Karen recorded many of her songs in a single take, including this one. She was known as Karen "One Take" Carpenter, and for me is the greatest female singer I've ever heard.
I agree! She is the greatest female singer with Whitney Houston, second imo. It's true she did some songs in one take but it's also true that she would do 40 or more takes on some songs because she was a perfectionist. That's why she re-recorded several of her earliest hits for a greatest hits lp: The Singles: 1969-1973. She thought she could sing them better. And those later recorded versions are the ones you have heard on the radio since then!
Her name is Karen Carpenter and She recorded it first. She is known by many in the music business as having the best female voice. She died at the age of 33.
Carpenters version is also a cover. Originally titled "Groupie (Superstar)", released Dec 1969, as a single, by Delaney & Bonnie (Bramlett) & Friends (with Eric Clapton-guitar, Leon Russell-piano & Rita Coolidge-backing vocals). It was also covered in 1970, with Rita singing lead (again, Leon on piano), on the Mad Dogs & Englishman live album. Original writing credit is to Bonnie Bramlett & Leon Russell. Delaney Bramlett later also gained credit & Rita Coolidge has since said she should have been credited too.
Karen did the best version, though there had been several versions done before hers. When the Carpenters version became a hit, Bette Midler took some shots at Karen Carpenter, often mocking her wholesome image. Karen claimed the jokes didn't bother her; after her death, Midler apologized in Redbook magazine, saying she often thinks of Karen.
Karen is the GOAT when it comes to female recording artists, not that Whitney, Barbra Streisand and several others wouldn't be mentioned. She could have sung the phone book and it would have been beautiful. I loved Luther too and loved his version of this song, which by the way, he was singing in honor and respect of the Carpenters original. Lots of people covered this song, but it's still the Carpenters' song for me. I'm sure you have heard many versions of A Song for You and This Masquerade, but Karen was the one that Leon Russell wanted to hear sing his songs, and her brother was an incredible arranger and piano player that doesn't get enough credit. Richard created the sounds and music and Karen gave her gifted vocals to it.
Karen was one of a kind. There will never be another like her. She had such a pure calming voice. And she was a terrific drummer. That was her passion even more than singing. Sadly we lost her so young. Thankfully we have her legacy left in her music.
Karen Carpenter had an amazing and almost haunting sound to her voice that I never get tired of hearing. I played their Christmas albums so much when my kids were growing up and I remember when they were teenagers and my daughter came to me and said she had just found out that Karen had passed away in the 80’s and she never knew that. She was as sad in the mid 2000’s as we all were when we heard the news then. Her song “Goodbye to Love” and “We’ve Only Just Begun” as also amazing. Love the reactions. Keep up the positive vibes! ❤️
@Sharona Congratulations on picking your title up first! An '80 baby, I had no idea who she was when Karen passed. I did know though how much crying my family did!
Additional shoutout to Coolio, I think he sampled this for "It Takes a Thief", possibly the scariest song/warning I ever heard about where life was headed back when.
@@rustyshackleford158 I beg your pardon ... Karen, initially, had been a drummer ... a fantastic drummer, who was coerced by her brother to sing. There ARE videos floating around of her drumming prowess. In fact, most of the videos you see where she is NOT drumming, are done that way to push her forward as a singer but, I assure you, on the studio tracks, SHE is doing the drumming. Karen Carpenter
Karen WANTED to be a drummer, but they could see that their best shot at obtaining celebrity status was through her singing. They both realized it, even a moron could have seen it.
To jump on the band wagon … Karen considered herself a drummer that sings. And sing she did. THAT VOICE! When she’s drumming she’s smiling and I love seeing that. 💔
Love Karen Carpenter. RIP. Her brother plays the piano. She was amazing. She passed away from anorexia .You should go down this rabbit hole . There is even a movie about her. Thank you for by bringing back such wonderful memories! Much love!
Her brother hated being referred to as the piano player of the Carpenters if not for his production of the songs they did they wouldn't have been as successful. Great producer, angelic voice powerful combination.
She had actually conquered the illness, but with anorexia, the damage had already been done to her heart. She had a reaction to medication, and her heart gave out.
Yes I didn’t appreciate laughing at her. She could sing like velvet. She could Play the drums while singing. They we’re extremely talented. You ought to listen to her song and video Close to you. That song is beautiful 🥰
He's entitled to his opinion of course, but Carpenters version is way better than Luther's which drags in comparison. Sorry, Luther, you were a great singer too. Maybe it does all really come down to what version you grew up on.
Karen’s voice is really one of a kind. It’s absolutely soul touching! Luther was singing Karen’s song bro! All the carpenters songs were all absolutely epic! Can’t wait to hear your next retro them. Ps Karen plays the drums in many of the songs!
