Richard Carpenter said it best: “If you say you don’t like our music that is fair but if you say it’s BAD music, I’m sorry, you’re just wrong” ❤️❤️ They were both geniuses.
I've never been a Carpenters fan and I did disdain their music as a hard rocking stoner. That was a form of stoned snobbery and I know that now after being delivered from that dead-end lifestyle(PTL). My Carpenters connection is with their Christmas album. Selections from it are a must in my Christmas Playlist. However, if any of their music comes on a Playlist or the radio, it serves to take me back to the time before drugs entered my life & makes me nostalgic about my early teens. Also makes me sad to think of the premature ending of poor Karen's earthly journey. I know that Richard was right, their music wasn't bad music. My grandmother loved it.
Yes, her voice was so pure! Would have loved her singing even without any musical accompaniment but her brother Richard's musical talent was equal to her singing... an amazing combination!!
Karen Carpenter's crystal clear, purely emotional voice is possibly the best in rock/pop history. Not flashy, just emotionally gripping. Really nothing else like it.
I remember that phenomenon of people that thought they were “ too cool” for the music genre like Carpenters. It became more apparent each year during my youth that they were not the ones to hang out with and turned out to be a terrible influence at many times. I had the ability to appreciate a wide range of genres. Trust your instincts and your heart. Those critics killed that talented innocent woman.
Definitely Karen Carpenter. However, I wouldn't classify their music as rock & roll, but rather pop. When I was in college, The Carpenters were scheduled to perform. Sadly many students complained that they didn't want their sugar-coated music. They wanted more hard rock performers. Ticket sales were dismal, so The Carpenters canceled. When I was young, I was torn between liking them and thinking that they were something my parents liked. I couldn't have that!
@@deathmetaldouglas69 It's only YOUR opinion that the music is bad, and what would You know about it? Being "deathmetaldouglas" you've limited yourself. Music is universal, and that means ALL MUSIC.
I never understood why so many people have a problem with wholesomeness, I find it refreshing. Love the Carpenters, always did. If Karen had lived lived, can you imagine how many records they might have broken.
Their “wholesomeness” was a sham. They both succumbed to very unwholesome lifestyles, and their image kept them from getting help. But I love the Carpenters. Wholesome? No. They were talented professionals.
Not exactly "wholesome" no...there was a purity though & their music was later called "softcore"...and there was an amazing 1994 tribute album called "If I Were a Carpenter" with 90s alt-rock bands covering Carpenters songs, like Sonic Youth, Redd Kross, Shonen Knife, Babes in Toyland & more...their music had this undeniable "something" that spoke to these underground alt-rock/alt-pop bands & artists...
Karen had her issues, and Richard was a qualude addict, so they weren't exactly squeaky clean. Karen's story behind the scenes is mostly tragic, from her extreme shyness to her failed marriage to people taking advantage of her to her eating disorders.
How does a 21 year old singer sing "Talking to myself and feeling old" and make it sound genuine? Her gift is that her voice never sounded false when she was singing any line. She connected to the words so well. There are a lot of female singers who can sing with exuberance. Singing with power and fireworks galore. She never needed to overstress herself. Her singing just flowed out of her like hot chocolate. So sweet and pure and warm. Why is it that it seems the best things in life are limited. We needed more of her singing but it ran out. What a shame.
You make the classic mistake non musicians make when listening to rock music which is overthinking lyrics. This is not a testimonial at a church baptismal ceremony where someone says they found Jesus nor is it a politician running for office stating qualifications for the office. Creatively the songwriter and vocalist singing the song are conveying an emotion using the sentiment of the words to make it come to life. They want the listener to feel something that the song is conveying and when you sense the melancholy Karen is singing about you get the point of the song. For example, the Ohio Players sang about "Fire" in a massive 70's hit but were not arguing for an actual fire. They were expressing the passion felt for a particular woman. It's the emotion most of the time in rock music that is the goal of the song and less frequently the literal message of the lyrics.
When you are 21 and you realize your childhood is over, you do feel old, even though your adult life is still ahead of you. As the decades of your life pass and memories become more distant, you realize you are never old until your dead. My mom died in January at 92 and 2 months. She never complained about feeling old, even when she couldn't see well (Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)), ate almost nothing (she weighed 70 pounds), and could barely move. She wanted to keep living, but her body didn't.
I am a black 64 year old man and I have always loved the Carpenters. Karen and Richard are the best. My sister and I have always loved soft rock and the Carpenters were a major part of it. My wife of 44 years nor my sons never learned to love them as I do. My sister died in 2007 so every time I listen to the Carpenters I think of her. Thank you for the video.
I'm 51 and whilst I obviously knew of her, I didn't realise just how pitch perfect she sang. Plus I also never realised that she could shred a drum kit - and sing at the same time!
nice - so many people put themselves in a box when it comes to music i grew up in the 60/70s - graduated HS in 77 - i listened to everything - rock, pop, prog, metal, R&B, country - you name it if it was good - it was good - never cared about the genre
I met Richard Carpenter in 1985 while taking a music marketing class at UCLA taught by the editor of Billboard magazine. He arranged a tour of A&M records and lo and behold there was Richard in the studio where he and Karen recorded all their hits. He was the nicest guy in the world and shared some great stories but you could still feel his sadness of losing Karen. Still one of my great memories.
Their abiding sibling love was one of the things that made them special. I think she sang lead mainly because Richard and John Bettis wanted it; she considered herself a drummer first and last. (You can see in clips that the thing that lights her up the most is playing drums.)
There was a lot of rock snobbery in the 70s and 80s that looked down on “clean” groups and music that sounded good without having to blow out your amps.
She has a good voice but could have lost some of her ugly "hiccups/slurs" coming off words at the end of phrases. I'd have to go through their songs to find them, but most people should know what I mean.
Karen Carpenter was also voted the best rock drummer in 1975. Rest in peace Karen you blessed the world with your beautiful voice that will never be forgotten
I was 13 when I bought my first single record: The Carpenters' Close to You. Until I saw the date in your post, I didn't recall that Karen died the day before my birthday 13 years later.
Like JFK & MLK I remember exactly where I was when KFRC announced it. Karen’s death still seems sadder to me. And little did we know one of the first social media provoked deaths.
I graduated from college on Feb. 4, 1983 after the '82 fall semester. The college actually held a smaller winter graduation ceremony. The news of Karen's death was all over the news that morning as my parents and I got ready for the graduation service and the almost 90 minute drive to the college. The day was supposed to be a celebration of my greatest accomplishment to that point in my life but all I could think about the entire day was Karen's death. I was heartbroken and remain heartbroken to this day.
I always loved the Carpenters, and hated the way the critics treated them. She tried so hard to be what other's wanted, and still be true to herself, it was pretty heartbreaking. I was a 'clean' kid during the 70's, no alcohol, drugs, etc, and appreciated their image
@@karinberryman2009 So true. Many not still here today (granted, now probably in later middle age, I'm 62) to enjoy later years as a result. Some dying quite painfully, I dare say.
Carpenters were my first concert, in 1974. (I went alone, since they were not considered cool.) They used backup tracks, since it was just the two of them, but Karen played drums. Most do not realize it, but they were not really a pop act. They were polished jazz musicians; it informed Karen's phrasing, and Richard's composing. Their music is very sophisticated, in an unpretentious way.
According to her brother Richard, being forced to the front of the stage to sing at the microphone and denied the ability to sit at the drums played a large role in her eating disorder. It was the only thing she had complete control over in her life.
Indeed, sometimes almost literally otherworldly. Have you ever heard ‘Calling Occupants of Interplanetary Craft’? It’s from their ‘Passage’ album. The video is here on youtube.
When I was a Radio DJ, I couldn’t tell you how many thousand times I’ve played that song. My opinion of it has varied throughout my former career. But the whole 40-ish years of that, I was thankful that the station (whichever station it was) had its transmitter at a location some distance from the studio. Why? Because just in case there WERE aliens landing near town, that situation made it so the station’s air signal (what you actually picked up on your radio, which CAN be located if you know how) was always at least across town from where I WAS! Just in case they were hostile (or just don’t like Carpenters music) when they aimed whatever at the source of that signal… IT WOULDN’T BE THE SAME PLACE I WAS!!.
@@edryba4867I was working in Top 40 and AOR radio a few years later and that song never came up in the gold category, as I can remember anyway. I remember playing it at least once, but don’t remember why. It’s not really a big favorite of mine, just quirky and intriguing. My overall opinion of the Carpenters is that they brought life and beauty to otherwise drab and boring pop songs. If we didn’t have Karen’s lilting vocals the songs mostly wouldn’t be worth listening to; they’d be totally forgotten by now if they’d been performed by anyone else, with only a few exceptions like ‘Stop Mr Postman’. I very much wish Karen had lived a lot longer, obviously because her death in youth was tragic but also because the loss to the American musical universe was incalculable. I wonder what other kinds of music she might have given us in later years. My favorite of all is Karen’s version of ‘Don’t Cry For Me, Argentina’, and one cannot listen to her flawless and definitive performance without wondering why she didn’t have a full career doing nothing but Broadway. She was as good as anyone there, now or then. Perhaps she couldn’t act, I don’t know, but she sings ‘…Argentina’ better than anyone I’ve ever heard!
The Professor is one of the truly genuinely nice guys on RUclips. He revealed his vulnerability he endured and how the Carpenters helped him heal. Prof, thank you for what you bring to this community!
Music has a way of answering questions for us. As a 18yo was fighting constantly with my father when Cat Stevens brought out Father and Son. It helped me make some sense of what was happening. Dad died suddenly 3 years later and this song always brings a tear. I loved the Carpenters' music - so much of it resonated then, but more so now.
Yes. The Professor is knowledgeable and well connected, and interviews some of the greatest (Brian Wilson, Ann Wilson), yet remains open and humble. This channel is an oasis for me in troubled times, socially and personally.
You ever see a big fluffy white cloud against a blue sky? It's not blocking the sun, but it's near enough that the sun tinges the edge with gold, orange, and red. Her voice sounds like that. Angelic.
And it was well recorded. They had 19 singles in a row that charted in the top 50 and most were in the top 20. People may say they didn't like them, but they did and always will.
I was stationed overseas in the Army when Karen passed away. I sat in my barracks room and cried. I loved her voice and how the Carpenters music made me feel growing up! Thanks for this.
If you have the opportunity, I would highly recommend a visit to her tomb in LA. Its a beautiful place and it was almost a spiritual experience for me. Lots of people have been there and left flowers and I did the same myself.
