agreed... countless singers, but very very few VOCALISTS and then you have the epitome of a vocalist and storyteller in karen carpenter's voice...a voice of 2 generations..ultimate vocalist who sang TO THE LISTENER NOT AT THEM...also a very rare gift was her incredible diction and enunciation, the best i've ever heard from any male or female.
And, 3.5 octave range, though she lived in the lower registers. There was a 'playfulness' to her voice down there ("Top of the World," and "Kind of a Hush") and an almost haunting clarity, where she sounds like she's singing directly into your ears. True artist in every way.
You're the one guy who puts themselves in the small "frame" and the artist in the large frame of the reaction video. That wins you a subscriber. Well done.
I AGREE........he's also a very talented drummer........he needs to stop second guessing himself........he's spot on......one of the best "reactors" out there. Really hoping he gets his 'BIG' break soon!!!!!!
Paul Williams wrote this song. He had a set back professionally and his mom was staying with him (he had invited her to live with him in LA and he was going to give her the moon!) She was mumbling and he asked her what she said. She answered “talking to myself and feeling old”. The rest is history.
Best female voice ever. This is one of my favorites. Karen didn’t write. However, her brother Richard said she could take a song and make you believe she lived it.
she was THEE ultimate singer who sang TO YOU NOT AT YOU.... even her brother stated her voice was "phono-genic".. and herb albert said it sounded like she was sitting in your lap and singing only to you... that is what makes her that monumental great VOCALIST she was/is as opposed to just being a singer..
@@richardbailey1295 While Richard Carpenter was a mega talented, musical virtuoso, he didn’t write this song and didn’t write most of their other songs either. His interest lay more in arranging and interpreting other people’s songs with his own lush harmonies and intricate orchestrations.
Besides what everyone has said about Karen’s amazing vocal talent, her brother Richard is the reason their songs had such amazing harmonies and arrangements. He doesn’t get enough credit for creating the sound of The Carpenters.
Their sound was achieved by a layering technique in which thier voices are layered over and over on the sound track. Their sound is ageless. Karen's voice was one for the ages.
"Dubbing" was something pretty much discovered by Les Paul and Mary Ford. Originally, the technique was not widely used and sort of became lost in recording studios. Richard revived the technique to his and Karen's advantage...so began the Carpenter sound. Part of the Carpenters musical history includes their time in choirs, and with their group "Spectrum". When "Spectrum" disbanded, Richard told Karen, they would just have to do the backing vocals themselves. Les Paul's technique of studio over dubbing, became the solution.
I grew up with the Carpenters. Have loved them for over 40 years. It's very refreshing to see a young person who appreciates these music gems. You're the real deal bro. Love ya man.
I also feel grateful for young as well as old, but especially young people give their reaction. No matter what kind of music you like, theres only one Karen.
Karen Carpenter was incredibly gifted but she was not a songwriter. This song was written by Paul Williams and Roger Nichols. In terms of playing instruments, I think a lot of fans today underestimate just how rare it was for a female to not only be a drummer but to drum and be the lead singer at the same time. It is still rare today but was just unheard of in the 70's. And she always considered herself as a drummer who also sings rather than as a singer who can also play the drums.
You do know she didn't play the drums on this recording..Famed session drummer Hal Blaine (A member of Record Producer Phil Spector's "Wall of Sound", later known as the "Wrecking Crew" ) is the drummer here...Not to belittle her drumming skills, and although she was very capable, she was smart enough to understand that it was her voice that was going to sell records, and handed the drumming part over to someone who was a professional session player..Blaine even complimented her skills, as a drummer. Said she had great timing.
@@sjd5750 You do know that she played the drums every time the song was performed live? You do realize that Hal Blaine didn't travel around dressed in drag impersonating Karen Carpenter? You do realize that you really didn't need to be dickhead with your comment?
I'm only 53 and a Metal/Hard Rock fan. Karen has ALWAYS been one of my favorite singers. Such control, range, pitch. And did it all looking like it was nothing at all.
It’s great to see that Karen and The Carpenters have a whole new generation of people who love their music. It makes her challenging life so meaningful. Great reaction and insightful commentary. Thanks
With Karen, I would listen to her if she sang "elevator" music!! You can also find acapella of her music on youtube. "Merry Christmas Darling"....that would make you tear up! She's the only singer that I have a HUGE smile yet tear up when she sings knowing she's gone. Almost 40 years since her passing and I still mourn when she sings.