I'm sorry my brother, but you got it backwards, again. That's Karen Carpenter, and Luther sang her song 🎵 But both versions are awesome, and both of them were taken from us way too soon. Thankfully their voices will live on forever ❤ 💕
This was written by the late great Leon Russell (& Bonnie Bramlett) & Karen sang it with the simple longing of a young girl left behind by the Rock star she loved. Vanilla maybe, but heartfelt & beautiful. It was a huge hit & I loved it as a kid. Jump ahead years later to Luther Vandross & yes, I loved his version too. I've got a couple of his CDs in my music collection. You're right about those connections. I grew up as a white kid in the suburbs who listened to the big British bands, Rock & Blues-rock. But I also loved all the great Motown artists. We heard ALL of that great music on the radio, we bought all those records. We didn't think about black or white, just good music. My collection has albums, tapes, CDs of everyone from The Beatles to The Temptations...Zeppelin to Smokey Robinson...Janis Joplin to Tina Turner. As for Karen Carpenter, others will fill you in on her story, one of the saddest in music history. Her beautiful contralto voice still moves people to tears. She's remembered with a lot of love by a lot of people.💙☮💙
Leon Russell wrote it and the carpenter's version is the big hit version of it, as it reached #2 on the charts in 1971... karen carpenter only 21 years old at the time, recorded it on one take, reading the lyrics off a napkin!.. Russell went on record saying that the carpenters' version was THEE best version, and even Luther Vandross who loved Karen Carpenter's version and voice and yes better than his own, recorded it as a homage to her and her brother, the carpenters....the carpenters were also the top u.s. hitmakers of the 1970's with 12 top ten hits and more songs in the top 40 and top 100...
Just to give credit where due, Leon co-wrote it. Writing credit on the original is to Bonnie Bramlett & Leon Russell. Delaney Bramlett later also gained credit & Rita Coolidge has since said she should have been credited too.
Karen has such a good voice, she needs no spice added. Her natural voice is all that is needed. She sings without effort. Just opens her mouth and the beautiful sound just comes out.
Luther was a master of covers.He made them his own.Brilliantly soulful.I saw him do this song in concert soooooo good.R.I.P.Mr.Vandross. But Karen Carpenter was one of the best.Beautiful singer. Her voice pierces your heart and soul.She and her brother Richard Carpenter gave us some beautiful music.R.I.P.Sister Karen.
Karen is widely believed to be the greatest vocalist of all time..............HUGE STARS.....she and her brother are the Carpenters. Karen sadly died in her early thirties of Anorexia............I saw them live once in Ottawa and thought she was an Angel on drums~ A major rabbit hole you may choose to go down.
Carpenters is also a cover. Original was released as a single, Dec. 1969, by Delaney & Bonnie & Friends (with Eric Clapton-guitar, Leon Russell-piano & Rita Coolidge-backing vocals). Writing credit on the original is to Bonnie Bramlett & Leon Russell. Delaney later also gained credit & Rita has since said she should have been credited too.
Alright, Van! Don't apologise for loving my favorite Carpenters song! Karen & her brother, Richard - the blond on keyboard - are 1 of the most successful pop acts of all time. Karen's voice is acclaimed as 1 of the finest in popular music. As holiday season is upon us, you may want to react to a couple of the Carpenter's Christmas songs. "Merry Christmas, Darling" & "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" are 2 of their best ones. Again, thanks so much for your insights. Oh, yeah! Forgot to mention Karen played drums, Mr. Drum Lover!
@@jerickson725 Oh, I know! Seems like ALL of the Carpenters songs are too short. They take us on a great ride, & just like at an amusement park, it's over WAY too soon! Thanks for your comment.
Karen Carpenter, (IMO) has one of the clearest, finest voices out there. I was so jealous of her coming up because I wanted to sing like her. This song so takes me back to sixth grade! You are right, she is really vanilla and I myself love funky jazzy motown and soul, but you gotta respect her pure voice-no, I never heard the Luther Vandross one, cool!
Vanilla means uninteresting. How can anyone say that about a woman who had billboard top hits, won at the Grammys, traveled all over the world on tour, and even in death, left an indelible mark.
Funny, but true story. I was a pro musician for over 25 years and once had rehearsed with Karen and Richard Carpenter in Vegas because their guitarist wasn't available. I was simply stunned by Karen. My God, what a beautiful woman and spectacular talent! Two weeks later I ran into Luther Vandross exiting a studio. He's my all time favorite vocalist. I asked him who he was into. He said to me, "Karen Carpenter is the real deal." That was enough for me...
Van, do you realize you're the first reactor to not compliment Karen Carpenter's voice? I swear, bro, I must've watched dozens of reactors listen to their songs, and every single one of them praised her voice, most of them effusively, many of them calling it one of the best voices they've ever heard. But you only said one thing about her voice in this entire reaction, and it was a borderline criticism. You said, "Her voice is so vanilla.". Hey...you're entitled to your opinion, and I appreciate honesty in reactors. But nevertheless, I'm stunned. lol
I understand what you're saying about the vanilla, Van. I have heard Luther's version, and it is lit. Examine the culture each version was sung for. Karen didn't need to add 'sauce' to have an emotional, almost spiritual impact on the listener. However, @Cosmo Kramer I don't feel that Van was saying that vanilla is not delicious, just not his first choice of flavors. His non-verbal reactions more than showed his appreciation for her talent. Rock on, Van!
Most people that have heard The Carpenters sing this have heard Luther`s version. You should be asking the other way around...the people that heard Luther sing it, have they heard Karen sing it? That`s the real question. :) Check out "Close To You"...but, they had many hits.
If this song doesn't move you emotionally to tears then you are not a human being. Leon Russell and Bonnie Bramlett wrote this song in 1969, it is about a woman who falls for a rock star, has a tryst with him, but then in a bout of delusion awaits his return, apparently falling for it when he said he loved her. "Superstar" was recorded by Karen on her first take, singing the lyrics that had been scribbled by Richard onto a napkin. It took a while for Karen to warm up to the song. "For some reason that tune didn't hit me in the beginning," she recalled in a 1981 interview. "It's the only one. Richard looked at me like I had three heads. He said: 'Are you out of your mind?' When I heard his arrangement of it I fell over, and now it's one of my favorites too." When the Carpenters version became a hit, Bette Midler took some shots at Karen Carpenter, often mocking her wholesome image. Karen claimed the jokes didn't bother her; after her death, Midler apologized in Redbook magazine, saying she often thinks of Karen. The alternative rock band Sonic Youth covered this in 1994 for the Carpenters tribute album "If I Were A Carpenter" It is a beautiful and powerful version. Karen was also an awesome Drummer.