Patty-I will be 74 in a few months. I loved Karen's voice because she was one of the few female vocalists with whom I could sing. I wasn't blessed with a beautiful soprano voice. No, I had and still have a 2nd Alto voice. Their music always made me feel better. I have so many memories attached yo their music.
I was in my 30s in the 1970s and loved the Carpenters. I loved the song "Close to You. " I would try to sing it to my hubby, who I loved so much. He died in the 1990s. I listen to the song and cry like a baby!!
The very first time I heard Rainy Days and Mondays, I was a kid in L.A. I literally stopped , listened,, and thought to myself, "That is the most beautiful singing voice I will ever hear." I still think that is true.
@@themeanhornet1070 I was just watching Phantom! Paul had such a massive talent. Could work in any genre. And he works well with Muppets! I’m always pleasantly surprised when I see his body of work. Love Paul Williams!
Yes, he wrote Old Fashioned Love Song. Three Dog Night recorded it. Rainbow Connection for the muppets. Paul Williams has wrote some hits. He’s a talented songwriter.
I met Paul Williams in 1977 when he opened the East County Preforming Arts Center in El Cajon, Ca. Then again last year at Comic Con in Arkansas. He was such a kind man who listened to me fan girl out.
The Carpenters lived down our street, and my brothers went to school with them in the Morris Cove section of New Haven before moving to Downey. They're Connecticut's pride and joy!! No one has a voice like Karen❤
"Claire de la Fuente" has almost the same voice like Karen C....Listen to one of her songs..."Sayang" she's the Filipino version of Karen Carpenter and she's also a famous during the 70's in the Philippines
I was in hospital when Karen died in Feb 83. The hospital radio station played so many of The Carpenters hits over the next few days. I knew their music growing up but that experience took my admiration to another level ever since. Rest In Peace Karen, your voice will live on for eternity.
"Rainy Days and Mondays" when it segues into "Goodbye to Love" gets me emotionally every time. I always loved The Carpenters because Karen's voice was so beautiful and mesmerizing.
Some of her songs are sad, but not the majority of them; many are wistful or happy: "We've Only Just Begun", "(They Long to Be) Close to You", "Merry Christmas, Darling", "For All We Know", and "Top of the World", to name a few. But happy or sad, hearing Karen Carpenter sing never disappoints.
Agree but to me even in the upbeat songs, there is something unspoken in Karen's voice... another layer that gives it depth and melancholy. I can't really describe it, but I don't just hear "happy."
My favorite female voice of all time. She has touched my soul for years, however, I was like you back in the day, and didn’t know what to think of them. But I was converted and absolutely love their music now. This is coming from a 70s heavy metal man.
Yeah, I went through a hating phase when I was young. I found them a bit too saccharine back in the 70s, but in the end her incredibly expressive voice won me over. Yes her voice is perfect technically, but it's the deep emotion she conveys that really moves me.
I am EXACTLY there with you on this one. My two favorite male singers are Robert Plant and Jon Anderson. My two favorite female singers are Karen Carpenter and Elaine "Spanky" McFarlane. Spanky had those pipes, and Karen made you feel like she was right there in the room with you.
As a teenage boy in the 70's there weren't too many things less cool than admitting that you liked the Carpenters. It was a sure fire one way ticket to teenage hell! However I remember seeing them on a TV show doing 'Close to You' and I was hooked. I loved Karen from that first moment. She was pretty and of course her voice just melted me into a puddle. Now, over 50 years later her voice still feels like velvet to my soul. Absolutely one of the two or three best female singers of all time....possibly THE best. It's such a tragedy that she never knew how special she was and how many hearts she touched. RIP Karen.
i'm 64 - and 99% agree with your statement - the 1% is that i think she absolutely is/was the best female singer of all time - her voice was so pure and emotive...
For me, only two other singers are in the same angelic voice category as Karen C and have the instant ability to stop me in my tracks and choke me up, that would be Eva Cassidy and Selina Quintanilla, both of whom also died just when they were getting started. It's often impossible to make it through the first verse of one of their songs without feeling overwhelmed. It's a reminder to me that angels never seem to last long in this hell we're in. Amy Winehouse is another example but I can usually make it all the way through one of her songs without being emotionally obliterated. But not always.
I was a little boy when this song came out. It was raining and my mother had picked me up at school for some reason. Since it was raining, I knew my mother wouldn't let me go outside and play. Raining Days and Mondays came on the radio and when it said "they use to call the blues" I didn't know what that meant. I asked my mother to explain it and that is when I learned what blues was. I knew the feeling, but didn't know what to call it. At that moment I could relate to the song. Every time I hear that song it takes me back to that day. It was brings back happy sad days. You have to pay your dues if you want to sing the blues. Karen's voice will always be timeless. Great Video.
I’m 63 and when the Carpenters come on the radio, I’m back in my room singing at the top of my lungs. I know every word of almost every song. Always loved their music so much. Thank you for this episode, so nostalgic❤
Still heartbroken over Karen's shortened life.... and what could've been. What a voice! She proved you don't have to hit those high soprano notes to be an awesome singer. I drive by the Carpenter Performing Arts Center at Cal State Long Beach almost daily...
So many superstars of the sixties and seventies that died so young, that they took musical blessings to the grave we old people/all people will never tickle our ear drums!! Karen could hit the high notes as well as the lows. She was one of the 4+ octave range singers.
I mourned so much when she died..I had had one opportunity to see them in 1972or 3 when they came to Fort Worth, but my parents would not allow me to go with my church youth group. My heart was broken.
I was 5 yrs old when my eldest brother got married. I was their flower girl & the song that was sung as it was for so many in 1970, We've Only Just Begun! Every time I hear it this many years later, I always think of them!! After 35 years of marriage, 5 children & 2 grandchildren, we lost my sister in law to cancer. It was devastating for my brother, all of us! They now have 12 grandchildren & there's not a day that goes by that I don't think of her & when the Carpenters come on the memories flood!! She loved them & we love her!! Thanks for this, it warmed my heart hearing some of the back story to this song & all of the songs Karen sang that will always bring joy & a smile!!!
Ditto, it was played at my wedding whilst we were signing papers in the vestry, back in April 1973. The lyrics are so fitting, now my husband of many years has passed, it is a song that never fails to stir up emotions.
Not one of my favorites but I did sing it at my nephew's wedding along with Paul Stookey's wedding song at the request of the bride. They are still married 40-some years later so I guess I did OK.
I was 7 years old when "Close to You" was released & the lyrics about Angels getting together to put dust in your hair generated some wild images in my mind. Mental music videos.
I spoke with Richard when I ran into him at Macy’s in Downey. It was the early 1990’s. We talked about Karen. His voice crackled with sad emotion. I left our conversation in tears. Even to this day, when I hear a Carpenter’s song, I go back to that day and can feel his sadness.
_Thanks for sharing that story. That was certainly a lucky interaction._ *_Richard & Karen Carpenter came from a good, loving, & supportive family. It's such a shame that Karen was never lucky enough to have her very own loving/supportive family. She deserved SO much better. I think she would've loved being a mother & would've excelled at it._* _It's good that Richard was able to move on from her death & become a loving father/husband. 👍_
Karen was such a pure soul, her beautiful voice, it made it excruciating to lose her, because nobody deserved to live more than Karen Carpenter. Nobody.
I grew up in the 60's and 70's and the Carpenters were a big part of my early love of music. Karen Carpenter was huge back then, amazing voice and a great drummer.
I was a Top 40 Radio disc jockey in Northern Indiana in the early 1970s. My date was a recently graduated high school cheerleader. She convinced me to drive to the Notre Dam Convocation Center in South to see the National Cheerleader Finals. Halfway through the competition, the judges took a break and a band set-up to play. I hadn't heard of them before but absolutely fell in love with the female's voice. We moved up and stood directly in front, trying to find her. To my utter amazement, it was the drumner. That's when I fell in love with Karen Carpenter 😍 💕
And she was neither a drummer who could sing, nor a singer who played drums. She was among the greatest drummers of a couple generations AND she was a world-class singer.
I’m 65. I can still remember being completely memorized by her voice in early 70’s while at the same time listening to the ‘you could admit to publicly’ rock groups. She was definitely my first secret crush. I wore out that 1973 remix album. One of my favorite tracks was a Beatles cover song “Ticket to Ride”. Richard’s arrangements brought out the best of her angelic voice. Musical genius
I’ve watched many of your videos, Adam. I’m much older than you (I’m 66) and I love your deep appreciation for music. I was moved by you related briefly the demise of your marriage. I went through the same thing after 26 years of marriage. Like you music was a source of healing for a very long and painful season. You’re a good soul, Adam. Keep up the good work!
64 - and i can relate - my first marriage ended after 12 years and 2 sons - the Professor's story brought those memories to the forefront. 2nd marriage 24 years in November - 200% better than the first. Glad you and the Professor both survived. 🙏
@krd1209 *_Oh wow. I'm so sorry for your loss, sir. Thanks for sharing your story... but I must admit, your story really saddened me. It stirred up some teary-eyed emotions in me (& I'm a middle-aged guy who doesn't cry all that often)._* _Anyway, it's hard to come up with some appropriate/comforting words (because 'words' just seem to fall short in respect to the tragedy you are enduring)... so, I'm sorry if I'm struggling here with these words a bit. Overall, I pray that time will heal your painful wounds. Carry on as best as you can... I'm sure it's what she would have wanted you to do (until you see her again one day)._ *Stay strong & take care of yourself (& good luck)! Things **_WILL_** get better!*
i remember those days when radio could have been called Bacharach and who and Close to You hinted at the vocal chops that would flood the radio when the Carpenter's released their next album - think you will enjoy this performance - the world's greatest cover band, but more than that, Leonid & Friends - Ksenia Buzina's version of Superstar - ruclips.net/video/JhWrggrJ20I/видео.html - - - Chicago ? - ruclips.net/video/9_torOTK5qc/видео.html - - - Steely Dan ? - ruclips.net/video/P_8aZZ9d_EA/видео.html
You just named my two favourite female singers of the 70s.Yes,there were,and still are,plenty of great vocalists out there,but no other voices could pull emotions out of you like Karen and Linda.
I was born in 72’ and grew up listening to the Carpenters because my Grandma always listened to them and I loved their songs and would sing all their songs along with her . Awesome memories. RIP Karen RIP Grandma ❤️
We've seen a lot of singers come and go, each special in their own way, but Karen Carpenter stood alone. Her voice really felt like it came from heaven and God was just sharing.