Unlike most female vocalists, Karen mostly sang with a 'chest' voice, rather than a 'head' voice. "Head voice" vs "chest voice" are terms used to describe ways of singing ("singing from the diaphragm") describes support, not voice). A "chest voice" is in your lower register, and it involves using your vocal cords in a way to produce lower notes. The "head voice" is created by changing the way you are using your vocal cords, so that you end up with higher notes. The "passagio" is the place in your voice where you need to switch from one way of singing to the other in order to produce those notes. She had a true 4 octave range even though she rarely used it. As for having a four-octave range, that's about two more octaves than most singers ever use. Karen didn't use her upper range nearly as much as the lower because she didn't sound nearly as distinctive in her upper range. You can recognize her voice instantly when you hear the opening phrase of "Goodbye to Love," but had she recorded something two octaves higher than that you probably would have to listen for a minute to figure out who was singing.
Thank you for that information. I think that now explains the reason for the Carpenters album entitled "Passage". I always thought it was a bit of a quirky album, but I think you just explained it for me. I'll have to listen to it again...today. In the book "Little Girl Blue" written by Randy Schmidt....it is reported that Karen discovered her lower voice about age 16. She said that before that she sang in a higher voice and didn't really like it. Later Karen would acknowledge "the money's in the basement...."
yeah...and Richard arranged specifically for her vocal range, considering she was a contralto. A phenomenal pairing of a gifted voice and genius arranging.
the carpenters, richard and karen, were the top u.s. hitmakers of the 1970's... 12 top 10 all time pop classics and many more that also charted.. she was a world class drummer, he a world class pianist and arranged all their songs, she sang lead, he sang back-up and they did ALL of the background vocals and harmonies themselves using a "dubbing" technique laying their songs at different pitches and ranges recorded together... then and now her voice is considered one of if not THEE greatest female pop voice of love and romance songs ever.. surely the most pure, richest, intimate, warm, beautiful female voice ever..
The theory talent in the Carpenters was the brother. He arranged all of their music to showcase her talents, her voice and the drums. He also made sure any who accompanied them were a perfect fit for them. He usually accompanied her on the piano and had perfect harmony with her.
Little Altar Boy...absolutely stunning. The Carpenters Christmas Portrait is my favorite Carpenters album. (I don't care what time of year....) Another gorgeous holiday song is on their "Old Fashion Christmas" album. "What are you doing New Years Eve"....? Absolutely beautiful, and Karen as usual...impeccable.
I loved her so much as a little kid and was absolutely stunned when she passed. I’m so thrilled that another generation of people is discovering one of the best female singers and drummers who ever lived ❤️. The song was actually written by Paul Williams, but he really understood Karen and her struggles. Paul Williams once said that he’d wished Karen had battled substance abuse like he did, instead of what she battled, because what he had was easier to recover from. Pretty insightful. She made every song her own. Awesome reaction
When this song was first released in 1971 Karen and Richard were flying high. The events that would lead to her all to soon passing were not yet on the horizon. She was happily still drumming and in her element. Though not the writer, she certainly put her stamp on this song. Enjoy her artistry. For the likes of the legendary Karen Carpenter, will never come again. Thankfully we still have hers and Richards songs. Terrific reaction WR. Keep up the fine work, RNB
The song was written by two of the best writers of the twentieth century. Paul Williams and Roger Nichols. Paul wrote some of my favorite Muppets songs like "Rainbow Connection" and "I'm Going To Go Back There Some Day." I reached out to him a couple years ago to seek licensing for Back There on a CD I was producing. He emailed me back the same day and couldn't have been nicer. Roger and Paul were favored writers of the Carpenters. They wrote "We've Only Just Begun", which was originally for a bank commercial. They wrote "Out In The Country' for Three Dog Night. They were a powerhouse. Karen made this one her own. That's what the great ones can do.
The reason you are feeling that Karen Carpenter wrote the song is why she is one of the greatest female voices ever... her gift of phrasing and style makes the listen feel like she is singing just to you..... btw the harmonizing on their recordings were all actually achieved by Karen and Richard overdubbing their own voices in 4 part harmonies
@JackBauer...Karen and Richard did all the background harmonies in the studio recordings.... this video is not actually live but a performance of the studio recording with the entire band.... however in concert or live performances the band does the background vocals
Karen passed away on a Friday. Her funeral was on Monday, and it was raining. That is such a heart breaking thought! Rest in the greatest PEACE, BEAUTIFUL KAREN 💔💐🙏
Really respect and appreciate your reactions and comments on this tremendously talented duo. Thank you so much for not PAUSING and interrupting the flow. Yes, Karens story is a very sad story. Such a beautiful and talented young lady. Being a drummer yourself you must appreciate how difficult it is to play and sing at the same time. She stays pitch perfect and doesn't miss a beat. AND MAKES IT LOOK EASY! Tho I had noticed her health declining, I was stunned and heartbroken when I heard she passed away.
"We've Only Just Begun" has been performed at weddings, also, please consider "For All We Know", Bless the Beasts and the Children", Touch Me When We're Dancing", "Only Yesterday", Superstar", Top of the World"
greatest female vocalist who sang TO YOU NOT AT YOU and greatest storyteller, plenty of singers around, but TRUE all time great vocalist and storytellers are few and far between, that is what makes her in my opinion the greatest modern female "pop" voice of romance and love songs of all time... looking for love, finding love, and losing love...