Of course we've heard Luther's version. We watched Soul Train just like we watched American Bandstand. To me, it never mattered the skin color and who sang it, music was fantastic back in the day.
Karen Carpenter was taken from us way too soon. She was a drummer. You should check out videos of her doing that. She was happiest when playing the drums and it showed. Most beautiful voice I have ever heard. As a side note, love the shirt.
In addition to his great voice, Luther Vandross had great taste and chose a lot of great songs to cover. This song was originally recorded under the title 'Groupie (Superstar)' by Delaney & Bonnie. When the Carpenters decided to cover it they changed up some the lyrics and renamed it 'Superstar' and the single went all the way to #2 on the Billboard chart. Thanks for the reaction.
This is a good time of year to discover them. Rollingstone Magazine ranks The Carpenters' "Christmas Collection" in the top 20 of greatest Christmas It's almost like Christmas was invented for Karen Carpenter to sing about; her milk-bath vocals fit "Sleigh Ride" and "What Are You Doing New Year's Eve" like a reindeer sweater."
This may surprise you, but every artist that you named you listened to when you were young, I also listened to and I’m from Belgium. I even went to a Lou Rawls concert. Of course we all know the Luther Vandross version, it’s great too. What makes this version beautiful is not the song itself, it’s Karen’s voice! It would be nice if you would do another Carpenters song like “rainy days and Mondays” or “ we’ve only just begun.
Luther recorded this 12 years after the Carpenters released this. If fact it was a kind of homage to Karen Carpenter as his version was released months after she passed away. Good songs always return.
Carpenters were nominated for a Grammy for this performance in the "Best Instrumental Arrangement Accompanying Vocals" category in 1972. It was off their (Tan Album) "Carpenters" for which they won the Grammy in the category of "Best Pop Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group". Hard to argue with the industry on that one when you've got one of the best female vocalists of all time fronting the band. They were nominated for 5 Grammys that year, the two I just mentioned and also: Best Original Song Score Written for a Motion Picture for "Bless the Beasts and the Children". Best Engineered Recording for "Carpenters" album, and Album of the Year for "Carpenters". Prior to 1972 they were nominated for 8 Grammys for their work on their 1971 "Close to You" album: They won in the category of Best New Artist & Best Contemporary Vocal Performance by a Duo, Group or Chorus for "Close to You" (Their fellow nominees in that category were: Jackson 5 - ABC , Simon And Garfunkel - Bridge Over Troubled Water, The Beatles - Let It Be, & Chicago - Chicago.) Their other nominations included: Album of the Year, Best Engineered Album, Record of the Year, Best Instrumental Arrangement Accompanying Vocals, and for "We've Only Just Begun" received Grammy nominations for Song of the Year & Best Contemporary Song. Beyond that they received 5 more grammy nominations in subsequent years including one for "Calling Occupants of Interplanetary Craft" in 1978 in the category of Best Instrumental Arrangement Accompanying Vocals. I'm sure they would have garnered more Grammys if it weren't for Karen's untimely death in 1983 from Anorexia Nervosa - the eating disorder were she ended up starving herself to death / RIP Karen. Please check out their history, Richard's musical arrangements and Karen's vocal work are anything but vanilla.
I believe this song was written by Leon Russell who wrote great songs for other artists as well as for himself (Song For You, Masquerade etc). Karen also played drums but had such a distinct beautiful voice she ended up "frontman" so to speak. Richard Carpenter was so amazing at composition and also writing music. We lost Karen way too soon. She passed from a heart attack brought on by years of anorexia. Her death put a spotlight and name to that mental health issue. WE'VE ONLY JUST BEGUN RAINY DAYS AND MONDAYS CLOSE TO YOU
Co-written by Leon. Writing credit on the original (1969 single released by Delaney & Bonnie & Friends) is to Bonnie Bramlett & Leon Russell. Delaney Bramlett later also gained credit & Rita Coolidge has since said she should have been credited too.
Oh you found a jewel among jewels with this singer. She is a very special, incredibly talented artist... one of my all-time favorites, ever. Glad you love this song... anything by Karen Carpenter is an exceptionally beautiful song. There will never be another like her. Loved your reaction. Loved how you loved and enjoyed it so much. I did too, I was melting into it right along with you. I was thrilled to hear it again. Her voice never grows tiring to hear. I'm so happy to have gotten to witness your first reaction to this very special artist.
Just to give credit where due; Writing credit on the original (single released Dec. 1969 by Delaney & Bonnie & Friends) is to Bonnie Bramlett & Leon Russell. Delaney Bramlett later also gained credit & Rita Coolidge has since said she should have been credited too.
Karen Carpenter a golden voice unparalleled for its crisp purity. No warble just sings the words effortlessly from her heart. Gives her all to the song.
THIS is an earlier version of this one too...... Luther came later. She is awesome! Died in 1983 from anorexia. Lost an angelic voice when we lost her.
This warms my heart because the Carpenters never got their props because they weren't "cool." They were real musicians with great talent and phenomenal arranging skills. The late Billy Higgins (famous jazz drummer) used to say, "If it's actually music, people can usually hear it." Karen starved herself trying to be skinny enough for the industry execs. I was so happy when Luther covered this song.