Mom and dad took us to the Missouri state fair about ‘68, ‘69, and the Carpenters were on fire. After Bobby Goldsboro, they came out and Karen was on the drums! I was like, “WHAT?” What a dream come true that was. I’m still heartbroken when I think of how she passed. We lost a national treasure.
You're one of the lucky ones who saw them early in their career when Karen was still singing from behind her drums. Before they made the tragic mistake of taking her out of her "comfort zone" and pushing her out front to lead the band.
You mean the Missouri State Fair in Sedalia? I think it was in 1971 because I was there and remember hearing Karen singing Close To You. They blasted it over the loud speakers to the whole Fairgrounds. I'm pretty sure it was in 1971.
@@davidhedges7186 I cannot dispute your account of the event. Due to certain activities in the 1970’s my memory banks, much like those of Will Robinson’s robot on “Lost In Space”, are heavily corroded.
@@davidhedges7186That tracks. '68-69 would be too early (Carpenters' first recordings as such came out in '69), but 1970 was their breakout year and in '71 they were peaking...
As someone who enjoys both Led Zeppelin and the Carpenters, I have to say they are both immensely talented and iconic in their own ways. Add Superstar as another song that hits those peaks in singing and emotions.
"As someone who enjoys both Led Zeppelin and the Carpenters .." What a great opening phrase! Haha -- 100% with ya'! I agree about Superstar, and would like to mention my very favorite Carpenters song: Close To You. Heartbreakingly beautiful.
The depth of her voice, particularly when she's in the bottom half of her register is just jaw dropping. As a 70s progger, I'd never be caught dead back then listening to that over produced pop. But, as I started to appreciate the talent it took to be an artist, musician, singer, I realized the greatness of their work.
Glad you came around!! Her voice is like melted chocolate. So much emotion. It's how I learned to sing. And she sure can play a drum set like no other. Somebody asked Neil Peart Who his favorite drummer was and he said Karen Carpenter
@pupawheelie 100+% to think of the possiblities for her that could have seen light if allowed to continue in that regard. Never really understood any reasoning behind it either, just a ruling iron fist. the Wrecking Crew wasnt trying to snatch her away from vocalizing et al but one thing is certain, the world of music would be missing a vital element without her voice flowing in it today. Everytime i look at Meg (White Stripes) playing I automatically think of Karen...
It's like that with food, too. Used to hate broccoli and lentils, now I love them! On the other hand, I used to like the Dave Clark Five and now I wonder why.
Karen Carpenter had the best voice in all of music history. This song was my introduction to them. My cousins had a “record player” and this song on 45. We played it over and over and over. Today “SuperStar” is one of my favs too. There will never be another Karen Carpenter. So sad the way her life ended. RIP sweet angel.
@@earlr2992 I'll agree that she was one of the best. I'll perhaps disagree with you on who was the best. Who would you nominate as "the best", or some of the best? I'm curious.
@@ChrisHiblerPinball I don't think any one person is the best. The best ones are all different and have different styles. I think Karen Carpenter is Great, Whitney Houston, I like the group Three degrees, I like Ann Murrey, and there are a few more. I like that they all have very strong clear voices and sing effortlessly. You never see them straining to reach a note.
Karen's voice can be described as hauntingly beautiful. So sad that she left us way way too soon. My wife of now 51 years and I saw the Carpenters in Chicago while Karen sang and was on the drums. What a fantastic brother and sister duo.
You are absolutely right. Karen's voice is a once in a generation voice. A young Norwegian singer also has a hauntingly beautiful voice. Angelina Jordan is 18 years old and has more than 200 songs including several originals. Listen to her interpretation of "Feelin' Good" & "Every Time We Say Goodbye". She reminds me a lot of Karen. ruclips.net/video/p8kAL-sGJx8/видео.htmlsi=1MovvZbuwRE9ldUZ
I'm 64. The Carpenters' music played constantly in my house. My dad was a music teacher who loved their harmonies. Their songs are attached to so many memories of my life during the 70s. My favorite is "Sometimes" which always brings me back to the important things in life.
I grew up with them in the970s and have alway loved them. I appreciated the talent and sincerity of their performances, and even as a young child, LOVED Karen's voice. Good thing for you you have finally seen the light. You've missed 25 years of enjoying their music.
My favorite. A bucket list of mine is to go back to my old neiborhood and sit on the front steps of my childhooh home and play that song (on my phone)and just sit there and experience that feeling where I heard that song for the first time.
Paul Williams is the most under rated artist of my time. I love listening to his recordings and hear his soul coming from every note. Yes Karen Carpenter had the most beautiful voice but Paul's makes the song hang with emotional weight. Sad that she couldn't see how beautiful she was and let outside people do that to her. At least for a little time both souls connected and we can her the results now.
For me, she had a voice that captured me. I would listen to the song when I came across it on the radio. I bought a few Carpenter albums, even suffering the criticism of my brothers and sisters. Her voice was warm, soothing, and so much of a comfort. Even now after all these years, her voice brings tears to this old man's eyes. I was devastated to hear of her death, and really felt it. I just couldn't understand why.
I never paid any attention to them. Then I got married, my wife loves them, and so I've come around. Karen Carpenter really does have a beautiful voice.
My Mom was a member of the Columbia House Music Club and she got The Carpenters Greatest Hits 8-track tape along with some others from Helen Reddy, Captain & Tenneille, and some 1950's & 60's doo whop music. We had an Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser station wagon with an AM-FM 8-track tape player. Mom always played The Carpenters tape and us three kids got to know all the lyrics to every song on that tape. We actually developed a lot of appreciation for The Carpenters. If Mom liked it, we liked it too. Hearing their music brings back good memories of my childhood. Back when things were better.
yep - back when things/life - were a lot better - wish we could go back to those "Wonder Years"... btw - i'm 64 - family of 9 - for as far back as i can remember - we always had a 9-passenger station wagon on trips - people would pass us - and they would be counting how many kids were in the car on one trip - a station wagon passed us - they had 8 kids to our 7...
Ive cried while listening to The Carpenters many times over the years. Their first album was a gift from my mother. Thanks for the trip down memory lane!
This was one of your highlights! Like many rock guys, you came to appreciate the art and heart of this group. Plus, the musical appreciation for THE voice combined with Richard’s arrangements. Nailed it!!!
Karen Carpenter's vocals can cut through any blues, can melt the coldest heart. Always hard to understand her passing, she lives in my soul as the perfect siren who heals with just a few words. Thanks Prof, its raining again!
did not melt mine and I do not have a cold heart. I liked a few things they did but, was just not into that kind of music. But, I felt really sad when she died. It was such a waste. I knew she was talented and a good singer even though I was not into her style of music.
I saw The Carpenters in 1971 at the Minnesota State Fair. I was just a kid and while their music wasn't my favorite, they had a long list of recognizable songs. Karen's voice struck me as so pure and that concert experience has stayed with me ever since. She was an amazing and rare talent. Rest in peace, Karen.
I grew up listening to the carpenters. Richard’s arrangements were phenomenal but Karen’s voice is so pure and angelic! No singer ‘s voice has ever come close to sounding as beautiful as Karen’s voice! She left this earth way too soon!
I still have tthe ticket stub from a concert in 1972. I was 6. Their music is the foundation of my musical life. Rainy Days & Mondays is my mantra. It helped get me through the death of my ex from alcoholism. He was 6 ft 3 and could drink a gallon of vodka in less than two days. He fell down the stairs and broke his neck
Loved the Carpenter's music & had their albums. 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.
Have you ever seen her drumming video? While the band is playing "Strike Up the Band" she has percussion set-ups all over the stage. She plays conga drums and the runs over to the drum kit, then runs over to the kettle drums and then to a second drum kit. We can see how much she loved drumming.
I grew up on the Carpenters and always loved them, even as a First Ave mohawk studded leather jacket punk rocker!! Karen's pipes were untouchable. There are some amazing vocalists out there but no one comes close to the pure magic of Karen Carpenter!!
I saw them twice in the early 70's and they were incredible, not enough superlatives to share for their talents. The voice, OMG I have never heard better and I am 71 years young. Love your videos. Many thanks for the memories. I cried the day she passed.
I always got such shit as a kid for listening to them. It was “old” music because by then, it was probably 10 or 15 years old, but I didn’t care. Karen Carpenter’s voice had me in my feels one way or the other every time I heard it, and I didn’t care what other people thought. I sang their songs to my children. My daughter’s favorite was “Sing”, and my son’s was “Close To You”. They still love those songs at 26 and 27 years old.
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 - I started singing it to my son because he has his father’s beautiful blue eyes. “Golden starlight in your eyes of blue”. I think of his sweet, 2 year old self every time I hear it. Makes me smile so hard.
Only the professor could tell this story. Your honesty and sharing about your life, couples with your own mellow, story telling ability makes you the perfect narrator for Karen Carpenter. Thank you¡
I was 13 when she passed away. Baltimore radio played a few of their songs and I purchased the cassette 1969-1973 a few days later. That voice, especially on "Masquerade."
In addition to the absolute magic that was Karen, I still marvel at Richard’s playing, backup vocals, arranging and producing. There is a lushness and exceptional polish to their recordings. To say their standards were high, would be an understatement. What a gift they were.
I grew up with the Beatles and the Carpenters. The Carpenters were described as squeaky clean in the middle of the rock and roll era. They were the most beautiful misfits ever. Her voice, his arrangements. Thank you for your sensitive coverage. ❤️💔
Close to you! My favorite song to sing in the car....I remember exactly where I was when I heard she died! Just heartbreaking! Thank you for the reminder!
