might mention Richard in the same general ballpark with a Brian Wilson or a Burt Bacharach or a Jimmy Webb, I can't think of any singers anywhere nearly as close to Karen. There's really no one else in her ballpark; she's actually in a whole league, all by herself. I don't mean to say she was the "best" because that is too subjective and I don't get into saying one artist is "better" than another--we all have those we like and some more than others. I am just trying to express how extraordinary Karen was. I really can't think of anyone like her. It was not JUST her low range, her phenomenally accurate pitch, always nailing the tonal center, her immaculate phrasing, her smoothness--any ONE of those things would have made her a great talent. She had ALL of them. I know there's no way to express how apart from the rest I believe she was without it sounding like I'm putting Richard down, but that is not my intent. There was definitely a synergy there as neither was really successful without the other. You rightly mention Karen's solo album but it is also true of Richard's post-Karen career. It might be fairly said that Richard, understanding her abilities, and also being her brother, got more out of her than anyone else could have. He used her brilliantly as the primary instrument in creating the unique Carpenters sound.
Karen's loss was deeply tragic, for all of us who loved the Carpenters' art and inexpressibly more so for Richard, as he lost his blood sister and musical partner and collaborator. She was irreplaceable. I feel certain he understood this which is why he never tried to.
he cruelly exploited karen, even many years after her death, he profited from his sister's record which he did not allow to release while she lived.
I love Superstar! Her voice and range is unmatched!
Karen had one of those clear, precise and melodic voices, kind of like John Denver had, very rare these days, So beautiful, so pure.
Her voice always brings tears to my eyes immediately. Superstar kills me every time.
Me too..😢
I'm glad I'm not the only weepy one. Born in 1961, Karen was definitely my first influence.
Karen's dynamics set her apart. Not only does she swell in volume at the end of a phrase, she opens her mouth during the crescendo to alter timbre at the same time. It's engaging. It feels like she's turning her head and singing to you, personally. Not been replicated or equaled.
Oh man, that is EXACTLY what I have always said about her delivery. Like she is talking to YOU, and you intimately. It’s a combination of her timbre, the way she adjusts it, and the feeling she puts into her phrasing and timing (her dynamics.) So you have said this perfectly and analysed from the most learned perspective. I have explained this before to rubes who said she wasn’t special. The closest others came include Matt Monroe in a simple way. On a small handful of numbers, Sinatra conveyed this, to wit: “I Have Dreamed” and “The Way You Look Tonight” and a few others and he has a body of work that may be the greatest overall next to Ella’s for a vocalist in the 20th century. Do you agree? I would think we could talk about this for hours, because you are the first guy I saw define this the way I do and I am certain about it!
Eva Cassidy was the only other singer with as clear a voice or as masterfully skilled at dynamic phrasing
Wow very well mentioned,,,
Yes! The dynamic changes in We've Only Just Begun" are what make it mind and soul shaking.
We should mention that Paul Williams was one of the songwriters of many of these beautiful songs. Obviously, Karen had an amazing incomparablly beautiful voice and her brother was an excellent arraigner . It’s a beautiful compilation you have put together. Thank you for all the work you do in describing the music we grew up with.
Yea, I'm waiting for him to mention that. They didn't write any of their hits. Maybe co-wrote one or two. I agree their arrangements and performances were nice.
ASCAP president and writer of many muppet bangers like Emmet Otters Christmas Jug Band
Rick, I found you by listening to my Favorite female singer, Karen Carpenter. I Am a Huge Fan of you now! Keep bringing Amazing Videos of my favorites Artists. IslsndJ
The best part of these videos is watching Rick's absolute love of the music he is listening too. Its infectious.
YES! Loving watching his absolute joy listening to these fab songs
Karen Carpenter’s annunciation of lyrics is incredible. Every word is heard without the ‘t’s and ‘s’ getting in the way and she’s able to emphasise words, whilst doing all her other incredible dynamics.
Unlike today’s pop stars who tend to sing as they’re trying to prevent themselves from vomiting.
Karen’s voice is a particular frequency which travels deeply into one’s soul. She is harmonically precise
when rainy days starts, Rick sighs, like the girl his misses from his first or second love. like "I am NOT going to make it through this..."
