Karen Carpenter actually ALWAYS considered herself a DRUMMER. She never wanted to be a vocalist, and yet, here she is, one of the greatest of all time!
A compilation of clips (ALL WITH HER PLAYING THE DRUMS) of cover songs and their own hits you should check out one day. Watch "Karen Carpenter - The Drummer" on RUclips ruclips.net/video/6dJUnh6N8-U/видео.html
Although she was a fantastic drummer herself, it was the legendary Hal Blaine (who played on countless hit songs as part of the Wrecking Crew group of musicians) who did most of the studio drumming for them throughout the early 70's.
Richard had to coax her out front because the fans werecomplaining they couldn't see her because she was so small only 5'4" tall and only about 100 pound
Here is another perspective on that song. I had to give my baby up for adoption and I got to look at them once… He had the brightest blue eyes. Fast forward a couple of years… I’m in a grocery store and this song was playing. I went out to my car and cried my eyes out. We reunited when he was 18, so I’ve been his mom for 31 years now. But I still think of him every time I hear this song.
Their lyrics were usually simple, sweet, and romantic, and their songs overall selling millions of copies. Karen’s voice was incredible! They were VERY big in the ‘70’s. One of their songs, “We’ve Only Just Begun” was played/sung at more weddings than any other pop song I can remember (my own wedding included). Even though the Carpenter’s songs have less complicated or “deep” meanings than the other songs I’ve seen you react to, I’m very glad you did this. You brought back beautiful memories!
"Close To You" and "We've Only Just Begun" were both covers, showcasing Richard's ability with song selection. (He was of course also a fine composer.) "Close To You" was a little known Burt Bacharach/ Hal David song; "We've Only Just Begun" was written by Paul Williams and Roger Nichols for a bank commercial, which Richard saw on TV and knew a hit song when he heard one. These two songs were Carpenters' second and third singles respectively, and both were monster hits...
"Close To You" and "We've Only Just Begun" were both covers, showcasing Richard's ability with song selection. (He was of course also a fine composer.) "Close To You" was a little known Burt Bacharach/Hal David song; "We've Only Just Begun" was written by Paul Williams and Roger Nichols for a bank commercial, which Richard saw on TV and knew a hit song when he heard one. These two songs were Carpenters' second and third singles respectively, and both were monster hits...
When people are attracted to someone, we DO tend to put them on a pedestal at the beginning. Especially when we're young and falling in love. Most people have experienced this feeling at some point in their lives :)
Over analyzing love songs can destroy the mood of the song. Most love songs are a celebration of that special feeling and special person. They are happy carefree songs in contrast to the everyday reality of life. The deep analysis of Happy Together by The Turtles completely missed that point. People newly in love often obsess over the person that they love and idealize them, especially teenagers who were the target audience of that particular song. It is simply a celebration of being in love. When you fall in love, especially the first time, you too will think about that person constantly and daydream of your future together. It's a happy phase of growing up. Enjoy it. Only rarely does it end in destruction with highly disturbed individuals.
"Close to You" came out in 1970. The norms of traditional '50s living were being replaced with a late '60s, breezy vibe. It was a time of exploration and sexual awakening. Flower Power and Peace signs were everywhere. While "Close to You" is at times dismissed as "easy listening," it's more than that. It's upbeat, simplistic presence offered an undeniable charm to listeners everywhere. Here's a few songs that showcase Karen's voice a bit more... "Only Yesterday," "This Masquerade," "Hurting Each Other," "Solitaire," and "Ticket to Ride" to name a few.
Ok, Carpenters right after Disturbed. I've got a little musical whiplash but it's all good ! It was a different time, my friend, so some love songs were very, very idealistic. Maybe not a bad thing....✌❤🌻😷🎶
Here's a little tidbit most people don't know about the Carpenters... They originated the "power ballad". Check out the guitar work on "Goodbye to Love".
Goodbye To Love is also quite a bit darker than some of their other songs, and written by Richard Carpenter, unlike most of their hits up to that point. It's worth a listen. The fuzz guitar and the message add a real edge to it.