Karen's voice and singing was like a having a best beautiful friend that's with you and always with you. Adam, i used to cry at this song too. Sometimes i couldnt listen to it when i was a kid. The Carpenters were everywhere when i was a kid. It was easy to thrive in the "classic" rock. They were an oasis on the bustling city.❤
It's so true how we hear a song differently after life has kicked us in the teeth. I'm really hearing this song for the first time because I thought it was lame when we played it in Band in the 7th grade. Tooting this melody on my clarinet did not endear me to the song! I get it now. For me, my biggest heartbreak song is John Prine's "Souvenirs", because I've lost all my family except for my son. The song describes the heartache of losing everyone you love over time... "All the snow has turned to water Christmas days have come and gone Broken toys and faded colors Are all that's left to linger on I hate graveyards and old pawn shops For they always bring me tears I can't forgive the way they robbed me Of my childhood souvenirs" 😭
Professor, I am so glad you changed your mind and came around becoming a Carpenters fan. I'm a 70's kid that grew up on their music. In my elementary school, I was in the school chorus and sang the Carpenters 1973 #1 hit "Top Of The World" on stage in front of an entire audience. So, that song will always be special to me. I have in my record collection the entire Carpenters song catalog. Today's featured song "Rainy Days And Mondays" is one of my many favorite Carpenters songs. Other favorites of mine include "Close To You", "We've Only Just Begun", Superstar", "I Won't Last A Day Without You", and "Yesterday Once More". The Carpenters are one of my top 5 all-time favorite duos. Karen Carpenter has always been my personal, all-time, favorite, female singer. She had the most naturally beautiful female singing voice that I have ever heard. Her voice was so warm and angelic. In early 1983, I remember hearing the tragic news that Karen had suddenly died. It broke my heart. I grew up with her and her brother Richard's music during the 70's and I was such a fan of theirs. I never listen to the so-called music journalists. A lot of them have taken shots at music artists that I love. It doesn't phase me. Also, when I was in High School, I would hear the snide, nasty remarks against many artists that i love that they didn't consider "cool" and made fun of. Again, that didn't phase me. What's "cool" is liking and enjoying the music of your taste and not letting haters hurt you and make you feel bad. Anyway, I'm so glad you did an episode on The Carpenters. Karen is still my all-time favorite female singer and The Carpenters music will always have a special place in my heart.
I'm almost 64 and remember as a child, listening to Carpenters and her beautiful voice in my mom's car. Also, don't forget that Roger Nichols was the engineer of all those superb Steely Dan albums as well as many many others.
Paul Williams (lyrics) and Roger Nichols (music) also wrote their "I Won't Last a Day Without You". Paul wrote lyrics of Barbara Streisand "Evergreen" and Three Dog Night's "An Old Fashioned Love Song". Roger wrote the melody of Paul Anka's "Times of Your Life".
He also wrote the lyric for The Rainbow Connection which I adore. I struggle to sing that with that children in school as the words are just so pure and beautiful. But Karen Carpenter's voice, that's a whole other story. One of the most beautiful vocal instruments in the history of recorded sound.
Karen Carpernter had THE purest voice ever in music. Silky smooth yet warm and reassuring. My favourite song is Goodbye To Love, not just a heartbreaking vocal from Karen and an emotive melody but the great guitar work from Tony Peluso, breaking ground by having a rock guitar solo(s) on a melancholic string laden ballad. Sheer magic.
Gosh, I love that song. The first guy I ever dated, when I was 17, broke up with me, and I thought my life was over. Lol. But I still remember crying along to Goodbye to Love.
I'm old enough to have been young enough when the Carpenters hit it big. That means I never had a negative reaction to them even as I grew up and became more a fan of hard and prog rock. The Carpenters still bring a warm feeling every time I hear Karen's wonderful voice. It's too bad she's still not with us. The Carpenters would be huge on the retro tours today, and there's no doubt we missed many more hit songs from one of pop's greatest vocalists. As Adam wonderfully recounts, her songs and vocal stylings grew to have even more meaning to us as we all matured. I hope you've found peace, Karen.
It is kind of odd how they cut across genres, where even some hard rock fans didn't instinctively lunge for the radio button when Karen started singing.
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 He is doing a limited tour in the UK this year. He will be doing a Q&A with the audience also. He said this is the first time he can bring himself to play their songs without Karen. 😥
My mother introduced me to the Carpenter's beautiful singing and harmonies. They are truly soothing....and not many bands can do that!And they do fun covers as well, like Jambalaya to lighten the mood. Download Greatest Hits. Mike in South Africa.
I’m an old metalhead through and through, but I could never deny the beauty of the Carpenters music and vocals…unbelievably smooth and soothing. This, to me, is one of the Professors best, and most heartfelt reviews (for obvious unfortunate reasons). Great job, Prof!!!
Helped me to learn to be nonconformist. At age 11 I loved them both the moment I heard them for the first time. I played piano and sang so I recognized it immediately. I learned not to care about being mocked by people who did not understand. When I arrive in the next world, some of my first words will be: I want to see Karen.
This is by far my favorite of all your work. Poet Robert Frost once said, “No tears in the writer, no tears in the reader”. You have shown that to be absolutely true.
![Noob To Max With DRAGON REWORK In Blox Fruits [FULL MOVIE]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/LnBMOinoOvA/mqdefault.jpg)
Poll: Who has the MOST SOOTHING Voice of the Rock Era?
Jon Anderson. Yes
Karen Carpenter, hands down.
Judie Tzuke
Christine McVie
Francis Albert Sinatra
Cash
Leslie Gore
Ronette Spector
Karen Carpenter.
Richard Carpenter said it best: “If you say you don’t like our music that is fair but if you say it’s BAD music, I’m sorry, you’re just wrong” ❤️❤️ They were both geniuses.
I've never been a Carpenters fan and I did disdain their music as a hard rocking stoner. That was a form of stoned snobbery and I know that now after being delivered from that dead-end lifestyle(PTL). My Carpenters connection is with their Christmas album. Selections from it are a must in my Christmas Playlist. However, if any of their music comes on a Playlist or the radio, it serves to take me back to the time before drugs entered my life & makes me nostalgic about my early teens. Also makes me sad to think of the premature ending of poor Karen's earthly journey.
I know that Richard was right, their music wasn't bad music. My grandmother loved it.
No argument there. But the sixties music was about way more than musical merit per se.
@@MARIEFONG-q7q I was never a fan of hard rock. Just filled with negative emotions. I like beauty , positive feelings, and sometimes profound meaning.
He’s right. In terms of craftsmanship it’s amazing, there’s no mistakes, and Karen’s voice was flawless, she’s always right on the money
Couldn't agree more! The Carpenters were Fabulous!
She had one of the purest voices ever. How lucky were we to be alive at the same time as Karen Carpenter
Yes, her voice was so pure! Would have loved her singing even without any musical accompaniment but her brother Richard's musical talent was equal to her singing... an amazing combination!!
Well said.
If only we were blessed with another 40 years. Can you image!
Absolutely!
Have you heard JUDITH DURHAM ,,,, The Seekers
The girl never used autotune and never sang off key. Beautiful vocals!
Autotune was not even invented until 1996 & first used in 1997. It is OVER-USED these days. I miss the days of natural musical talent.
She WAS autotune. Never was a better singer; never will be.
Just saying her name makes me cry.
@@hellskitchen10036 Drives me up the walls at times
@@threadripper979 I’d say her and Linda Ronstadt are in the same class
Karen Carpenter's crystal clear, purely emotional voice is possibly the best in rock/pop history. Not flashy, just emotionally gripping. Really nothing else like it.
I remember that phenomenon of people that thought they were “ too cool” for the music genre like Carpenters. It became more apparent each year during my youth that they were not the ones to hang out with and turned out to be a terrible influence at many times. I had the ability to appreciate a wide range of genres. Trust your instincts and your heart. Those critics killed that talented innocent woman.
Or at least contributed to her early demise. World of journalism is full of thoughtless narcissistic A holes.
Let's also appreciate what an awesome drummer she was too. Apparently she described herself as a drummer who could sing!
Karen's voice will never be matched again. She was priceless
Smooth as silk… flawless!
Definitely Karen Carpenter. However, I wouldn't classify their music as rock & roll, but rather pop. When I was in college, The Carpenters were scheduled to perform. Sadly many students complained that they didn't want their sugar-coated music. They wanted more hard rock performers. Ticket sales were dismal, so The Carpenters canceled. When I was young, I was torn between liking them and thinking that they were something my parents liked. I couldn't have that!
Too bad her great voice was used for bad music.
@@deathmetaldouglas69 It's only YOUR opinion that the music is bad, and what would You know about it? Being "deathmetaldouglas" you've limited yourself. Music is universal, and that means ALL MUSIC.
@@MetFan37 So if my name was Jazzy Jeff (I love Miles Davis even more than Morbid Angel BTW) would you be making the same dumb argument? Hmmmmm.
I never understood why so many people have a problem with wholesomeness, I find it refreshing. Love the Carpenters, always did. If Karen had lived lived, can you imagine how many records they might have broken.
Their “wholesomeness” was a sham. They both succumbed to very unwholesome lifestyles, and their image kept them from getting help.
But I love the Carpenters. Wholesome? No. They were talented professionals.
Not exactly "wholesome" no...there was a purity though & their music was later called "softcore"...and there was an amazing 1994 tribute album called "If I Were a Carpenter" with 90s alt-rock bands covering Carpenters songs, like Sonic Youth, Redd Kross, Shonen Knife, Babes in Toyland & more...their music had this undeniable "something" that spoke to these underground alt-rock/alt-pop bands & artists...
@@lawrencedavis4406"soft rock", not soft core.
Karen had her issues, and Richard was a qualude addict, so they weren't exactly squeaky clean. Karen's story behind the scenes is mostly tragic, from her extreme shyness to her failed marriage to people taking advantage of her to her eating disorders.
Wholesomness is the new punk
How does a 21 year old singer sing "Talking to myself and feeling old" and make it sound genuine? Her gift is that her voice never sounded false when she was singing any line. She connected to the words so well. There are a lot of female singers who can sing with exuberance. Singing with power and fireworks galore. She never needed to overstress herself. Her singing just flowed out of her like hot chocolate. So sweet and pure and warm. Why is it that it seems the best things in life are limited. We needed more of her singing but it ran out. What a shame.
That's because depression knows no age.
Steven Tyler wrote Dream On when he was 14 years old. My mom loved the Carpenters when I didn't, but now I do.
You make the classic mistake non musicians make when listening to rock music which is overthinking lyrics. This is not a testimonial at a church baptismal ceremony where someone says they found Jesus nor is it a politician running for office stating qualifications for the office. Creatively the songwriter and vocalist singing the song are conveying an emotion using the sentiment of the words to make it come to life. They want the listener to feel something that the song is conveying and when you sense the melancholy Karen is singing about you get the point of the song. For example, the Ohio Players sang about "Fire" in a massive 70's hit but were not arguing for an actual fire. They were expressing the passion felt for a particular woman. It's the emotion most of the time in rock music that is the goal of the song and less frequently the literal message of the lyrics.
When you are 21 and you realize your childhood is over, you do feel old, even though your adult life is still ahead of you. As the decades of your life pass and memories become more distant, you realize you are never old until your dead. My mom died in January at 92 and 2 months. She never complained about feeling old, even when she couldn't see well (Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)), ate almost nothing (she weighed 70 pounds), and could barely move. She wanted to keep living, but her body didn't.