Van my Man... This song was written by the late great singer/songwriter Leon Russell and Bonnie Bramlett back in 1970. In 1971 the Carpenters recorded their version of the song. And in 1983 Luther Van Dross cover this song and made it Platinum. That is its history. Hope this helps.
She never falters even when changing registers, Paul McCartney said she was the finest female singer in the world and for good reason, this is an astonishing talent, raw, powerful and angelic, a voice that can comfort you and if need be, bring the fire down upon you, she was...IS...such a gift, I wish she had gotten the proper help when she really needed it, I think she'd sound the same today if she were here.
There are a number of songs I went 30 YEARS not knowing I was listening to a cover of. Three that come to mind are Knock on Wood, Always Something There to Remind Me, and I Love Rock N Roll.
Karen Carpenter & Luther Vandross are without a doubt two of the greatest voices ever. The Carpenters were my mums favourite and Luther was my wifes, I’ve lost my mum and my wife but whenever I hear either of those two sing it brings both a smile and a tear, and takes me back to a better time.
The One and Only Karen Carpenter. Often imitated, never duplicated. It’s Christmas season and time for Carpenters Christmas music. I’m stunned at your under appreciation of her impeccable voice I must admit
Realize that it’s as much fun for us to connect with you about shared love of music! I know Luthers version too, but I do remember it being the Carpenters song!! Big smile 😃
My favorite Carpenters song. Takes me back when I first started listening to music as a kid. I could not go to sleep at night without hearing Superstar and Al Green Tired of being alone. Did not know Luther sang this. You made me go listen to him. Luther is awesome as always! Such great memories bro. Music brings us all together
![Megan Thee Stallion - Neva Play (feat. RM) [Official Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/TpYTyAaTRts/mqdefault.jpg)
She flat-out has the prettiest voice I have ever heard PERIOD BAR NONE
Well said my friend ! I agree 100 percent
You’re not wrong.
Silk.
Karen recorded many of her songs in a single take, including this one. She was known as Karen "One Take" Carpenter, and for me is the greatest female singer I've ever heard.
yup
Facts.
I agree! She is the greatest female singer with Whitney Houston, second imo. It's true she did some songs in one take but it's also true that she would do 40 or more takes on some songs because she was a perfectionist. That's why she re-recorded several of her earliest hits for a greatest hits lp: The Singles: 1969-1973. She thought she could sing them better. And those later recorded versions are the ones you have heard on the radio since then!
ditto!
cool
Karen Carpenter, the angel with the voice of golden honey. What a talent she was. RIP, Karen
I'm 61 yrs old and still get goosebumps when I hear her voice .
Over 40 years later and I still get them and have to fight back the tears! RIP KAREN! YOU'RE STILL THE BEST!
Her name is Karen Carpenter and She recorded it first. She is known by many in the music business as having the best female voice. She died at the age of 33.
Carpenters version is also a cover. Originally titled "Groupie (Superstar)", released Dec 1969, as a single, by Delaney & Bonnie (Bramlett) & Friends (with Eric Clapton-guitar, Leon Russell-piano & Rita Coolidge-backing vocals). It was also covered in 1970, with Rita singing lead (again, Leon on piano), on the Mad Dogs & Englishman live album. Original writing credit is to Bonnie Bramlett & Leon Russell. Delaney Bramlett later also gained credit & Rita Coolidge has since said she should have been credited too.
@@wnsafford1854 Those are long forgotten for a reason ... unfortunately.
From anorexia
Actually, she wasn't able to celebrate her 33rd birthday. Very sad.
Karen did the best version, though there had been several versions done before hers.
When the Carpenters version became a hit, Bette Midler took some shots at Karen Carpenter, often mocking her wholesome image. Karen claimed the jokes didn't bother her; after her death, Midler apologized in Redbook magazine, saying she often thinks of Karen.
Karen is the GOAT when it comes to female recording artists, not that Whitney, Barbra Streisand and several others wouldn't be mentioned. She could have sung the phone book and it would have been beautiful. I loved Luther too and loved his version of this song, which by the way, he was singing in honor and respect of the Carpenters original. Lots of people covered this song, but it's still the Carpenters' song for me. I'm sure you have heard many versions of A Song for You and This Masquerade, but Karen was the one that Leon Russell wanted to hear sing his songs, and her brother was an incredible arranger and piano player that doesn't get enough credit. Richard created the sounds and music and Karen gave her gifted vocals to it.
Luther and the Carpenters also both sang the Bacharach gem A House is Not a Home.
Absolutely
@@ThisLoveIsSweet And love the Elvis Costello version
@@wpollock1 very cool. I will check it out. I think EC did a whole album of Burt Bacharach songs.
I was gonna say that Luther's version was a tribute to Karen's version or, as you said, "in honor" of it. I also agree with everything else you said.
Karen was one of a kind. There will never be another like her. She had such a pure calming voice. And she was a terrific drummer. That was her passion even more than singing. Sadly we lost her so young. Thankfully we have her legacy left in her music.
Her music saved my life from a horrible father and childhood.
Karen owns this song. Not vanilla, just pure talent. A beautiful voice. RIP to a beautiful soul that left us too soon.
Vanilla?
That’s what they said about them in the early 70s. If that’s such a bad thing how do you explain their longevity? They are timeless!