One of the things I love about this song is the line toward the end ". . what I feel has come and gone before . . ."which says that she's gonna get through it. There are some of her fans who almost seem to like to wallow in the tragedy of her passing. The Karen who sings ". . what I feel has come and gone before . . " is resilient Karen Carpenter and I love her even more.
The song was actually written by Paul Williams and Roger Nichols in 1971 for the Carpenters. It never mattered who wrote for them. Karen made everything her own.
The lyrics to this song -- and lots of others -- was written by Paul Williams. The music was composed by Roger Nichols. Karen Carpenter was a one of a kind talent. Miss her so much.
Great reaction. I don't know if you listen to Christmas music, but the Carpenters have a great Christmas album. They also have two Christmas specials 1977 & 1978 both on RUclips at this time. And there are some videos where someone has edited the corny skits out from the specials and just has the songs. I know it isn't everyone thing, but I enjoy them because grew up watching variety shows and specials.
Karen was controlled (I believe, from birth, by the forceful personalities in her life -- her mother, brother, and later, her abusive husband). Too much of this kind of toxic dynamic goes on in families everywhere. I can speak to this from my own lifetime experience with the same eating disorder. This is not a matter of "wanting to be thin," but needing at least ONE area of our life that cannot be controlled by another. After much soul-searching, reading, godly counsel, and my Heavenly Father's faithfulness towards me (as I placed complete trust in Him), this "issue" no longer had power over me -- though I did have to go NO CONTACT with my abusers (and toxic family members). By the way, I would highly recommend David Phelps to you and this channel :)
She was my first celeb crush, back in '69, I was 12 when they hit the charts, awesome singer, amazing drummer, and to this day..........still my favourite female singer.
Not here for long enough but regardless of the unfortunate problems that made her unhappy, what a legacy to leave the world in these stupidly complex troubled times. We need this music more than ever today from a time when thngs were far less complicated. Wonderful compositions and blazing talent, while Karen's voice will echo around the world forever.
In 1973, Karen Carpenter seemed to me to be the most beautiful woman in the world! I didn't know it at the the time, but although she was quite beautiful, I think it was her voice that got to me. It was like she was singing just for me personally. She wasn't just singing, she was baring her soul. It all felt very different, somehow... More real than just somebody belting out notes. Brilliant artist!
She always sang with such feeling. It pulls a person in. Its almost like she radiated gentleness. And hearing it now & knowing what she went through makes it more emotional for people when they listen to it. Of course her amazing voice and her brother Richard's talent makes the music stand out. They were highly underrated. I would imagine she is at peace now.
2 of my very favorite voices are Karen Carpenter and Elvis, both are phenomenal even though different types of songs. Karen Carpenters voice is like liquid gold.
Karen put some emotion into this song, and gave it that human feel - something you don't hear much today. Karen got treatment for her anorexia but so little was known about it at the time, the specialists weren't successful in helping her.
Paul Williams wrote this song. He wrote many songs in the 70s. This old lady wants you to look him up! How could he be so young and write such meaningful songs?
We all loved her back in The Day and now the younger generations are falling in love with her too. ❤️❤️❤️. It's wonderful. We lost her too soon but young people are keeping her alive for all of us. 💋💋💋
I had the good fortune to work for the Carpenters attys in Century City, and they were one of our top clients. Karen lived just down the street on Avenue of the Stars
Nice poignant review. Karen was a lovely soul who gave us her beautiful voice and songs. She s so missed and was a big part of my early life.Probably the greatest female singer in my lifetime. What a beautiful yet sad legacy she left us.
Karen and her brother were highly musically talented. That all came crashing down when a reporter in the news paper criticized their music and called her “that chubby girl” ... after that she took it too seriously. She developed belemia/anorexia nervosa which eventually led to her early death.
The worst part is she was by no means "chubby", but I think it might have been the dowdy, conservative clothes she wore in the beginning, thanks to the fact their parents were managing them. Their mother was always very critical of Karen, because in her eyes Richard was the more talented of the two. Karen was pretty shy and didn't like becoming the focus of the group, but they kept pushing her out to the front so she would end up drumming less. These factors set Karen up for huge self-esteem issues.
The Carpenters first album was OFFERING ( TICKET TO RIDE ). Karen played the drum tracks on that album but the future albums primary drummer was Hal Blaine session player.
You should check out her drum solo’s on YT, you see a completely different side to her where she is just blissfully happy playing the drums and smiling the whole way through. It’s a joy to watch and listen to, she was so talented.
Karen was remarkable and a drummer too! Very cool. Really loving u choosing some deep cuts instead of the songs everyone is doin. Thoroughly enjoying your breakdowns. Thanks for another insightful reaction.