His reactions are nearly as wonderful and well-stated as the music. Thank you for the passion Rick.
The older I get the more I could give a care..."The Carpenters created my favorite music"
“Merry Christmas Darling” is an absolute masterpiece. “but I can dream, and in my dreams I’m Christmasing with you” - the chord changes and melodies are so beautiful and unique, great to play on guitar 🎸
Merry Christmas Darling absolutely destroys me!
Karen is missed so much. She should be alive today. Her beautiful legendary voice and singing 🎶 will live forever. We miss you Karen. 😔
Glad to see The Carpenters getting the recognition they deserve from you.
I always liked "Superstar."
These ladies are tremendous. You really need to devote a video like this to the latest terrific vocalist we just lost: Olivia Newton - John.
I am 64 and I still listen to The Carpenters…Goodbye to Love is my favorite ❤
I am 65...metal head...I learned how to slow dance in jr high to the Carpenters and MJ.....if you have not heard this young girl you are in for a treat.....TORI HOLUB - WE'VE ONLY JUST BEGUN
Goodbye to Love is a great marriage of classic Carpenters with "fuzz" guitar. Touch of the hard rock that everyone seemed to clamor for in the '70s, but just a touch.
Me too.
Everyone always talks about how absolutely amazing Karen’s singing is, which it is SPECTACULAR! But one of my favorite parts of these songs is Richard carpenters background vocals! The ways the brother and sisters voices merge is so good
The were multi dubbing their voices to get that sound. Richard was a genius in the studio, while Karen could sing what he was trying to convey.
Her voice evokes the exact emotion of the song she is singing. She never pushes…everything sounds natural and perfect.
Yes! Never is showing off or trying to hit the diva notes. Eva Cassidy was like that. It just seems effortless.
Richard Carpenter was the arranger for The Carpenters. To my ear, their records are timeless. I still love listening to them.
❤️🎶 Karen Carpenter is an angel, my mother used to listen to her all the time when I was younger, and I told her to shut the radio off. Not realizing how much talent she had. Now my parents are gone I find myself listening to the carpenters every morning.🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
Karen’s voice strikes you in your soul. So listening to her sing while thinking of your late Mom is a wonderful way to keep your connection with your Mom going strong. 👍❤
@@JosieN-ns8rmyes thank you very much🙏🏽🎶👍🏽
Carpenter's harmony was unbelievably rich and under rated. Man, her voice always touched my heart and gave me goose bumps. All my childhood sentiments.
Please STOP using the incredibly overused word underated ! ! !
@@cattymajiv THANK YOU, it drives me bonkers. NO ONE is underrating the Carpenters' harmonies. Holy christ.
Not many vocalists can make me cry with the very sound of their voice. She is at the top of a very very short list.
As I'm sure many have already mentioned below, she was just 32 when she died. I can't imagine my childhood without her voice. So beautiful yet so melancholy. If you were a bit of a sad kid growing up in the seventies, chances are, her voice spoke directly to your heart. It sure did mine.
There was a time at high school when a few of us all flew in the face of fashion and 'came out' as Carpenters- lovers. Looking back now I realise we were all a bit broken in our own ways. Think we all heard that in Karen's voice and Richard's melodies. A clarion call for the damaged.
It's so crazy to think how when Richard and Karen started as a duo, I believe it was to promote his piano playing....him....I could be wrong, but I know the focus was not her AMAZING voice....
I love how Rick gets into music theory...."oh, there's the dominant 11..."
@@Jill_SmokeandMirrors Yes, for some reason the Carpenters in their day were seen as not cool. I guess they didn't fit the guitar band rock mold of the time, nor were they R&B, nor any other easy category. Even worse, I guess they were the sort of band your mom and grandma would like. But for me at least they were a guilty pleasure, and I now suspect for most others too. There was just no denying that voice.
Truth.
She sings with such assurance and understanding. She's not just reciting or performing a piece , but completely inhabiting the mood, melody, meaning, development and drama. At the end, you feel like you had the most warm, natural conversation, without having to do a thing yourself! I can't think of another singer who does that.
I can't hear the Carpenters without tearing up. Every time for the past 35 years; the friend that introduced me to their music took her own life and to me the two are inextricably linked
Richard Carpenter wrote all the arrangements, both the vocal/band and orchestral parts. He was the genius that painted the backdrop to Karen's phenomenal vocals.