So true. Imagine the wonderful songs they would have continued to make. It’s such a shame.
I am a black 64 year old man and I have always loved the Carpenters. Karen and Richard are the best. My sister and I have always loved soft rock and the Carpenters were a major part of it. My wife of 44 years nor my sons never learned to love them as I do. My sister died in 2007 so every time I listen to the Carpenters I think of her. Thank you for the video.
They had so many great songs, I liked "Superstar" most of all, what was your favorite.
Thank you for sharing this touching story. ❤️🩹
I'm 51 and whilst I obviously knew of her, I didn't realise just how pitch perfect she sang. Plus I also never realised that she could shred a drum kit - and sing at the same time!
I don’t think Karen gave a sh*t what color any of us were or are. Music overcomes all that.
No color needed
I'm still a hard rocker at 72 but when I hear Karen Carpenter sing i slip into a warm, comfortable, blissful state.
We called the Carpenters 'goodie 4 shoes'
amen
Thank you!
You said it! I wrote the same thing in my original comment!
Exactly.
I was a total rock head in the 70s, Zep, Sabbath, etc....but I always had room in my heart for my guilty pleasures of ABBA and The Carpenters. :-)
Not guilty. They were great.
nice - so many people put themselves in a box when it comes to music
i grew up in the 60/70s - graduated HS in 77 - i listened to everything - rock, pop, prog, metal, R&B, country - you name it
if it was good - it was good - never cared about the genre
Me too, and Little River Band as well.
@@jonniiinferno9098 Same here, Manilow or Venom it's no problem for me I like it all...
Same here Dave!
I met Richard Carpenter in 1985 while taking a music marketing class at UCLA taught by the editor of Billboard magazine. He arranged a tour of A&M records and lo and behold there was Richard in the studio where he and Karen recorded all their hits. He was the nicest guy in the world and shared some great stories but you could still feel his sadness of losing Karen. Still one of my great memories.
Karen died in 83 so I’m sure he was still in mourning. 2 years isn’t much time for that for siblings who were very close.
Their abiding sibling love was one of the things that made them special. I think she sang lead mainly because Richard and John Bettis wanted it; she considered herself a drummer first and last. (You can see in clips that the thing that lights her up the most is playing drums.)
Wow! That’s cool! I had heard that Richard Carpenter was such a nice guy.
What I meant to say should've been Karen's prime years, God bless her!
Richard in his late 70s now. Time flys.
I'm 71, graduated High School in 1971. "We've only just begun" was our class song. What a great time to live...
Was our junior year prom theme song, 1972.
The 70's Ruled!! 'Nuff Said ✌️🤟🤙
Same here, Class of ‘71, small town Iowa, it was our class song too ❤️
Wow, Rick, I was born in '71, a world away... But I agree, that was the best era!
I graduated in 1970...loved being a teen in the 60's/ the music was awesome.
How can anyone hate Karen Carpenter? Her voice is so strong, pure and soothing
There was a lot of rock snobbery in the 70s and 80s that looked down on “clean” groups and music that sounded good without having to blow out your amps.
She has a good voice but could have lost some of her ugly "hiccups/slurs" coming off words at the end of phrases. I'd have to go through their songs to find them, but most people should know what I mean.
Only an idiot that doesn't recognize true talent.
@@coloradospacegeek4226 coupled with the rise of the Underground/Progressive Rock format that quickly evolved into Album Oriented Rock aka AOR.
People dont really hate them. They just like other bands. Some people dont like the beatles.
Karen Carpenter was also voted the best rock drummer in 1975. Rest in peace Karen you blessed the world with your beautiful voice that will never be forgotten
Yeah .. I never knew she could shred a drum kit.. and sing like an angel at the same time. Seriously impressive!
That was Hugh Hefner playboy called her#1 just trying to get a piece of ass
41 years ago today, February 4, 1983 the world lost a beautiful voice and a beautiful soul. RIP Karen Carpenter. ❤️
I was 13 when I bought my first single record: The Carpenters' Close to You. Until I saw the date in your post, I didn't recall that Karen died the day before my birthday 13 years later.
Like JFK & MLK I remember exactly where I was when KFRC announced it. Karen’s death still seems sadder to me.
And little did we know one of the first social media provoked deaths.
Yes we did lose a fabulous singer
I graduated from college on Feb. 4, 1983 after the '82 fall semester. The college actually held a smaller winter graduation ceremony. The news of Karen's death was all over the news that morning as my parents and I got ready for the graduation service and the almost 90 minute drive to the college. The day was supposed to be a celebration of my greatest accomplishment to that point in my life but all I could think about the entire day was Karen's death. I was heartbroken and remain heartbroken to this day.
How can you hate Karen Carpenter. Her voice is so angelic. Loved the Carpenters since I was young.
I always loved the Carpenters, and hated the way the critics treated them. She tried so hard to be what other's wanted, and still be true to herself, it was pretty heartbreaking. I was a 'clean' kid during the 70's, no alcohol, drugs, etc, and appreciated their image
I was not a squeaky clean teenager by a long way but still loved the music, I liked all sorts from heavy rock to the carpenters.
And their music is even more appreciated today, after most of the trash thrown at us. Brilliant harmonies, great band, great production.
Those who derided clean living collected the consequences.
@@karinberryman2009 So true. Many not still here today (granted, now probably in later middle age, I'm 62) to enjoy later years as a result. Some dying quite painfully, I dare say.
Karen Carpenter was not only a fabulous vocal talent, but watching her play the drums is a sheer treat! Absolutely amazing!
Yep/ Weird he didn't mention that. Though he's apparently not a musician.
John Bonham of Zeppelin was pissed she got a higher ranking as a drummer
Indeed. Search this sight for her performance of Dancing in the Streets. You will not be disappointed.
A hunger for the wrong drumsticks.
She always wanted to be a drummer first.
She was the first woman I ever saw playing drums. Helped my sisters and I realize we could do it too. Two of us ended up playing them in school.
Carpenters were my first concert, in 1974. (I went alone, since they were not considered cool.) They used backup tracks, since it was just the two of them, but Karen played drums. Most do not realize it, but they were not really a pop act. They were polished jazz musicians; it informed Karen's phrasing, and Richard's composing. Their music is very sophisticated, in an unpretentious way.
According to her brother Richard, being forced to the front of the stage to sing at the microphone and denied the ability to sit at the drums played a large role in her eating disorder. It was the only thing she had complete control over in her life.
@@jillwklausen Those rare recordings of Karen on drums can be found here on RUclips. Sent them to my grand daughter who is also a percussionist. ❤
Mo Tucker was one of the first if not THE first.
That’s not nothing. Big deal back then.
I remember driving home from work when I heard on the radio news that Karen Carpenter had died. i had to pull over to the curb and have a cry!
I died a little bit that day.
@@azcomicgeeki think we all died a little that day too.
Karen Carpenter’s voice can still bring me to tears.
Oh my God, I'm 62 years old & I don't remember a time in my life I didn't love their music. Karen's voice is otherworldly. ❤
Indeed, sometimes almost literally otherworldly. Have you ever heard ‘Calling Occupants of Interplanetary Craft’? It’s from their ‘Passage’ album. The video is here on youtube.
That's the only song of theirs I couldn't stand then and still can't! 😅
When I was a Radio DJ, I couldn’t tell you how many thousand times I’ve played that song. My opinion of it has varied throughout my former career. But the whole 40-ish years of that, I was thankful that the station (whichever station it was) had its transmitter at a location some distance from the studio. Why? Because just in case there WERE aliens landing near town, that situation made it so the station’s air signal (what you actually picked up on your radio, which CAN be located if you know how) was always at least across town from where I WAS! Just in case they were hostile (or just don’t like Carpenters music) when they aimed whatever at the source of that signal… IT WOULDN’T BE THE SAME PLACE I WAS!!.
@@edryba4867I was working in Top 40 and AOR radio a few years later and that song never came up in the gold category, as I can remember anyway. I remember playing it at least once, but don’t remember why. It’s not really a big favorite of mine, just quirky and intriguing. My overall opinion of the Carpenters is that they brought life and beauty to otherwise drab and boring pop songs. If we didn’t have Karen’s lilting vocals the songs mostly wouldn’t be worth listening to; they’d be totally forgotten by now if they’d been performed by anyone else, with only a few exceptions like ‘Stop Mr Postman’.
I very much wish Karen had lived a lot longer, obviously because her death in youth was tragic but also because the loss to the American musical universe was incalculable. I wonder what other kinds of music she might have given us in later years. My favorite of all is Karen’s version of ‘Don’t Cry For Me, Argentina’, and one cannot listen to her flawless and definitive performance without wondering why she didn’t have a full career doing nothing but Broadway. She was as good as anyone there, now or then. Perhaps she couldn’t act, I don’t know, but she sings ‘…Argentina’ better than anyone I’ve ever heard!
Carpenters- sheer perfection!
In my opinion Karen Carpenter was an Angel walking and living amongst us humans. A voice that was so calm and yet so powerful. She is truly missed
The Professor is one of the truly genuinely nice guys on RUclips. He revealed his vulnerability he endured and how the Carpenters helped him heal.
Prof, thank you for what you bring to this community!
Music has a way of answering questions for us. As a 18yo was fighting constantly with my father when Cat Stevens brought out Father and Son. It helped me make some sense of what was happening. Dad died suddenly 3 years later and this song always brings a tear. I loved the Carpenters' music - so much of it resonated then, but more so now.
Yes. The Professor is knowledgeable and well connected, and interviews some of the greatest (Brian Wilson, Ann Wilson), yet remains open and humble. This channel is an oasis for me in troubled times, socially and personally.
Brilliant....thank you
"When you're happy, you hear the music. When you're sad, you hear the lyrics."
Oh yes! That is so true ❤@@quimeau
Every time I hear Karen Carpenters voice, it makes me cry. She had so much more to give…
You ever see a big fluffy white cloud against a blue sky? It's not blocking the sun, but it's near enough that the sun tinges the edge with gold, orange, and red. Her voice sounds like that. Angelic.
❤ Very well put 🎉
so true.
And it was well recorded. They had 19 singles in a row that charted in the top 50 and most were in the top 20. People may say they didn't like them, but they did and always will.
Word:)
I agree!!
I was stationed overseas in the Army when Karen passed away. I sat in my barracks room and cried. I loved her voice and how the Carpenters music made me feel growing up! Thanks for this.