Karen, with the voice of an angel, that could touch the hearer's soul. Paul Williams, who wrote the lyrics to this song, said, "Then an angel sang my song, and changed my life forever," when he commented on Karen's voice. He was so correct.
One of the first articles written about them talked about Richard and his chubby sister Karen. That started the ball rolling. They also took her from behind the drums where she was very comfortable to out in front where she was very uncomfortable. Her mother and Richard were both extremely controlling and critical. The only thing she felt she could control about herself was what went in her mouth. She was actually on the road to recovery when her heart just gave out. Purely natural God given voice of an angel! Please listen to A Song For You!
Hi buddy. Great reaction. Just to let you know, Karen wasn't a songwriter but was a great singer, my favorite. Paul Williams and Roger Nichols wrote it. Great song.
Its crazy how touched one gets by her voice and their harmonies. The context of Karens destiny enhance this further. So tragical. A further perspective frm me personally comes from trying to help my daughter with a similar diagnose. Also great to see that you give her the respect and acknowledgement that I think she deserves especially as a singer but also as a drummer. Thank you!
Her story was a sad one.You can't help but wonder if she had done something different would she still be here.But she left us something so beautiful. I get so much from their songs and the stories they tell us. She suffered ,but she left a legacy that will never be repeated.R.I.P. Karen.
It is scary to realise that because Richard's and Karen's talents were SO UNIQUE , they might not have made it on such a grand scale in the music business without each other to lean on and be inspired by. 😮😮😮😮 As we all know there have been so many uniquely talented people who have slipped between the cracks in the music bizz. 😮😮
Karens's voice without any doubt, as a premier Woman singer had the key to unlock my soul in ways I never find with other singers. Male or Female. She had a way to bring you in to the feeling she wanted to the song she was singing. Silky, Velvet, and in a lower register to sooth any light anxiety (wrong term) an upper level might bring.
I appreciate that you play the whole song, then give your reaction. From what I understand, many artists will stop such reactions and they get removed. I like it the way you do it.
There are good singers, great singers and then there is Karen Carpenter's voice. Pure gold.
agreed... countless singers, but very very few VOCALISTS and then you have the epitome of a vocalist and storyteller in karen carpenter's voice...a voice of 2 generations..ultimate vocalist who sang TO THE LISTENER NOT AT THEM...also a very rare gift was her incredible diction and enunciation, the best i've ever heard from any male or female.
And, 3.5 octave range, though she lived in the lower registers. There was a 'playfulness' to her voice down there ("Top of the World," and "Kind of a Hush") and an almost haunting clarity, where she sounds like she's singing directly into your ears. True artist in every way.
If you ever wondered what an Angel sounds like, this is IT!
Yes. She was one of a kind. Karen's was such a sad story. Nice reaction.
Also a BEAST of a drummer
You're the one guy who puts themselves in the small "frame" and the artist in the large frame of the reaction video. That wins you a subscriber. Well done.
Amen to that...I came here to say just that.
I AGREE........he's also a very talented drummer........he needs to stop second guessing himself........he's spot on......one of the best "reactors" out there. Really hoping he gets his 'BIG' break soon!!!!!!
Adding my voice to the agreement!
Yes!
Yep I subscribed for the said reasons bro
One of the most beautiful voices in the history of music. It's a shame that so many of these great artists are truly tortured souls.
I think the audience destroy them. The pressure must be so high
Paul Williams wrote this song. He had a set back professionally and his mom was staying with him (he had invited her to live with him in LA and he was going to give her the moon!) She was mumbling and he asked her what she said. She answered “talking to myself and feeling old”. The rest is history.
Don't forget Roger Nichols. He and Paul were a true writing team.
Best female voice ever. This is one of my favorites. Karen didn’t write. However, her brother Richard said she could take a song and make you believe she lived it.
she was THEE ultimate singer who sang TO YOU NOT AT YOU.... even her brother stated her voice was "phono-genic".. and herb albert said it sounded like she was sitting in your lap and singing only to you... that is what makes her that monumental great VOCALIST she was/is as opposed to just being a singer..
I'd wager he wrote that song about her.
@@richardbailey1295 While Richard Carpenter was a mega talented, musical virtuoso, he didn’t write this song and didn’t write most of their other songs either. His interest lay more in arranging and interpreting other people’s songs with his own lush harmonies and intricate orchestrations.
@@kconrad5893 I Stand Corrected....wires crossed.
Her singing is effortless and beautiful. Harmonies are so smooth. It’s not easy to play drums and to be a lead singer. Pure talent on full display.
Besides what everyone has said about Karen’s amazing vocal talent, her brother Richard is the reason their songs had such amazing harmonies and arrangements. He doesn’t get enough credit for creating the sound of The Carpenters.
Their sound was achieved by a layering technique in which thier voices are layered over and over on the sound track. Their sound is ageless. Karen's voice was one for the ages.