Vanilla? We would all kill for that kind of a vanilla voice. One of the clearest purest voices you’ll ever hear
RIP Karen. One of the most beautiful voices of all time. 🙏
Luther's version was a slow-tempo "bedroom" song. This version is a "staring out the window on a rainy day while wrapped in a blanket" song.
Good description.
Perfect description of this song
Karen Carpenter had an amazing and almost haunting sound to her voice that I never get tired of hearing. I played their Christmas albums so much when my kids were growing up and I remember when they were teenagers and my daughter came to me and said she had just found out that Karen had passed away in the 80’s and she never knew that. She was as sad in the mid 2000’s as we all were when we heard the news then. Her song “Goodbye to Love” and “We’ve Only Just Begun” as also amazing. Love the reactions. Keep up the positive vibes! ❤️
@Sharona Congratulations on picking your title up first! An '80 baby, I had no idea who she was when Karen passed. I did know though how much crying my family did!
Additional shoutout to Coolio, I think he sampled this for "It Takes a Thief", possibly the scariest song/warning I ever heard about where life was headed back when.
Merry Christmas, Darling ❤️ look forward to hearing it every year.
Just in case nobody has mentioned it but . . . . . Karen was primarily A DRUMMER! She had what is probably THE BEST , most pure voice EVER!
MMM Karen was primalarily a singer, but a decent drummer too
@@rustyshackleford158 I beg your pardon ... Karen, initially, had been a drummer ... a fantastic drummer, who was coerced by her brother to sing. There ARE videos floating around of her drumming prowess. In fact, most of the videos you see where she is NOT drumming, are done that way to push her forward as a singer but, I assure you, on the studio tracks, SHE is doing the drumming. Karen Carpenter
Karen WANTED to be a drummer, but they could see that their best shot at obtaining celebrity status was through her singing. They both realized it, even a moron could have seen it.
To jump on the band wagon … Karen considered herself a drummer that sings. And sing she did. THAT VOICE! When she’s drumming she’s smiling and I love seeing that. 💔
Love Karen Carpenter. RIP. Her brother plays the piano. She was amazing. She passed away from anorexia .You should go down this rabbit hole . There is even a movie about her. Thank you for by bringing back such wonderful memories! Much love!
Her brother hated being referred to as the piano player of the Carpenters if not for his production of the songs they did they wouldn't have been as successful. Great producer, angelic voice powerful combination.
She had actually conquered the illness, but with anorexia, the damage had already been done to her heart. She had a reaction to medication, and her heart gave out.
Vanilla? No. Goofy comment. Her vocals were superb! She and Luther had different styles and that's okay. She set the bar extremely high. 😊👍
Yes I didn’t appreciate laughing at her. She could sing like velvet. She could Play the drums while singing. They we’re extremely talented. You ought to listen to her song and video Close to you. That song is beautiful 🥰
Totally agree, The purest tone of any singer, she didn't need to have runs because she could hold the key pitch perfect every time.
He's entitled to his opinion of course, but Carpenters version is way better than Luther's which drags in comparison. Sorry, Luther, you were a great singer too. Maybe it does all really come down to what version you grew up on.
I was kind of mad. I will not subscribe because of that remark.
If I said that Luther's version was chocolatey I would be called a racist! Karen sings circles around Luther.
Karen’s voice is really one of a kind. It’s absolutely soul touching! Luther was singing Karen’s song bro! All the carpenters songs were all absolutely epic! Can’t wait to hear your next retro them. Ps Karen plays the drums in many of the songs!
I'm sorry my brother, but you got it backwards, again. That's Karen Carpenter, and Luther sang her song 🎵 But both versions are awesome, and both of them were taken from us way too soon. Thankfully their voices will live on forever ❤ 💕
Also, Dolly Parton wrote "I Will Always Love You" and Whitney Houston covered it.
@@DavidSmith-pg1ob Yep, and did you know Willie Nelson wrote, then covered Patsie Clein's Crazy. Kinda cool 😎😌
Actually it wasn't Karen's song originally. It was a Delaney and Bonnie song.
@@tomward6689 Wow 👏I had no idea. Thank you 😊for that bit 🙏of knowledge 🙏and I hope you had a great day 😀😊👍
Carpenters 1971, luther 1983. These are the 2 most well known singers of the song but neither of them wrote it
This was written by the late great Leon Russell (& Bonnie Bramlett) & Karen sang it with the simple longing of a young girl left behind by the Rock star she loved. Vanilla maybe, but heartfelt & beautiful.
It was a huge hit & I loved it as a kid. Jump ahead years later to Luther Vandross & yes, I loved his version too. I've got a couple of his CDs in my music collection.
You're right about those connections. I grew up as a white kid in the suburbs who listened to the big British bands, Rock & Blues-rock. But I also loved all the great Motown artists. We heard ALL of that great music on the radio, we bought all those records. We didn't think about black or white, just good music.
My collection has albums, tapes, CDs of everyone from The Beatles to The Temptations...Zeppelin to Smokey Robinson...Janis Joplin to Tina Turner.
As for Karen Carpenter, others will fill you in on her story, one of the saddest in music history. Her beautiful contralto voice still moves people to tears. She's remembered with a lot of love by a lot of people.💙☮💙
Agree, I heard all the great music from the 50s on, black or white. Some think music was segregated then but it's simply not true.
Same!!!
Leon Russell wrote it and the carpenter's version is the big hit version of it, as it reached #2 on the charts in 1971... karen carpenter only 21 years old at the time, recorded it on one take, reading the lyrics off a napkin!.. Russell went on record saying that the carpenters' version was THEE best version, and even Luther Vandross who loved Karen Carpenter's version and voice and yes better than his own, recorded it as a homage to her and her brother, the carpenters....the carpenters were also the top u.s. hitmakers of the 1970's with 12 top ten hits and more songs in the top 40 and top 100...