Richard Carpenter needs to be interviewed on this show. Get him now.
@@thelouisejustYes, Yes, and YES!
Richard is still very much alive and well and Rick needs to do a full show with him.
he cruelly exploited karen, even many years after her death, he profited from his sister's record which he did not allow to release while she lived.
@@RodolfoUBRSWho told you? The media lead you into this?
@@RodolfoUBRS That is completely false. I hope he sues you.
Her drumming is great too. Fun fact: superstar was sung in one take, and she only practiced the song a few times beforehand.
One of the greatest vocal performances ever.Brings me to tears every time✌️
Heads and tails best voice I've ever heard. Clear and crisp and smooth at the ssme time. Tears flow every time I hear her incredible voice done so effortlessly. I wonder if she realized just how unique she was. Im glad to see others feel as I do about this phenomenonaly gifted human.
Don't forget Richard, her brother. He wrote, arranged, and led the music. They were a terrific team. 😻
"Close To You" by The Carpenters.
@@martycee55 I agree. Easily the most emotional love song that they wrote.
I have an uncle who was a professional local singer, and during one of his shows he talked about Karen being one of his greatest influences. He mentions how her voice will forever be unmatched and timeless, because you will never not understand a word she has ever sung in her songs. She so pure and clear. Legend.
That is such an insightful and useful way of looking at singers--you can understand every word she sings. It also makes me think of another singer 20 years later--Layne Staley. Despite all that noise and distortion, you can understand every word he sings, as well.
Dad chose Top of the World for his funeral as a tribute to my mum Not a dry eye in the house 10 years on it still brings tears to my eyes
My Daddys favorite too! It's still so hard to hear♥️
It really is a brilliant song, and so lovely to hear her sing it live, and she adds a "yee haw" at the end.
In 1973 I had the opportunity to sing with the Carpenters as one of a group of grade-school kids doing the backing vocal on their hit "Sing" at a show in my hometown. It was a huge thrill for me and my first and only touch with stardom. Of course I became a huge fan. Their music was so melodic and beautiful. Even my classical-leaning parents enjoyed it. My heart was broken when I heard Karen had passed away. Their music will always have a special place in my heart.
So glad you had the experience of performing with Rich and Karen!
Cool ,what a thrill that must have been.
How cool. You must have been in a kids' choir to get that opportunity. Sing is one of my favorite Carpenters songs because of the lyrics, tune and the children's voices. "Don't worry that it's not good enough for anyone else to hear" gives me goosebumps.
I always loved The Carpenters. Their music was a large part of my teen years. I loved their music because I am also an alto, and could sing all their songs!
Yes! Celebrate all the gorgeous Altos! Bass Clef Divas!
I got to see her in concert once. And she was pure perfection. Perfect pitch, perfect control, perfect look. She was incredibly beautiful in person, and everyone knew it. But her voice!! That was the true star of the show! It was so melodic and full. Best female voice of all time!
Wow! What an experience that must have been. So happy you were able to experience that. 💕
My Uncle D worked at A&M RECORDS HOLLYWOOD from 1969-1999.
Beginning at age 7, I would be allowed to go to work with him during my summer school breaks. I literally witnessed music history being made behind those gates and the kindness of Herb Alpert.
My own music journey playing piano and flute was heavily influenced by watching Richard and Karen LIVE at A&M.
Almost 40 years after Karen's tragic death, she is still the BEST FEMALE SINGER and nobody else can touch her vocals. Richard is still the master of composition.
" SING" 1973 is my favorite Carpenters song. Also, every song on their "Christmas Album."
Wow! What an amazing experience!!! I would have absolutely loved to be there 💜🎶🎹
Please share more! Rhonda, you were that fly on the wall that I had wished to be. Amazing. I want to know- did they sing the songs as the composer wrote them or did they make any changes during the recording sessions? Did they laugh and joke around …or more serious? Can you give more scene setting description?
What a beautiful life , and boy hood, and Muse 0f talent for music that you have had. If you're ever discouraged. Just reflect on those wonderful days. Those gifts are still you. God bless you. Gregg Oreo long Beach Ca
What an honor! ❤
Absolutely. Their two Christmas albums occupy the number one spot for me.