If you have the opportunity, I would highly recommend a visit to her tomb in LA. Its a beautiful place and it was almost a spiritual experience for me. Lots of people have been there and left flowers and I did the same myself.
I did the same, brother.
@@abdiver12
I wish I had visited, when I was down there in 2020 for about seven months.
-Big regret now!
I will be 70 in a few months and Karen’s voice helped me thru many hard and dark times in my life. RIP to an exceptional voice.
@danielrivard9335 Happy Birthday in advance..........I have a brother who is turning 70 this year also.
Patty-I will be 74 in a few months. I loved Karen's voice because she was one of the few female vocalists with whom I could sing. I wasn't blessed with a beautiful soprano voice. No, I had and still have a 2nd Alto voice. Their music always made me feel better. I have so many memories attached yo their music.
@@patriciatolliver4057 Merci, Patty, may your 2nd alto resonate for many years.
You may have a soulmate. I turn 70 in June, and Karen's voice has gotten me thru many times, good and bad.
@@ChuckHackney Chuck, We are Survivors, man.
I was in my 30s in the 1970s and loved the Carpenters. I loved the song "Close to You. " I would try to sing it to my hubby, who I loved so much. He died in the 1990s. I listen to the song and cry like a baby!!
❤
🫂❤️🕊️
The very first time I heard Rainy Days and Mondays, I was a kid in L.A. I literally stopped , listened,, and thought to myself, "That is the most beautiful singing voice I will ever hear." I still think that is true.
For me it's like my mum singing to me, 45 years ago...
Paul Williams. Just a massive talent. He was everywhere while I was growing up in the 70s.
Remember him in Smokey and the Bandit and Phantom of the Paradise.
I remember him on the early, early days of the Muppet Show -- They made him a "Paul Williams" Muppet!
@@themeanhornet1070 I was just watching Phantom! Paul had such a massive talent. Could work in any genre. And he works well with Muppets! I’m always pleasantly surprised when I see his body of work. Love Paul Williams!
Yes, he wrote Old Fashioned Love Song. Three Dog Night recorded it. Rainbow Connection for the muppets. Paul Williams has wrote some hits. He’s a talented songwriter.
I met Paul Williams in 1977 when he opened the East County Preforming Arts Center in El Cajon, Ca. Then again last year at Comic Con in Arkansas. He was such a kind man who listened to me fan girl out.
The Carpenters lived down our street, and my brothers went to school with them in the Morris Cove section of New Haven before moving to Downey. They're Connecticut's pride and
joy!! No one has a voice like Karen❤
I’m glad you grew up with them!
They're from CT?? No way I didn't know that wow...
Yes, sir, I know I d you not! Google it!
No one before or since.
"Claire de la Fuente" has almost the same voice like Karen C....Listen to one of her songs..."Sayang" she's the Filipino version of Karen Carpenter and she's also a famous during the 70's in the Philippines
I was in hospital when Karen died in Feb 83. The hospital radio station played so many of The Carpenters hits over the next few days. I knew their music growing up but that experience took my admiration to another level ever since. Rest In Peace Karen, your voice will live on for eternity.
"Rainy Days and Mondays" when it segues into "Goodbye to Love" gets me emotionally every time. I always loved The Carpenters because Karen's voice was so beautiful and mesmerizing.
No one has ever matched Karen Carpenter's heartachingly beautiful voice. You can hear her pain in her songs.
Some of her songs are sad, but not the majority of them; many are wistful or happy: "We've Only Just Begun", "(They Long to Be) Close to You", "Merry Christmas, Darling", "For All We Know", and "Top of the World", to name a few. But happy or sad, hearing Karen Carpenter sing never disappoints.
Agree but to me even in the upbeat songs, there is something unspoken in Karen's voice... another layer that gives it depth and melancholy. I can't really describe it, but I don't just hear "happy."
@@cryptic1741This
Tori Holub is hauntingly close. ruclips.net/video/jd4Uf7zERGw/видео.html
There is a new young vocalist named Tori Holub that gets so close, it’s scary. Search for her on RUclips. You’ll be pleasantly surprised.
I think Karen Carpenter was one of the best female vocalist of all time. She had a voice that was made in heaven.
One of the most beautiful, open voices ever! R.I.P. Karen Carpenter!
My favorite female voice of all time. She has touched my soul for years, however, I was like you back in the day, and didn’t know what to think of them. But I was converted and absolutely love their music now. This is coming from a 70s heavy metal man.
THEY ARE HORRIBLE
Yeah, I went through a hating phase when I was young. I found them a bit too saccharine back in the 70s, but in the end her incredibly expressive voice won me over. Yes her voice is perfect technically, but it's the deep emotion she conveys that really moves me.
@@ms.felonystrutter2472 No they aren't. You just refuse to listen outside your single genre. There is a lot of great music out there.
@@ms.felonystrutter2472🤣🤣🤣 Not horrible but not great. To each their own. 👍
I am EXACTLY there with you on this one. My two favorite male singers are Robert Plant and Jon Anderson. My two favorite female singers are Karen Carpenter and Elaine "Spanky" McFarlane. Spanky had those pipes, and Karen made you feel like she was right there in the room with you.
As a teenage boy in the 70's there weren't too many things less cool than admitting that you liked the Carpenters. It was a sure fire one way ticket to teenage hell! However I remember seeing them on a TV show doing 'Close to You' and I was hooked. I loved Karen from that first moment. She was pretty and of course her voice just melted me into a puddle. Now, over 50 years later her voice still feels like velvet to my soul. Absolutely one of the two or three best female singers of all time....possibly THE best. It's such a tragedy that she never knew how special she was and how many hearts she touched. RIP Karen.
Same
i'm 64 - and 99% agree with your statement - the 1% is that i think she absolutely is/was the best female singer of all time - her voice was so pure and emotive...
For me, only two other singers are in the same angelic voice category as Karen C and have the instant ability to stop me in my tracks and choke me up, that would be Eva Cassidy and Selina Quintanilla, both of whom also died just when they were getting started. It's often impossible to make it through the first verse of one of their songs without feeling overwhelmed. It's a reminder to me that angels never seem to last long in this hell we're in.
Amy Winehouse is another example but I can usually make it all the way through one of her songs without being emotionally obliterated. But not always.
yes
In grade school we sang some Carpenters songs in choir. I was not ashamed to say I liked the Carpenters then. I wasn't popular LOL
I was a little boy when this song came out. It was raining and my mother had picked me up at school for some reason. Since it was raining, I knew my mother wouldn't let me go outside and play. Raining Days and Mondays came on the radio and when it said "they use to call the blues" I didn't know what that meant. I asked my mother to explain it and that is when I learned what blues was. I knew the feeling, but didn't know what to call it. At that moment I could relate to the song. Every time I hear that song it takes me back to that day. It was brings back happy sad days. You have to pay your dues if you want to sing the blues. Karen's voice will always be timeless. Great Video.
I’m 63 and when the Carpenters come on the radio, I’m back in my room singing at the top of my lungs. I know every word of almost every song. Always loved their music so much. Thank you for this episode, so nostalgic❤
Still heartbroken over Karen's shortened life.... and what could've been. What a voice! She proved you don't have to hit those high soprano notes to be an awesome singer. I drive by the Carpenter Performing Arts Center at Cal State Long Beach almost daily...
So many superstars of the sixties and seventies that died so young, that they took musical blessings to the grave we old people/all people will never tickle our ear drums!!
Karen could hit the high notes as well as the lows. She was one of the 4+ octave range singers.
Bless her heart. Rip Karen Carpenter. She had such a beautiful voice.
I mourned so much when she died..I had had one opportunity to see them in 1972or 3 when they came to Fort Worth, but my parents would not allow me to go with my church youth group. My heart was broken.
When I hear a Carpenters song, I admit I feel some anger rise up, knowing how she was cruelly bullied by an insensitive writer.
I did not know they had a venue named in their honor.
I was 5 yrs old when my eldest brother got married. I was their flower girl & the song that was sung as it was for so many in 1970, We've Only Just Begun! Every time I hear it this many years later, I always think of them!! After 35 years of marriage, 5 children & 2 grandchildren, we lost my sister in law to cancer. It was devastating for my brother, all of us! They now have 12 grandchildren & there's not a day that goes by that I don't think of her & when the Carpenters come on the memories flood!! She loved them & we love her!! Thanks for this, it warmed my heart hearing some of the back story to this song & all of the songs Karen sang that will always bring joy & a smile!!!
Ditto, it was played at my wedding whilst we were signing papers in the vestry, back in April 1973.
The lyrics are so fitting, now my husband of many years has passed, it is a song that never fails to stir up emotions.
Not one of my favorites but I did sing it at my nephew's wedding along with Paul Stookey's wedding song at the request of the bride. They are still married 40-some years later so I guess I did OK.
God bless you and your wonderful family
Paul Williams was an absolute beast in the '70s. Him, Burt Bacharach and Carol Bayer Sager ruled the airwaves back then.
Remember “Old Souls” from Phantom of the Paradise”?
Don't leave out Jimmy Web.
And Carole King.
I was 7 years old when "Close to You" was released & the lyrics about Angels getting together to put dust in your hair generated some wild images in my mind. Mental music videos.
I spoke with Richard when I ran into him at Macy’s in Downey. It was the early 1990’s.
We talked about Karen. His voice crackled with sad emotion. I left our conversation in tears. Even to this day, when I hear a Carpenter’s song, I go back to that day and can feel his sadness.
I cried for weeks when she died. It was just all so sad….
_Thanks for sharing that story. That was certainly a lucky interaction._
*_Richard & Karen Carpenter came from a good, loving, & supportive family. It's such a shame that Karen was never lucky enough to have her very own loving/supportive family. She deserved SO much better. I think she would've loved being a mother & would've excelled at it._*
_It's good that Richard was able to move on from her death & become a loving father/husband. 👍_
Karen was such a pure soul, her beautiful voice, it made it excruciating to lose her, because nobody deserved to live more than Karen Carpenter. Nobody.
@@andyroid5028Their mother wasn't loving or supportive of Karen.
Her voice has the ability to reach out and grab hold of me, often times making me sad and misty even after all this time.
I grew up in the 60's and 70's and the Carpenters were a big part of my early love of music. Karen Carpenter was huge back then, amazing voice and a great drummer.
I was a Top 40 Radio disc jockey in Northern Indiana in the early 1970s. My date was a recently graduated high school cheerleader. She convinced me to drive to the Notre Dam Convocation Center in South to see the National Cheerleader Finals.