"Dubbing" was something pretty much discovered by Les Paul and Mary Ford.
Originally, the technique was not widely used and sort of became lost in recording studios.
Richard revived the technique to his and Karen's advantage...so began the Carpenter sound.
Part of the Carpenters musical history includes their time in choirs, and with their group "Spectrum".
When "Spectrum" disbanded, Richard told Karen, they would just have to do the backing vocals themselves.
Les Paul's technique of studio over dubbing, became the solution.
I grew up with the Carpenters. Have loved them for over 40 years. It's very refreshing to see a young person who appreciates these music gems. You're the real deal bro. Love ya man.
Exactly!
I also feel grateful for young as well as old, but especially young people give their reaction. No matter what kind of music you like, theres only one Karen.
Karen Carpenter was incredibly gifted but she was not a songwriter. This song was written by Paul Williams and Roger Nichols. In terms of playing instruments, I think a lot of fans today underestimate just how rare it was for a female to not only be a drummer but to drum and be the lead singer at the same time. It is still rare today but was just unheard of in the 70's. And she always considered herself as a drummer who also sings rather than as a singer who can also play the drums.
You do know she didn't play the drums on this recording..Famed session drummer Hal Blaine (A member of Record Producer Phil Spector's "Wall of Sound", later known as the "Wrecking Crew" ) is the drummer here...Not to belittle her drumming skills, and although she was very capable, she was smart enough to understand that it was her voice that was going to sell records, and handed the drumming part over to someone who was a professional session player..Blaine even complimented her skills, as a drummer. Said she had great timing.
@@sjd5750 You do know that she played the drums every time the song was performed live? You do realize that Hal Blaine didn't travel around dressed in drag impersonating Karen Carpenter? You do realize that you really didn't need to be dickhead with your comment?
Not here, idiot..It's Hal Blaine. It's overdubbed. Now go sit in the corner, and STFU. No one wants to hear from you.
@@SaltyPirate71 you do know that Hal Blaine is a superior drummer to Karen and he drummed for quite a few recordings?
@@albertweedsteinthethuggeni7797 I'm very aware of who he is.
I'm only 53 and a Metal/Hard Rock fan. Karen has ALWAYS been one of my favorite singers. Such control, range, pitch. And did it all looking like it was nothing at all.
Karen was a phenomenal artist with a golden voice. Her passing at such an early age was a great loss to all of us who knew her back then.
It’s great to see that Karen and The Carpenters have a whole new generation of people who love their music. It makes her challenging life so meaningful. Great reaction and insightful commentary. Thanks
Their songs remind me so very much of my childhood, such amazing times back then.
Beautiful music, actual talent...something rare with today's artist
With Karen, I would listen to her if she sang "elevator" music!! You can also find acapella of her music on youtube. "Merry Christmas Darling"....that would make you tear up! She's the only singer that I have a HUGE smile yet tear up when she sings knowing she's gone. Almost 40 years since her passing and I still mourn when she sings.
Me too.
Me, too! So very well said!
Unlike most female vocalists, Karen mostly sang with a 'chest' voice, rather than a 'head' voice. "Head voice" vs "chest voice" are terms used to describe ways of singing ("singing from the diaphragm") describes support, not voice). A "chest voice" is in your lower register, and it involves using your vocal cords in a way to produce lower notes. The "head voice" is created by changing the way you are using your vocal cords, so that you end up with higher notes. The "passagio" is the place in your voice where you need to switch from one way of singing to the other in order to produce those notes.
She had a true 4 octave range even though she rarely used it. As for having a four-octave range, that's about two more octaves than most singers ever use. Karen didn't use her upper range nearly as much as the lower because she didn't sound nearly as distinctive in her upper range. You can recognize her voice instantly when you hear the opening phrase of "Goodbye to Love," but had she recorded something two octaves higher than that you probably would have to listen for a minute to figure out who was singing.
Thank you for that information.
I think that now explains the reason for the Carpenters album entitled "Passage".
I always thought it was a bit of a quirky album, but I think you just explained it for me.
I'll have to listen to it again...today.
In the book "Little Girl Blue" written by Randy Schmidt....it is reported that Karen discovered her lower voice about age 16.
She said that before that she sang in a higher voice and didn't really like it.
Later Karen would acknowledge "the money's in the basement...."
Actually, she only had a range of 3 octaves - but still more than most...
yeah...and Richard arranged specifically for her vocal range, considering she was a contralto. A phenomenal pairing of a gifted voice and genius arranging.
I just love this woman's voice. So pure.
the carpenters, richard and karen, were the top u.s. hitmakers of the 1970's... 12 top 10 all time pop classics and many more that also charted.. she was a world class drummer, he a world class pianist and arranged all their songs, she sang lead, he sang back-up and they did ALL of the background vocals and harmonies themselves using a "dubbing" technique laying their songs at different pitches and ranges recorded together... then and now her voice is considered one of if not THEE greatest female pop voice of love and romance songs ever.. surely the most pure, richest, intimate, warm, beautiful female voice ever..