When I was in middle school in the 70”s, whenever I felt down or even physically sick, I would sing Top of the World to myself and I would feel better. Love her voice so much. I think Superstar is their best song.
Some of the most beautiful music ever created. Her voice was truly that of an angel, and Richard’s arrangements were beyond reproach. I never realized how much I listened to them as a kid, but I know the lyrics to nearly every song she sang. I miss her so much and am so sad that we will never hear the other lovely treasures she could have provided the world. That being said, she bestowed a rare beauty on the world and I feel blessed to have witnessed it.🙏🏼❤
Her low registry was the bomb! She has a very soothing yet haunting at the same time ,,,classic voice,,, her delivery and phrasing was the best , she’s always telling a story ❤
Classic!!!!
Yes!!! Omg I remember as a young girl trying to achieve the notes she could hit and really working at expanding my range to hit those low notes! I was born in ‘81 and my mom had Karen’s records playing all the time.
Richard was an unsung hero of the Carpenters. The combination of Karen’s soulful voice and his knowledge of instruments and how and why to use them, along with the layering of harmonies, was masterful.
I watched a documentary about the Carpenter’s and Richard became very jealous of Karen’s fame according to the doc. He is a master musician and did most of the mixing and instrumental’s. Their father got them started in music.
His arrangements were pretty much perfect for elevating each song into all it could ever hope to be. Richard's a prodigy.
Yes I don't think he gets enough accolades for his arrangements. Of course I live for Karen but Richard did the arrangements and should be praised for such. He is a musical genius for sure. @@gregscupholm254
It was my understanding that Richard did their arraignments
My understanding as well!@@debbiemeuser3778
As a terminally depressed musician, thank you for your channel. It helps me find some passion for music again. For what it's worth.
Search for Eckhart Tolle
I'm a psychologist, producer, have PTSD and grew up through the Troubles in Northern Ireland. Music is great for coping but when a super educator like Rick begins to communicate, it all becomes so inspirational and even therapueutic.
Why are you depressed?
@@andre.1984 Clinical depression doesn't usually have a reason
Praying for you... You are loved. 1 John 3:16 and John 3:16
She does one thing most beautifully that most singers struggle. Hitting the low notes in pitch and melodically. Most singers, when they do her songs raise the key.
Leon Russell said it himself, that his favorite version of his song “Superstar” was the one by Karen Carpenter.
THE purest most perfect female voice of ALL time. Perfect pitch, soothing warm tone, perfect use of vibrato. Perfection!!! Never mind the incredible production, arrangements, orchestration, and some of the most beautiful songs ever written. Absolute musical perfection overload. It does not get any better than this.
Take a look at Eva Cassidy(lost to cancer at 33) is someone not well known when she passed but could sing with anyone!
@@ratroute8238 Yes indeed.. Eva was a prodigy. I have all her recordings.
… and Anne Murray?
I am not really crazy about some of her songs but she did some songs as well as anyone could. There is a video of her and Ella Fitzgerald doing “this masquerade”. Very few People could sing on the same stage with Ella. Karen Carpenter did it well
I agree,also Anne Murray is right up there
I grew up with Carpenters music, and learned to play several of their songs. I cried when Karen died. I have never heard a female singer before or after her even come close to the beauty of her voice.
Rick, thank you for this tribute. I got to hear my first love again.
First love indeed....great years....
Barbara Streisand couldn’t tie KC’s shoes…
Her and Minnie Riperton. Both taken much too soon.
@@dorland3 "Barbara Streisand couldn’t tie KC’s shoes…"
Do we really have to turn this into a competition? How old are you?
@@tonyb9735 Lol. I’m 56. I’m sorry my comment upset you.
Her voice goes right to my heart and makes me weep and feel joy with equal intensity. NO ONE compares or comes close. You are missed Karen. 😢
The other day I was walking on downtown Vancouver and a man passed by singing "just like me, they long to be, close to you", I signed him a thumbs up and he was so happy
Listening to Rainy Days and Mondays today in the light of what Karen struggled with lends a whole deeper meaning.