Just to give credit where due, Leon co-wrote it. Writing credit on the original is to Bonnie Bramlett & Leon Russell. Delaney Bramlett later also gained credit & Rita Coolidge has since said she should have been credited too.
@@wnsafford1854 i stand corrected yes it was co-written...
Leon Russell RIP
This will always be Karen Carpenter's Song ...PERIOD!!!! 👍🏼😎🎤🎵❤️
And, she was a VERY talented drum player 👏!!
Usually it's called a drummer, lol :)
@@abdeton1899 lmao 🤣..... yeah,...... that!!😅
Luther definitely made it his own. The difference is you hear and feel the sorrow in the Carpenters version. 👍👍👍
Could be wrong but I imagine most of us have heard Luther's brilliant cover of this song. Karen did not write it, but she owns it
This gal and her brother were sooooo popular!!.... and her voice is so beautiful 😍 💗!..... smooth as silk.
Who couldn’t love this? Karen’s Angelic Voice❤️ So much pathos
I love when Farley and Spade sang this before they wrecked in “Tommy Boy”!😂
This was done way before Luther. One of the great vocal performances ever.
Karen has such a good voice, she needs no spice added. Her natural voice is all that is needed. She sings without effort. Just opens her mouth and the beautiful sound just comes out.
I love the Carpenters! Karen's voice the greatest voice of all time.
She recorded this way before Luther Vandross dreamed of singing it
Best voice EVER!
Luther was a master of covers.He made them his own.Brilliantly soulful.I saw him do this song in concert soooooo good.R.I.P.Mr.Vandross.
But Karen Carpenter was one of the best.Beautiful singer. Her voice pierces your heart and soul.She and her brother Richard Carpenter gave us some beautiful music.R.I.P.Sister Karen.
When you die and hear Karen's voice, you know you made it to Heaven.
Karen is widely believed to be the greatest vocalist of all time..............HUGE STARS.....she and her brother are the Carpenters. Karen sadly died in her early thirties of Anorexia............I saw them live once in Ottawa and thought she was an Angel on drums~ A major rabbit hole you may choose to go down.
She is the one who did it first and made it a major hit back in 71
Carpenters is also a cover. Original was released as a single, Dec. 1969, by Delaney & Bonnie & Friends (with Eric Clapton-guitar, Leon Russell-piano & Rita Coolidge-backing vocals). Writing credit on the original is to Bonnie Bramlett & Leon Russell. Delaney later also gained credit & Rita has since said she should have been credited too.
@@wnsafford1854 yeah
Alright, Van! Don't apologise for loving my favorite Carpenters song! Karen & her brother, Richard - the blond on keyboard - are 1 of the most successful pop acts of all time. Karen's voice is acclaimed as 1 of the finest in popular music. As holiday season is upon us, you may want to react to a couple of the Carpenter's Christmas songs. "Merry Christmas, Darling" & "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" are 2 of their best ones. Again, thanks so much for your insights. Oh, yeah! Forgot to mention Karen played drums, Mr. Drum Lover!
Don't forget "Christmas Waltz" when discussing their Christmas songs. It's probably my favorite, but waaaay too short!
@@jerickson725 Oh, I know! Seems like ALL of the Carpenters songs are too short. They take us on a great ride, & just like at an amusement park, it's over WAY too soon! Thanks for your comment.
You'll also like the fact Karen Carpenter was a Drummer.
John Lennon once told her she had the best female singing voice ever, she thought he was making fun of her and didn't believe him. Peace from Michigan
Karen Carpenter, (IMO) has one of the clearest, finest voices out there. I was so jealous of her coming up because I wanted to sing like her. This song so takes me back to sixth grade! You are right, she is really vanilla and I myself love funky jazzy motown and soul, but you gotta respect her pure voice-no, I never heard the Luther Vandross one, cool!
Vanilla means uninteresting.
How can anyone say that about a woman who had billboard top hits, won at the Grammys, traveled all over the world on tour, and even in death, left an indelible mark.
Funny, but true story. I was a pro musician for over 25 years and once had rehearsed with Karen and Richard Carpenter in Vegas because their guitarist wasn't available. I was simply stunned by Karen. My God, what a beautiful woman and spectacular talent!
Two weeks later I ran into Luther Vandross exiting a studio. He's my all time favorite vocalist. I asked him who he was into. He said to me, "Karen Carpenter is the real deal." That was enough for me...
Van, do you realize you're the first reactor to not compliment Karen Carpenter's voice? I swear, bro, I must've watched dozens of reactors listen to their songs, and every single one of them praised her voice, most of them effusively, many of them calling it one of the best voices they've ever heard. But you only said one thing about her voice in this entire reaction, and it was a borderline criticism. You said, "Her voice is so vanilla.". Hey...you're entitled to your opinion, and I appreciate honesty in reactors. But nevertheless, I'm stunned. lol
I understand what you're saying about the vanilla, Van. I have heard Luther's version, and it is lit. Examine the culture each version was sung for. Karen didn't need to add 'sauce' to have an emotional, almost spiritual impact on the listener. However, @Cosmo Kramer I don't feel that Van was saying that vanilla is not delicious, just not his first choice of flavors. His non-verbal reactions more than showed his appreciation for her talent. Rock on, Van!