The theory talent in the Carpenters was the brother. He arranged all of their music to showcase her talents, her voice and the drums. He also made sure any who accompanied them were a perfect fit for them. He usually accompanied her on the piano and had perfect harmony with her.
superstar should be your next one by them.
Their holiday album "Christmas Portrait" is a gem.
Little Altar Boy...absolutely stunning.
The Carpenters Christmas Portrait is my favorite Carpenters album.
(I don't care what time of year....)
Another gorgeous holiday song is on their "Old Fashion Christmas" album.
"What are you doing New Years Eve"....?
Absolutely beautiful, and Karen as usual...impeccable.
I loved her so much as a little kid and was absolutely stunned when she passed.
I’m so thrilled that another generation of people is discovering one of the best female singers and drummers who ever lived ❤️.
The song was actually written by Paul Williams, but he really understood Karen and her struggles. Paul Williams once said that he’d wished Karen had battled substance abuse like he did, instead of what she battled, because what he had was easier to recover from. Pretty insightful.
She made every song her own.
Awesome reaction
Karen's life could not live up to the absolute perfection of her voice. What a loss when she passed. Absolute brilliance.
She had the voice of an angel.
When this song was first released in 1971 Karen and Richard were flying high. The events that would lead to her all to soon passing were not yet on the horizon. She was happily still drumming and in her element. Though not the writer, she certainly put her stamp on this song. Enjoy her artistry. For the likes of the legendary Karen Carpenter, will never come again. Thankfully we still have hers and Richards songs. Terrific reaction WR. Keep up the fine work, RNB
The song was written by two of the best writers of the twentieth century. Paul Williams and Roger Nichols. Paul wrote some of my favorite Muppets songs like "Rainbow Connection" and "I'm Going To Go Back There Some Day." I reached out to him a couple years ago to seek licensing for Back There on a CD I was producing. He emailed me back the same day and couldn't have been nicer. Roger and Paul were favored writers of the Carpenters. They wrote "We've Only Just Begun", which was originally for a bank commercial. They wrote "Out In The Country' for Three Dog Night. They were a powerhouse. Karen made this one her own. That's what the great ones can do.
The music never overpowers her. It wouldn't dare.
The reason you are feeling that Karen Carpenter wrote the song is why she is one of the greatest female voices ever... her gift of phrasing and style makes the listen feel like she is singing just to you..... btw the harmonizing on their recordings were all actually achieved by Karen and Richard overdubbing their own voices in 4 part harmonies
@JackBauer...Karen and Richard did all the background harmonies in the studio recordings.... this video is not actually live but a performance of the studio recording with the entire band.... however in concert or live performances the band does the background vocals
Hey her ranking is no. 1 in the 70s n still rank the top. No one has that kind of angelic voice.
Her voice is so incredible 💕
What can I say incredible voice!!!and those harmonies wow!!
Karen passed away on a Friday. Her funeral was on Monday, and it was raining. That is such a heart breaking thought! Rest in the greatest PEACE, BEAUTIFUL KAREN
💔💐🙏
Her voice is pure,clear, and always perfect pitch. Touches your heart and soul.
Really respect and appreciate your reactions and comments on this tremendously talented duo. Thank you so much for not PAUSING and interrupting the flow.
Yes, Karens story is a very sad story. Such a beautiful and talented young lady. Being a drummer yourself you must appreciate how difficult it is to play and sing at the same time. She stays pitch perfect and doesn't miss a beat. AND MAKES IT LOOK EASY!
Tho I had noticed her health declining, I was stunned and heartbroken when I heard she passed away.
Karen had an one of a kind voice and beautiful eyes👍🔥
To be able to do those drum fills and still have that kind of voice control can't be easy.
"We've Only Just Begun" has been performed at weddings, also, please consider "For All We Know", Bless the Beasts and the Children", Touch Me When We're Dancing", "Only Yesterday", Superstar", Top of the World"
greatest female vocalist who sang TO YOU NOT AT YOU and greatest storyteller, plenty of singers around, but TRUE all time great vocalist and storytellers are few and far between, that is what makes her in my opinion the greatest modern female "pop" voice of romance and love songs of all time... looking for love, finding love, and losing love...
Such a natural and beautiful voice. We were blessed to have her,even for a short while. Thank you Karen r i p
One of the things I love about this song is the line toward the end ". . what I feel has come and gone before . . ."which says that she's gonna get through it. There are some of her fans who almost seem to like to wallow in the tragedy of her passing. The Karen who sings ". . what I feel has come and gone before . . " is resilient Karen Carpenter and I love her even more.
I love how you can get it even though it’s three generations between you. You have a good soul.