Halfway through the competition, the judges took a break and a band set-up to play.
I hadn't heard of them before but absolutely fell in love with the female's voice.
We moved up and stood directly in front, trying to find her. To my utter amazement, it was the drumner.
That's when I fell in love with Karen Carpenter 😍 💕
And she was neither a drummer who could sing, nor a singer who played drums. She was among the greatest drummers of a couple generations AND she was a world-class singer.
What a great story. Thanks for sharing.
Great story thanks for sharing.
Lucky to have this experience. Fantastic.
What a great story did you mean South Bend
I’m 65. I can still remember being completely memorized by her voice in early 70’s while at the same time listening to the ‘you could admit to publicly’ rock groups. She was definitely my first secret crush. I wore out that 1973 remix album. One of my favorite tracks was a Beatles cover song “Ticket to Ride”. Richard’s arrangements brought out the best of her angelic voice. Musical genius
I’ve watched many of your videos, Adam. I’m much older than you (I’m 66) and I love your deep appreciation for music. I was moved by you related briefly the demise of your marriage. I went through the same thing after 26 years of marriage. Like you music was a source of healing for a very long and painful season. You’re a good soul, Adam. Keep up the good work!
He will appreciate your comment if he sees it. God bless
64 - and i can relate - my first marriage ended after 12 years and 2 sons - the Professor's story brought those memories to the forefront.
2nd marriage 24 years in November - 200% better than the first. Glad you and the Professor both survived. 🙏
@krd1209 - 😢
@krd1209 *_Oh wow. I'm so sorry for your loss, sir. Thanks for sharing your story... but I must admit, your story really saddened me. It stirred up some teary-eyed emotions in me (& I'm a middle-aged guy who doesn't cry all that often)._*
_Anyway, it's hard to come up with some appropriate/comforting words (because 'words' just seem to fall short in respect to the tragedy you are enduring)... so, I'm sorry if I'm struggling here with these words a bit. Overall, I pray that time will heal your painful wounds. Carry on as best as you can... I'm sure it's what she would have wanted you to do (until you see her again one day)._
*Stay strong & take care of yourself (& good luck)! Things **_WILL_** get better!*
Karen Carpenter and Linda Ronstadt were both truly gifted at making our souls hear what the song/music was trying to tell us. Pure Emotion ❤
Pure emotion is exactly right!
i remember those days when radio could have been called Bacharach and who and Close to You hinted at the vocal chops that would flood the radio when the Carpenter's released their next album - think you will enjoy this performance - the world's greatest cover band, but more than that, Leonid & Friends - Ksenia Buzina's version of Superstar - ruclips.net/video/JhWrggrJ20I/видео.html - - - Chicago ? - ruclips.net/video/9_torOTK5qc/видео.html - - - Steely Dan ? - ruclips.net/video/P_8aZZ9d_EA/видео.html
David Gates too!
@uforferdetnilsson2595 Also check out "Lexington Lab Band" for some amazing re-creations. Much more than a cover band.
You just named my two favourite female singers of the 70s.Yes,there were,and still are,plenty of great vocalists out there,but no other voices could pull emotions out of you like Karen and Linda.
Thank you for featuring the Carpenters. I’ve always thought of Karen as the greatest female singer ever.
I was born in 72’ and grew up listening to the Carpenters because my Grandma always listened to them and I loved their songs and would sing all their songs along with her . Awesome memories. RIP Karen RIP Grandma ❤️
We've seen a lot of singers come and go, each special in their own way, but Karen Carpenter stood alone. Her voice really felt like it came from heaven and God was just sharing.
Agree. May she RIP.
Mom and dad took us to the Missouri state fair about ‘68, ‘69, and the Carpenters were on fire. After Bobby Goldsboro, they came out and Karen was on the drums! I was like, “WHAT?” What a dream come true that was. I’m still heartbroken when I think of how she passed. We lost a national treasure.
You're one of the lucky ones who saw them early in their career when Karen was still singing from behind her drums. Before they made the tragic mistake of taking her out of her "comfort zone" and pushing her out front to lead the band.
You mean the Missouri State Fair in Sedalia? I think it was in 1971 because I was there and remember hearing Karen singing Close To You. They blasted it over the loud speakers to the whole Fairgrounds. I'm pretty sure it was in 1971.
@@davidhedges7186 I cannot dispute your account of the event. Due to certain activities in the 1970’s my memory banks, much like those of Will Robinson’s robot on “Lost In Space”, are heavily corroded.
@@davidhedges7186That tracks. '68-69 would be too early (Carpenters' first recordings as such came out in '69), but 1970 was their breakout year and in '71 they were peaking...
As someone who enjoys both Led Zeppelin and the Carpenters, I have to say they are both immensely talented and iconic in their own ways. Add Superstar as another song that hits those peaks in singing and emotions.
Superstar is amazing!
"As someone who enjoys both Led Zeppelin and the Carpenters .." What a great opening phrase! Haha -- 100% with ya'! I agree about Superstar, and would like to mention my very favorite Carpenters song: Close To You. Heartbreakingly beautiful.
Oh yeah, loved everything Led Zepplin to Karen Carpenter. While I sang aloud to both albums back in the day, I sing Superstar at karaoke. 🎶
Both bands had great drummers too 😉
The depth of her voice, particularly when she's in the bottom half of her register is just jaw dropping. As a 70s progger, I'd never be caught dead back then listening to that over produced pop. But, as I started to appreciate the talent it took to be an artist, musician, singer, I realized the greatness of their work.
Glad you came around!! Her voice is like melted chocolate. So much emotion. It's how I learned to sing. And she sure can play a drum set like no other. Somebody asked Neil Peart Who his favorite drummer was and he said Karen Carpenter
Wow, I didn't know that about Neil Peart
@pupawheelie 100+% to think of the possiblities for her that could have seen light if allowed to continue in that regard. Never really understood any reasoning behind it either, just a ruling iron fist. the Wrecking Crew wasnt trying to snatch her away from vocalizing et al but one thing is certain, the world of music would be missing a vital element without her voice flowing in it today. Everytime i look at Meg (White Stripes) playing I automatically think of Karen...
Buddy Rich said Karen was his favorite drummer.
Close To You will always resonate with me. Rumer has a wonderful version.
Karen had one of the purest voices in music.
I agree! Rumer’s voice sounds just like Karen to me!
It's interesting when things we once hated as a child become treasured memories now
It's like that with food, too. Used to hate broccoli and lentils, now I love them!
On the other hand, I used to like the Dave Clark Five and now I wonder why.
I know!
Same with cheese and Salami as a kid and now...🤓
I'm glad you came around to join the rest of us. Her voice is still mesmerizing.
Karen Carpenter had the best voice in all of music history. This song was my introduction to them. My cousins had a “record player” and this song on 45. We played it over and over and over. Today “SuperStar” is one of my favs too. There will never be another Karen Carpenter. So sad the way her life ended. RIP sweet angel.
First sentence. Truth
Someone (Rick Beato??) analyzed her voice and concluded that she beat the crap out of any of today’s singers even when the were using autotune.
She wasn't the best voice but one of the best. Loved all the carpenters songs
@@earlr2992 I'll agree that she was one of the best. I'll perhaps disagree with you on who was the best. Who would you nominate as "the best", or some of the best? I'm curious.
@@ChrisHiblerPinball I don't think any one person is the best. The best ones are all different and have different styles. I think Karen Carpenter is Great, Whitney Houston, I like the group Three degrees, I like Ann Murrey, and there are a few more. I like that they all have very strong clear voices and sing effortlessly. You never see them straining to reach a note.
Karen's voice can be described as hauntingly beautiful. So sad that she left us way way too soon. My wife of now 51 years and I saw the Carpenters in Chicago while Karen sang and was on the drums. What a fantastic brother and sister duo.
You are absolutely right. Karen's voice is a once in a generation voice.
A young Norwegian singer also has a hauntingly beautiful voice. Angelina Jordan is 18 years old and has more than 200 songs including several originals. Listen to her interpretation of "Feelin' Good" & "Every Time We Say Goodbye". She reminds me a lot of Karen.
ruclips.net/video/p8kAL-sGJx8/видео.htmlsi=1MovvZbuwRE9ldUZ
I'm 64. The Carpenters' music played constantly in my house. My dad was a music teacher who loved their harmonies. Their songs are attached to so many memories of my life during the 70s. My favorite is "Sometimes" which always brings me back to the important things in life.
I grew up with them in the970s and have alway loved them. I appreciated the talent and sincerity of their performances, and even as a young child, LOVED Karen's voice. Good thing for you you have finally seen the light. You've missed 25 years of enjoying their music.
The Carpenters bring back good memories from my childhood. “Those old melodies still sound so good to me, as they melt the years away”.
"as they melt the YEARS away"
@@bodaciouscowboy thanks, corrected. I knew that but mistyped in my rush.
My favorite. A bucket list of mine is to go back to my old neiborhood and sit on the front steps of my childhooh home and play that song (on my phone)and just sit there and experience that feeling where I heard that song for the first time.
Paul Williams is the most under rated artist of my time. I love listening to his recordings and hear his soul coming from every note. Yes Karen Carpenter had the most beautiful voice but Paul's makes the song hang with emotional weight. Sad that she couldn't see how beautiful she was and let outside people do that to her. At least for a little time both souls connected and we can her the results now.
"Brings comfort to the soul" perfectly describes Karen Carpenter's distinctive and revelatory talent. Truly one of the best vocalists of all time.
It’s like chicken soup for the soul.
When I listen to her songs it soothes my soul.
happiness, nostalgia and sadness....
For me, she had a voice that captured me. I would listen to the song when I came across it on the radio. I bought a few Carpenter albums, even suffering the criticism of my brothers and sisters. Her voice was warm, soothing, and so much of a comfort. Even now after all these years, her voice brings tears to this old man's eyes. I was devastated to hear of her death, and really felt it. I just couldn't understand why.
I never paid any attention to them. Then I got married, my wife loves them, and so I've come around. Karen Carpenter really does have a beautiful voice.
My Mom was a member of the Columbia House Music Club and she got The Carpenters Greatest Hits 8-track tape along with some others from Helen Reddy, Captain & Tenneille, and some 1950's & 60's doo whop music. We had an Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser station wagon with an AM-FM 8-track tape player. Mom always played The Carpenters tape and us three kids got to know all the lyrics to every song on that tape. We actually developed a lot of appreciation for The Carpenters. If Mom liked it, we liked it too. Hearing their music brings back good memories of my childhood. Back when things were better.