This song came out by the Carpenters two years after Peggy Fleming won gold at the 1968 Winter Olympics. Her medal was they only Gold medal won by the US at those Olympics. Not sure who did the cover she used.
@Scott Asay I was living in Colorado Springs when she came back. She did a performance there it was great to see as a kid. She trained at the Broadmoor there.
Herb was the A of A&M Records, with whom Carpenters spent their career, so he does show up on their recordings. He even turns up on Richard's 1987 solo album "Time"...
@@StudeSteve62 Had his own recording career to boot---guess which label?😉Also, for equal time, BTW, A&M's "M" stands for Jerry Moss, who, incidentally, has been a lifelong horse-breeder. In 1960, Moss moved from his Bronx home to California, where he teamed up with Alpert, forming Carnival Records in 1962, and running the company from an office in Alpert's garage. Eventually discovering that the Carnival name was already spoken for, they dubbed their new-found company A&M Records, and moved into the old Chaplin film lot complex on LaBrea, just south of the Ralph's on Sunset Blvd. Selling A&M to Polygram Records in the early '90s, they founded Almo Sounds (foreseeing the move from records in particular, and preferring a company name with a broader view of how recorded music would be consumed). A and M were both inducted into the Rock'n'Roll Hall of Fame in 2006 as non-performers. Moss will be 86 in May.
Carpenters first biggest hit. 4 weeks #1 on top of the Billboard Hot 100 in the summer of 1970. Written by the dynamic writing team of Burt Bacharach and Hal David
Daniel, Burt Bacharach and Hal David were legendary songwriters responsible for some of the biggest hits not only on album but also in the movies. What I find most impressive to me is that Burt is still putting out music after almost 70 years in the business (he's 92 now). The third name you mentioned that also fell under the legendary songwriter banner is Herb Alpert. My father and mother raised me on the music of all three lol. Herb Alpert's Tijuana Brass is one of the best instrumental bands of all time.
I'm on my way to bed and you post this. Sigh. Well, I gotta sleep. I'll watch this tmrw. Karen moves me to tears every time I watch her sing. Her voice is just so perfect.
ahhh the first flush of new love when you think they are just perfect!! The perfect crush before you get to know them and realise that they are human after all. Never mind if it doesnt last, its beautiful while its happening :)
OH MY GOODNESS!! My husband continually tells me I put him too high on a pedestal!! Right before you said that I was thinking about telling him this song is about how I feel about him!!! I am SPEECHLESS AND MY MIND IS BLOWN!! He says I put myself down too much. And I also used to suffer from Anorexia Nervosa, like Karen Carpenter. This must be a sign to love myself... I am in TEARS!! GOD BLESS YOU!!
It's natural to put the person that we love on a pedestal, just not too high of a one. And it's healthy to have self esteem. Hope your anorexia is in recovery.
This song after all these years still melts my heart. The lyrics are written from a perspective of a person who is smitten with a person. Anyone who has fallen in love can relate to this song and Karen’s voice evokes the pure innocence of someone in love. Her voice makes this song as popular as it is.
Karen and Richard were harmonious and both sang with perfection. Karen just knocked it out of the park every time that she began to sing! Just AWESOME!
Daniel, you probably realize by now that not all songs have to have deep or confusing lyrics that are filled with symbolism, alliteration or inferences (Steely Dan, Rush). Many times simple and basic are just as good. You'll have to listen to more One Hit Wonders from the '60s and '70s to see examples of this. If it's a good song, then it's a good song. This song is just about a young girl infatuated with a boy she sees and can't hide her feelings (emotions are important and missing from a lot of today's music). Top Of The World and Sing are rather simple songs that work because they have a catchy melody and Karen's innocent and angelic voice. You should check out Herb Alpert, a very talented musician(trumpeter) and producer. His Tijuana Brass had 5 Number 1 albums and 28 albums on the Billboard charts. His music was mostly a brass band with Spanish/Mexican and Mariachi influences, while mainly instrumental, it was popular, commercial and sounded great. Whipped Cream, The Lonely Bull, Spanish Flea, A Taste of Honey and Zorba The Greek are only a few of his memorable songs. He won 6 Grammy Awards and kept horns relevant from the Big Band era until Blood, Sweat and Tears and Chicago came along.