Someone mentioned to songwriter Paul Williams that the Carpenters sound was vanilla….his response was “but what a exquisite flavor vanilla is…”
Luther threw it in a greatest hits album.
REMAKE THE GREAT SONGS.
KAREN was an emotional beast
I would clean up as a child to carpenters. It's her song
She was a beautiful singer....RIP
TOP OF THE TREE NO ONE WITH A VOICE LIKE THAT THEN , NOW OR EVER
"Close to you" by Carpenters is great. Karen is my favourite female vocalist.
Most people that have heard The Carpenters sing this have heard Luther`s version. You should be asking the other way around...the people that heard Luther sing it, have they heard Karen sing it? That`s the real question. :) Check out "Close To You"...but, they had many hits.
Karen voice has stood the test of time, 50 yrs later, it's still at the top of the list. Perfect pitch, warm and full.
There is no black or white in music. Just love and comradery! Music breaks all barriers!
If this song doesn't move you emotionally to tears then you are not a human being.
Leon Russell and Bonnie Bramlett wrote this song in 1969, it is about a woman who falls for a rock star, has a tryst with him, but then in a bout of delusion awaits his return, apparently falling for it when he said he loved her.
"Superstar" was recorded by Karen on her first take, singing the lyrics that had been scribbled by Richard onto a napkin. It took a while for Karen to warm up to the song. "For some reason that tune didn't hit me in the beginning," she recalled in a 1981 interview. "It's the only one. Richard looked at me like I had three heads. He said: 'Are you out of your mind?' When I heard his arrangement of it I fell over, and now it's one of my favorites too."
When the Carpenters version became a hit, Bette Midler took some shots at Karen Carpenter, often mocking her wholesome image. Karen claimed the jokes didn't bother her; after her death, Midler apologized in Redbook magazine, saying she often thinks of Karen.
The alternative rock band Sonic Youth covered this in 1994 for the Carpenters tribute album
"If I Were A Carpenter" It is a beautiful and powerful version.
Karen was also an awesome Drummer.
Of course we've heard Luther's version. We watched Soul Train just like we watched American Bandstand. To me, it never mattered the skin color and who sang it, music was fantastic back in the day.
Karen Carpenter was taken from us way too soon. She was a drummer. You should check out videos of her doing that. She was happiest when playing the drums and it showed. Most beautiful voice I have ever heard. As a side note, love the shirt.
She also plays drums.
In addition to his great voice, Luther Vandross had great taste and chose a lot of great songs to cover. This song was originally recorded under the title 'Groupie (Superstar)' by Delaney & Bonnie. When the Carpenters decided to cover it they changed up some the lyrics and renamed it 'Superstar' and the single went all the way to #2 on the Billboard chart. Thanks for the reaction.
"We Have Only Just Begun " 1972 my Theme for High School Graduation
Great Carpenter Song....Enjoy your journey.
This is a good time of year to discover them. Rollingstone Magazine ranks The Carpenters' "Christmas Collection" in the top 20 of greatest Christmas It's almost like Christmas was invented for Karen Carpenter to sing about; her milk-bath vocals fit "Sleigh Ride" and "What Are You Doing New Year's Eve" like a reindeer sweater."
Oh Iove The Carpenters so much . I grew up listening to them.
This was a Number 1 hit for the Carpenters. Luther's version came out 12 years later.
That moment when you see the connections - magic.
Check RAINY DAYS AND MONDAYS… where she plays drums and sing at the same time… she was amazing
This may surprise you, but every artist that you named you listened to when you were young, I also listened to and I’m from Belgium. I even went to a Lou Rawls concert. Of course we all know the Luther Vandross version, it’s great too. What makes this version beautiful is not the song itself, it’s Karen’s voice! It would be nice if you would do another Carpenters song like “rainy days and Mondays” or “ we’ve only just begun.
Thank you, thank you! Karen considered herself a drummer that could sing💖
She is my favorite singer ever.
Luther recorded this 12 years after the Carpenters released this. If fact it was a kind of homage to Karen Carpenter as his version was released months after she passed away. Good songs always return.
she is a great drummer also
Carpenters were nominated for a Grammy for this performance in the "Best Instrumental Arrangement Accompanying Vocals" category in 1972. It was off their (Tan Album) "Carpenters" for which they won the Grammy in the category of "Best Pop Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group". Hard to argue with the industry on that one when you've got one of the best female vocalists of all time fronting the band. They were nominated for 5 Grammys that year, the two I just mentioned and also: Best Original Song Score Written for a Motion Picture for "Bless the Beasts and the Children". Best Engineered Recording for "Carpenters" album, and Album of the Year for "Carpenters". Prior to 1972 they were nominated for 8 Grammys for their work on their 1971 "Close to You" album: They won in the category of Best New Artist & Best Contemporary Vocal Performance by a Duo, Group or Chorus for "Close to You" (Their fellow nominees in that category were: Jackson 5 - ABC , Simon And Garfunkel - Bridge Over Troubled Water, The Beatles - Let It Be, & Chicago - Chicago.) Their other nominations included: Album of the Year, Best Engineered Album, Record of the Year, Best Instrumental Arrangement Accompanying Vocals, and for "We've Only Just Begun" received Grammy nominations for Song of the Year & Best Contemporary Song. Beyond that they received 5 more grammy nominations in subsequent years including one for "Calling Occupants of Interplanetary Craft" in 1978 in the category of Best Instrumental Arrangement Accompanying Vocals. I'm sure they would have garnered more Grammys if it weren't for Karen's untimely death in 1983 from Anorexia Nervosa - the eating disorder were she ended up starving herself to death / RIP Karen. Please check out their history, Richard's musical arrangements and Karen's vocal work are anything but vanilla.