You can cruise the vistas.
Your comment takes be back as well, those good old days. 😊
yep - back when things/life - were a lot better - wish we could go back to those "Wonder Years"...
btw - i'm 64 - family of 9 - for as far back as i can remember - we always had a 9-passenger station wagon
on trips - people would pass us - and they would be counting how many kids were in the car
on one trip - a station wagon passed us - they had 8 kids to our 7...
Ive cried while listening to The Carpenters many times over the years. Their first album was a gift from my mother. Thanks for the trip down memory lane!
This was one of your highlights! Like many rock guys, you came to appreciate the art and heart of this group. Plus, the musical appreciation for THE voice combined with Richard’s arrangements. Nailed it!!!
Karen Carpenter's vocals can cut through any blues, can melt the coldest heart. Always hard to understand her passing, she lives in my soul as the perfect siren who heals with just a few words. Thanks Prof, its raining again!
did not melt mine and I do not have a cold heart. I liked a few things they did but, was just not into that kind of music.
But, I felt really sad when she died. It was such a waste. I knew she was talented and a good singer even though I was not into her style of music.
That voice can really get to your SOUL!
I saw The Carpenters in 1971 at the Minnesota State Fair. I was just a kid and while their music wasn't my favorite, they had a long list of recognizable songs. Karen's voice struck me as so pure and that concert experience has stayed with me ever since. She was an amazing and rare talent. Rest in peace, Karen.
Minnesota here too! I was 10 in 71 but sure wish I could have seen them. Best state fair too! I live for it every year.
What was your favorite song they played?
I grew up listening to the carpenters. Richard’s arrangements were phenomenal but Karen’s voice is so pure and angelic! No singer ‘s voice has ever come close to sounding as beautiful as Karen’s voice! She left this earth way too soon!
I still have tthe ticket stub from a concert in 1972. I was 6. Their music is the foundation of my musical life. Rainy Days & Mondays is my mantra. It helped get me through the death of my ex from alcoholism. He was 6 ft 3 and could drink a gallon of vodka in less than two days. He fell down the stairs and broke his neck
The most beautiful, soothing voice in music history. I can listen to their music anytime and it never gets old.
I was mesmerized by how good of a drummer she was! Simply outstanding!
Loved the Carpenter's music & had their albums. 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.
She always looked so happy when she was behind her drum kit!
Have you ever seen her drumming video? While the band is playing "Strike Up the Band" she has percussion set-ups all over the stage. She plays conga drums and the runs over to the drum kit, then runs over to the kettle drums and then to a second drum kit. We can see how much she loved drumming.
Thank GOD for RUclips. We can watch the Carpenters whenever we want and cast it to our TVs!!
I grew up on the Carpenters and always loved them, even as a First Ave mohawk studded leather jacket punk rocker!! Karen's pipes were untouchable. There are some amazing vocalists out there but no one comes close to the pure magic of Karen Carpenter!!
I saw them twice in the early 70's and they were incredible, not enough superlatives to share for their talents. The voice, OMG I have never heard better and I am 71 years young. Love your videos. Many thanks for the memories. I cried the day she passed.
64 - and i agree with you 100%
I always got such shit as a kid for listening to them. It was “old” music because by then, it was probably 10 or 15 years old, but I didn’t care. Karen Carpenter’s voice had me in my feels one way or the other every time I heard it, and I didn’t care what other people thought. I sang their songs to my children. My daughter’s favorite was “Sing”, and my son’s was “Close To You”. They still love those songs at 26 and 27 years old.
Close to You is such a heartfelt song.
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 - I started singing it to my son because he has his father’s beautiful blue eyes. “Golden starlight in your eyes of blue”. I think of his sweet, 2 year old self every time I hear it. Makes me smile so hard.
💯
Only the professor could tell this story. Your honesty and sharing about your life, couples with your own mellow, story telling ability makes you the perfect narrator for Karen Carpenter. Thank you¡
Tha professor is the best at what he does……. Thank you for your insight…….
I was 13 when she passed away. Baltimore radio played a few of their songs and I purchased the cassette 1969-1973 a few days later. That voice, especially on "Masquerade."
In addition to the absolute magic that was Karen, I still marvel at Richard’s playing, backup vocals, arranging and producing. There is a lushness and exceptional polish to their recordings. To say their standards were high, would be an understatement. What a gift they were.
They were perfectionist's and it shows.
I grew up with the Beatles and the Carpenters. The Carpenters were described as squeaky clean in the middle of the rock and roll era. They were the most beautiful misfits ever. Her voice, his arrangements. Thank you for your sensitive coverage. ❤️💔
Thank you for this...its sad that we lost Karen 41 yrs ago...longer than she was even alive..but she will live forever in their music.
Close to you! My favorite song to sing in the car....I remember exactly where I was when I heard she died! Just heartbreaking! Thank you for the reminder!
Karen's voice and singing was like a having a best beautiful friend that's with you and always with you. Adam, i used to cry at this song too. Sometimes i couldnt listen to it when i was a kid. The Carpenters were everywhere when i was a kid. It was easy to thrive in the "classic" rock. They were an oasis on the bustling city.❤
It's so true how we hear a song differently after life has kicked us in the teeth. I'm really hearing this song for the first time because I thought it was lame when we played it in Band in the 7th grade. Tooting this melody on my clarinet did not endear me to the song!
I get it now.
For me, my biggest heartbreak song is John Prine's "Souvenirs", because I've lost all my family except for my son. The song describes the heartache of losing everyone you love over time...
"All the snow has turned to water
Christmas days have come and gone
Broken toys and faded colors
Are all that's left to linger on
I hate graveyards and old pawn shops
For they always bring me tears
I can't forgive the way they robbed me
Of my childhood souvenirs" 😭
Professor, I am so glad you changed your mind and came around becoming a Carpenters fan. I'm a 70's kid that grew up on their music. In my elementary school, I was in the school chorus and sang the Carpenters 1973 #1 hit "Top Of The World" on stage in front of an entire audience. So, that song will always be special to me. I have in my record collection the entire Carpenters song catalog. Today's featured song "Rainy Days And Mondays" is one of my many favorite Carpenters songs. Other favorites of mine include "Close To You", "We've Only Just Begun", Superstar", "I Won't Last A Day Without You", and "Yesterday Once More". The Carpenters are one of my top 5 all-time favorite duos. Karen Carpenter has always been my personal, all-time, favorite, female singer. She had the most naturally beautiful female singing voice that I have ever heard. Her voice was so warm and angelic. In early 1983, I remember hearing the tragic news that Karen had suddenly died. It broke my heart. I grew up with her and her brother Richard's music during the 70's and I was such a fan of theirs. I never listen to the so-called music journalists. A lot of them have taken shots at music artists that I love. It doesn't phase me. Also, when I was in High School, I would hear the snide, nasty remarks against many artists that i love that they didn't consider "cool" and made fun of. Again, that didn't phase me. What's "cool" is liking and enjoying the music of your taste and not letting haters hurt you and make you feel bad. Anyway, I'm so glad you did an episode on The Carpenters. Karen is still my all-time favorite female singer and The Carpenters music will always have a special place in my heart.
I'm almost 64 and remember as a child, listening to Carpenters and her beautiful voice in my mom's car. Also, don't forget that Roger Nichols was the engineer of all those superb Steely Dan albums as well as many many others.
She has one of the most unique voices in music history . Beautiful, controlled, fluid and so much depth and timbre with beautiful lyrics.
Paul Williams (lyrics) and Roger Nichols (music) also wrote their "I Won't Last a Day Without You".
Paul wrote lyrics of Barbara Streisand "Evergreen" and Three Dog Night's "An Old Fashioned Love Song".
Roger wrote the melody of Paul Anka's "Times of Your Life".
He also wrote the lyric for The Rainbow Connection which I adore. I struggle to sing that with that children in school as the words are just so pure and beautiful.
But Karen Carpenter's voice, that's a whole other story. One of the most beautiful vocal instruments in the history of recorded sound.
Good Stuff!
Paul Williams was very popular in the 70s..
Roger has a knack for melody writing. He has inspired me in my songwriting.
Karen Carpernter had THE purest voice ever in music. Silky smooth yet warm and reassuring. My favourite song is Goodbye To Love, not just a heartbreaking vocal from Karen and an emotive melody but the great guitar work from Tony Peluso, breaking ground by having a rock guitar solo(s) on a melancholic string laden ballad. Sheer magic.
Gosh, I love that song. The first guy I ever dated, when I was 17, broke up with me, and I thought my life was over. Lol. But I still remember crying along to Goodbye to Love.
@@hyacinth4368 Well, I hope you eventually found someone worthy of you and who likes the song too!! ;-)
I'm old enough to have been young enough when the Carpenters hit it big. That means I never had a negative reaction to them even as I grew up and became more a fan of hard and prog rock. The Carpenters still bring a warm feeling every time I hear Karen's wonderful voice. It's too bad she's still not with us. The Carpenters would be huge on the retro tours today, and there's no doubt we missed many more hit songs from one of pop's greatest vocalists. As Adam wonderfully recounts, her songs and vocal stylings grew to have even more meaning to us as we all matured. I hope you've found peace, Karen.
It is kind of odd how they cut across genres, where even some hard rock fans didn't instinctively lunge for the radio button when Karen started singing.
Richard is still with us and I wonder if he might start up a tour soon?
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 He is doing a limited tour in the UK this year. He will be doing a Q&A with the audience also. He said this is the first time he can bring himself to play their songs without Karen. 😥
My mother introduced me to the Carpenter's beautiful singing and harmonies. They are truly soothing....and not many bands can do that!And they do fun covers as well, like Jambalaya to lighten the mood. Download Greatest Hits. Mike in South Africa.
I’m an old metalhead through and through, but I could never deny the beauty of the Carpenters music and vocals…unbelievably smooth and soothing.
This, to me, is one of the Professors best, and most heartfelt reviews (for obvious unfortunate reasons).
Great job, Prof!!!
Me too!!!
Helped me to learn to be nonconformist. At age 11 I loved them both the moment I heard them for the first time. I played piano and sang so I recognized it immediately. I learned not to care about being mocked by people who did not understand. When I arrive in the next world, some of my first words will be: I want to see Karen.
This is by far my favorite of all your work. Poet Robert Frost once said, “No tears in the writer, no tears in the reader”. You have shown that to be absolutely true.