I hear her voice when Every one of her songs begins and I start blubbering like a family member or favorite Animal died...then by end of every song I'm left in shock of how much feeling she could manage to project and how utterly sweet her voice IS. We are blessed to have what we do..but I'd love to hear her singing today live 💜
Top Of The World gets me that way. I absolutely long the song with her incredibly rich vocal and the wonderful arrangement, but that’s juxtaposed with me thinking about her struggles and how tragically she died. Makes for a crazy mixed bag of emotions.
I love Rick's appreciation and insight. He always brings out the best in a song that is often overlooked, even for the trained ear.
Im from a millenials era but i loved listening to Carpenters/Abba/Jim Croce/Bread/ and many more.. 70's songs.🤩
I'm a huge metalhead, I grew up with grunge and nu metal of the 90s and as soon as I discovered the Carpenters I was done.
They're one of my lifelong favorite bands of all time. Absolutely timeless music that will never get boring. I'd shower them in praise any second of the day.
You would be surprised at just how many metalheads out there like the carpenters
Check out the cover album from the 90’s “If I Were A Carpenter”. Sonic Youth’s cover of Superstar is incredible. Shonen Knife’s Top Of The World is pretty wild too.
As a j
azz singer, I can truly say this voice is beyond magnificent. Control, vibratto, pitch all combined into the angelic beauty we get to hear. Her voice sometimes makes me cry with joy. And their harmonies - wow!
Probably the purest clear voice of our times. She made it look so effortless.
I grew up with the Carpenters! I love their music to this day! Karen's voice is like no other. ❤❤
Walked down the aisle to it❣️
There’s something so powerful and simultaneously so soothing about Karen Carpenter’s voice. What a gift. Thank you for reminding us.
@Tessmage Tessera Take a look at Eva Cassidy(lost to cancer at 33) is someone not well known when she passed but could sing with anyone!
Crying through this whole video.
From the opening notes - like a familiar movie - I know what’s coming.
When Karen passed, a part of me died as well.
I cannot explain it.
But people who are emotionally moved by music will understand.
Let's give Richard some credit here. ALL the arrangements were done by him, the backing harmony vocals and his piano is all him. He was a brilliant musician in his own right.
Agree. Do you know what he did professionally after Karen died? The Carpenters were over, yet he still had all that brilliance. I heard interviews with him about the past, but never heard what he did professionally after that fame. She definitely had the better voice, but his music elevated the songs to fully rounded perfection. (IMHO)
What a star - a shy drummer who transformed into one of the most beautiful voices ever - RIP Karen C.
And she referred to herself as a drummer who sings..😉
We’ve Only Just Begun. Hands down. Perfection. Lyrically, harmony and her flawless voice.🧡
Rick does say there is little difference among their top 5 songs he mentions...its just that Close To You is the one that does it for him if he had to pick one....
Yeah with you 100%. I consider the moment where Karen sings "...and when the evening comes..." when the harmonies come in on "...smile...", I just consider that a high point of 20th century music.
Close to you is the one for me. I have trouble listening to their Christmas songs as it saddens me that she left us when she was so young.
I agree.
My wedding song. ❤
Her voice is sooo special- I really love 'Superstar'. Richard was an incredible arranger and musician. They're part of American lore in music.
The french horns in Carpenters songs always brings a nostalgic feeling that I just can't describe - it's like something out of a dream.
My first concert was the Carpenters. I was in 1st grade and this was about 1973. Mom told me we were going to see the Carpenters at Univ. of Illinois and I thought we were going to see a house being built. Great show for a 6 year old and Karen won my heart. I was crushed when she died. True story.
My alma mater!
Karen Carpenter had probably the most *pure* voice ever. So beautiful and melodic.
Every single one of these songs reminds me of when I was a kid, riding around in my Mom's '68 Ford LTD, listening to the AM radio -- this was back when WSB-AM actually had *music,* instead of news 24/7. Good memories. 🙂
Thank you thank you for giving The Carpenters attention. I've always loved The Carpenters. Heard them all through my childhood and never stopped listening. Karen's voice, Richard's piano and arrangements. Love it all! I used to sing The Carpenters to my son when he was a baby :)
My heart aches hearing this. She and Richard had it all. She slipped through our hands - The Carpenter's were so unique and they left such an impression on me and our family......RIP Karen. Peace to Richard - Rick I love what you do and how you do it......all I can say is thank you
❤🙏