Her brother in the group had to have been so devastated at her battle with ED and death. So very sad. Her voice is amazing
The song was actually written by Paul Williams and Roger Nichols in 1971 for the Carpenters. It never mattered who wrote for them. Karen made everything her own.
The lyrics to this song -- and lots of others -- was written by Paul Williams. The music was composed by Roger Nichols. Karen Carpenter was a one of a kind talent. Miss her so much.
Great reaction. I don't know if you listen to Christmas music, but the Carpenters have a great Christmas album. They also have two Christmas specials 1977 & 1978 both on RUclips at this time. And there are some videos where someone has edited the corny skits out from the specials and just has the songs. I know it isn't everyone thing, but I enjoy them because grew up watching variety shows and specials.
Karen was controlled (I believe, from birth, by the forceful personalities in her life -- her mother, brother, and later, her abusive husband). Too much of this kind of toxic dynamic goes on in families everywhere. I can speak to this from my own lifetime experience with the same eating disorder. This is not a matter of "wanting to be thin," but needing at least ONE area of our life that cannot be controlled by another. After much soul-searching, reading, godly counsel, and my Heavenly Father's faithfulness towards me (as I placed complete trust in Him), this "issue" no longer had power over me -- though I did have to go NO CONTACT with my abusers (and toxic family members).
By the way, I would highly recommend David Phelps to you and this channel :)
Thank you for appreciating what I've loved since the 70's and what I've missed since her passing. 🙏🙏
Your comments after the video are wonderful, empathic and sympathetic. The world needs more of that.
Great reaction. Carpenters are sister and brother, Richard (Piano) and Karen. Please React "Carpenters Only Yesterday"
Wonderful Reaction. Pls put some other Carpenters Songs on your bucket list:
•One More Time•
•Nowhere Man•
•Hideaway•
•Sandy•
She was my first celeb crush, back in '69, I was 12 when they hit the charts, awesome singer, amazing drummer, and to this day..........still my favourite female singer.
There are several videos of Karen doing drum solo's, those are AWESOME, she always considered her self a drummer that sang.
My favorite female singer for those melancoly moments late at night.. "SOLTAIRE" MUST LISTEN...LUV THE REACTION
Love your reaction ,you are a beautiful sensitive soul .
Just love Karen. Miss her so much. So glad you like their music. Try Superstar.
May I request This Masquerade by them - it will sweep you away.
It's amazing, taking them back to their jazz roots....
Jambalaya too
Wow what a great cover. Thanks for the suggestion.
Karen Carpenter had one of the most beautiful voices I have ever heard. I am glad you are appreciating her as well. Thank you for the great reaction!
Not here for long enough but regardless of the unfortunate problems that made her unhappy, what a legacy to leave the world in these stupidly complex troubled times. We need this music more than ever today from a time when thngs were far less complicated. Wonderful compositions and blazing talent, while Karen's voice will echo around the world forever.
In 1973, Karen Carpenter seemed to me to be the most beautiful woman in the world! I didn't know it at the the time, but although she was quite beautiful, I think it was her voice that got to me. It was like she was singing just for me personally. She wasn't just singing, she was baring her soul. It all felt very different, somehow... More real than just somebody belting out notes. Brilliant artist!
This perfect song by an exquisite, unrivaled singer was released April 23, 1971.
She always sang with such feeling. It pulls a person in. Its almost like she radiated gentleness. And hearing it now & knowing what she went through makes it more emotional for people when they listen to it. Of course her amazing voice and her brother Richard's talent makes the music stand out. They were highly underrated. I would imagine she is at peace now.
2 of my very favorite voices are Karen Carpenter and Elvis, both are phenomenal even though different types of songs. Karen Carpenters voice is like liquid gold.
Karen put some emotion into this song, and gave it that human feel - something you don't hear much today. Karen got treatment for her anorexia but so little was known about it at the time, the specialists weren't successful in helping her.
Pretty is a perfect adjective to describe their harmonies. She was incredible and so was Richard.
Paul Williams wrote this song. He wrote many songs in the 70s. This old lady wants you to look him up! How could he be so young and write such meaningful songs?
We all loved her back in The Day and now the younger generations are falling in love with her too. ❤️❤️❤️. It's wonderful. We lost her too soon but young people are keeping her alive for all of us. 💋💋💋
One of the all time great voices and one of the saddest stories.
I had the good fortune to work for the Carpenters attys in Century City, and they were one of our top clients. Karen lived just down the street on Avenue of the Stars
Nice poignant review. Karen was a lovely soul who gave us her beautiful voice and songs. She s so missed and was a big part of my early life.Probably the greatest female singer in my lifetime. What a beautiful yet sad legacy she left us.
their songs used to play on the radio all the time -- gives me the chills you love them now as we did then
I love your reactions!!! I like that you wait until the end, and that you listen to such a good mix. And yes, that you appreciate The Carpenters.