I believe this song was written by Leon Russell who wrote great songs for other artists as well as for himself (Song For You, Masquerade etc). Karen also played drums but had such a distinct beautiful voice she ended up "frontman" so to speak. Richard Carpenter was so amazing at composition and also writing music. We lost Karen way too soon. She passed from a heart attack brought on by years of anorexia. Her death put a spotlight and name to that mental health issue.
WE'VE ONLY JUST BEGUN
RAINY DAYS AND MONDAYS
CLOSE TO YOU
Co-written by Leon. Writing credit on the original (1969 single released by Delaney & Bonnie & Friends) is to Bonnie Bramlett & Leon Russell. Delaney Bramlett later also gained credit & Rita Coolidge has since said she should have been credited too.
Thanks for the Carpenters
Oh you found a jewel among jewels with this singer. She is a very special, incredibly talented artist... one of my all-time favorites, ever. Glad you love this song... anything by Karen Carpenter is an exceptionally beautiful song. There will never be another like her. Loved your reaction. Loved how you loved and enjoyed it so much. I did too, I was melting into it right along with you. I was thrilled to hear it again. Her voice never grows tiring to hear. I'm so happy to have gotten to witness your first reaction to this very special artist.
This song was written by Leon Russell and the Carpenters did it a couple of decades before Luther ever did it
Just to give credit where due; Writing credit on the original (single released Dec. 1969 by Delaney & Bonnie & Friends) is to Bonnie Bramlett & Leon Russell. Delaney Bramlett later also gained credit & Rita Coolidge has since said she should have been credited too.
This Masquerade a Leon Russell classic you may have heard covered by George Benson is another song Karen sings to perfection.
Karen Carpenter a golden voice unparalleled for its crisp purity. No warble just sings the words effortlessly from her heart. Gives her all to the song.
you've stepped into another deep rabbit hole with this one. enjoy the journey!
You discovered on of the best singers ever. You've been bitten. Keep listening to more Carpenters music. You will not be disappointed.
I knew the words to every song she wrote. So many great hits. They were all hits
You’ve been corrected and I second it
THIS is an earlier version of this one too...... Luther came later. She is awesome! Died in 1983 from anorexia. Lost an angelic voice when we lost her.
Every song she ever touched was forever changed.
Music is the universal language of peace and love!
Someone must have brought it up, find that drumming thing she did for TV. It was like a Prima show!
My mother's ♥️ fav 🎶🎵 The Carpenters
This warms my heart because the Carpenters never got their props because they weren't "cool." They were real musicians with great talent and phenomenal arranging skills. The late Billy Higgins (famous jazz drummer) used to say, "If it's actually music, people can usually hear it." Karen starved herself trying to be skinny enough for the industry execs. I was so happy when Luther covered this song.
Van my Man... This song was written by the late great singer/songwriter Leon Russell and Bonnie Bramlett back in 1970. In 1971 the Carpenters recorded their version of the song. And in 1983 Luther Van Dross cover this song and made it Platinum. That is its history. Hope this helps.
She never falters even when changing registers, Paul McCartney said she was the finest female singer in the world and for good reason, this is an astonishing talent, raw, powerful and angelic, a voice that can comfort you and if need be, bring the fire down upon you, she was...IS...such a gift, I wish she had gotten the proper help when she really needed it, I think she'd sound the same today if she were here.
They had a lot of great songs here I few Close to you , rainy day and Monday always get me down and we’ve only just be gone
There are a number of songs I went 30 YEARS not knowing I was listening to a cover of. Three that come to mind are Knock on Wood, Always Something There to Remind Me, and I Love Rock N Roll.
Karen Carpenter & Luther Vandross are without a doubt two of the greatest voices ever. The Carpenters were my mums favourite and Luther was my wifes, I’ve lost my mum and my wife but whenever I hear either of those two sing it brings both a smile and a tear, and takes me back to a better time.
The One and Only Karen Carpenter. Often imitated, never duplicated. It’s Christmas season and time for Carpenters Christmas music. I’m stunned at your under appreciation of her impeccable voice I must admit
You’re where you are because of your heart,it shows.
This and Solitaire are my two favorite Carpenter songs.
Luther was singing her song.
Beautiful music touches us all. That’s how you now all gods children are meant to be happy and love one another.
amazing voice amazing song and arrangement and Karens voice will live forever because its perfect beautiful and timeless
Like Paul Williams one said, paraphrasing, yes the Carpenters are "vanilla" but isn't vanilla an exquisite flavor.
Thanks for inspiring me to bring out more Luther. Love him…it’s been a long time. He is gone too soon. Carpenter’s are classic. More Please! 😊
SHE IS A DRUMMER TOO VAN! CHECK HER OUT!
Realize that it’s as much fun for us to connect with you about shared love of music! I know Luthers version too, but I do remember it being the Carpenters song!! Big smile 😃
My favorite Carpenters song. Takes me back when I first started listening to music as a kid. I could not go to sleep at night without hearing Superstar and Al Green Tired of being alone. Did not know Luther sang this. You made me go listen to him. Luther is awesome as always! Such great memories bro. Music brings us all together
Voice of an angel.
Actually, Luther sang a Carpenters song!
That Dolly Parton song was one that she wrote called I will always love you and Whitney did it for her movie the Bodyguard