Karen and her brother were highly musically talented. That all came crashing down when a reporter in the news paper criticized their music and called her “that chubby girl” ... after that she took it too seriously. She developed belemia/anorexia nervosa which eventually led to her early death.
The worst part is she was by no means "chubby", but I think it might have been the dowdy, conservative clothes she wore in the beginning, thanks to the fact their parents were managing them. Their mother was always very critical of Karen, because in her eyes Richard was the more talented of the two. Karen was pretty shy and didn't like becoming the focus of the group, but they kept pushing her out to the front so she would end up drumming less. These factors set Karen up for huge self-esteem issues.
@@Wungolioth Breaks my heart. Been thru ED’s and the overly critical mom. I understand her. There was no help back then for eating disorders.
The Carpenters first album was OFFERING ( TICKET TO RIDE ). Karen played the drum tracks on that album but the future albums primary drummer was Hal Blaine session player.
Her voice melts you like butter...
You should check out her drum solo’s on YT, you see a completely different side to her where she is just blissfully happy playing the drums and smiling the whole way through. It’s a joy to watch and listen to, she was so talented.
Karen Carpenter a Vocal Music Master and her Brother Richard both Virtuoso Musicians💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜
Karen was remarkable and a drummer too! Very cool.
Really loving u choosing some deep cuts instead of the songs everyone is doin.
Thoroughly enjoying your breakdowns. Thanks for another insightful reaction.
I remember seeing them in concert back in the 70s.
Lucky
Karen, with the voice of an angel, that could touch the hearer's soul. Paul Williams, who wrote the lyrics to this song, said, "Then an angel sang my song, and changed my life forever," when he commented on Karen's voice. He was so correct.
One of the first articles written about them talked about Richard and his chubby sister Karen. That started the ball rolling. They also took her from behind the drums where she was very comfortable to out in front where she was very uncomfortable. Her mother and Richard were both extremely controlling and critical. The only thing she felt she could control about herself was what went in her mouth. She was actually on the road to recovery when her heart just gave out. Purely natural God given voice of an angel! Please listen to A Song For You!
Just discovered your channel and really enjoyed your thoughtful comments, and I think you have excellent taste.
Superstar is her best. She has so many wonderful songs.
Hi buddy. Great reaction. Just to let you know, Karen wasn't a songwriter but was a great singer, my favorite. Paul Williams and Roger Nichols wrote it. Great song.
I had a crush on Karen when I was 12 years old, such a beautiful voice.RIP sweetheart.
Its crazy how touched one gets by her voice and their harmonies. The context of Karens destiny enhance this further. So tragical. A further perspective frm me personally comes from trying to help my daughter with a similar diagnose. Also great to see that you give her the respect and acknowledgement that I think she deserves especially as a singer but also as a drummer. Thank you!
I really really love Angelina Jordan she's the next, "Super Star " but Keren Carpenter, will always be the best 👌
Great analysis. Very thoughtful and kind. Thank you for your response.
Her story was a sad one.You can't help but wonder if she had done something different would she still be here.But she left us something so beautiful.
I get so much from their songs and the stories they tell us.
She suffered ,but she left a legacy that will never be repeated.R.I.P. Karen.
It is scary to realise that because Richard's and Karen's talents were SO UNIQUE , they might not have made it on such a grand scale in the music business without each other to lean on and be inspired by. 😮😮😮😮 As we all know there have been so many uniquely talented people who have slipped between the cracks in the music bizz. 😮😮
Karens's voice without any doubt, as a premier Woman singer had the key to unlock my soul in ways I never find with other singers. Male or Female. She had a way to bring you in to the feeling she wanted to the song she was singing. Silky, Velvet, and in a lower register to sooth any light anxiety (wrong term) an upper level might bring.
I appreciate that you play the whole song, then give your reaction. From what I understand, many artists will stop such reactions and they get removed. I like it the way you do it.
I grew up listening to the Carpenters. Karen Carpenter had a voice of an angel.
The voice of an angel. Point blank
I recommend their cover of Ticket to Ride and I know I need to be in love along with her drum medley. Thanks for adding them to your playlist.
Absolutely need to do the cover of Ticket To Ride! It’s a totally different feel than The Beatles original.
Known as "One take Karen"! She knew those songs inside and out. It didn't take her long in the studio.
Listen to 'Goodbye to Love' - amazing song and acknowledged as one of the very first power ballads.
I think this is my Fav. by them. Paul Williams (Little Enos in Smokey and the Bandit) wrote this song and "We've only just Begun"
Welcome aboard! The Voice of an Angel.
Here’s one not a common request
Dancin in the Moonlight
King Harvest
It's a marvelous time for a Moon Dance!: ruclips.net/video/dN8B0ZLiRck/видео.html
Depeche Mode...people are people