As mentioned by a few others here, Burt Bacharach and Hal David wrote this song. Bacharach wrote the music, and David wrote the lyrics. I think of them as the last of the great Tin Pan Alley songwriters. Dionne Warwick recorded the best-known versions of many of their songs. Some of their other hits include: Alfie Always Something There to Remind Me Do You Know the Way to San Jose? I'll Never Fall in Love Again I Say a Little Prayer The Look of Love Make It Easy on Yourself One Less Bell to Answer Promises, Promises Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head That's What Friends Are For This Guy's in Love with You Walk on By What's New, Pussycat? What the World Needs Now Is Love Wishin' and Hopin' Bacharach and David songs are recognizable for their light, lilting sound. They often have odd meters and unexpected changes in rhythm and tempo. One of my favorites of theirs is Promises, Promises, from the musical of the same name. It sounds like a simple song until you really listen to it, or try to sing it. Bacharach and David wrote it for a musical of the same name. Dionne Warwick made the first recording of it, and Jerry Orbach had the lead in the stage production. He found the song so difficult that he called Warwick and asked her how to sing it. If you want to react to anything from this list, I'd suggest Dionne Warwick singing Promises, Promises and Dusty Springfield singing The Look of Love. Both are truly great performances.
One thing about their songs is that they are extremely difficult to sing. Dionne had the ability to sing extremely well. In Close to You Karen makes it seem effortless. BTW Karen and Dionne were close friends.
My mother and her HS chums went to summer outdoor opera to see Burt Bacharach with Carpenters opening. I don’t know who’s idea it was as on of them twisted ankle and was taken backstage at med tent. A guy asked her what happened and she told him and said “I don’t care if I see Burt what’s his name”. He laughed. Nurse came up an said “Well, at least you got to meet the star of the show.”
On the day that she was born the angels got together and decided to create a dream voice come true. Those angels are enjoying that heavenly voice now. I can see her smiling behind her drum kit! Lost Burt Bacharach recently. Rest in peace Karen and Burt.
Love your channel. You’re a genuine person. Many reaction vid hosts are more interested in their “acting” than the actual music. You actually listen to and analyze the lyrics. You should listen to (He’s Playing) Solitaire. My favorite Carpenters song.
The Hallmark of a Bands Signature Song is remembering Exactly where you were, and the Thrilling reaction you had the very first time I heard "Close to You" by The Carpenters. Cheers from the Long lost Past!
ah another muppet fan -- i really liked their show -- watched it with my children as they were growing and enjoyed it as much as they did. also liked the carpenters -- so mellow. thank you for the smiles and memories.
#1 on the charts for 4 weeks the summer of 1970. This was when most of the world first heard the voice of Karen Carpenter and were amazed at what the heard.
Frankie Valli had a hit in 1974 called "My Eyes Adored You" that went to #1 in the US, #5 in the UK. Similar theme -- boy in love with a girl but they only remain remain good friends... 🎶My eyes adored you Though I never laid a hand on you My eyes adored you Like a million miles away from me you couldn't see How I adored you So close, so close and yet so far.
I'd like to suggest "A Song For You". It's a beautiful, haunting tune that really showcases Karen's voice. Well worth a reaction. Written by Leon Russell, as was "Superstar".
This song introduced the Carpenters to the world, and Karen's voice captivated us. That, and she was also the drummer. Another big song at the high school dances. Thanks for the reaction.
Great reaction. The last time I heard this song it was on a comedy show. Scarecrow in a field - Farmer approahes the scarecrow and sings the line "Why do birds suddenly appear when you are near". Something else warm hearted to remember Karen by. Karen made every song she sang hers. What an amazing talent
Many don't know her passion was playing drums. And she was good... A compilation of clips (ALL WITH HER PLAYING THE DRUMS) of cover songs and their own hits you should check out one day. Watch "Karen Carpenter - The Drummer" on RUclips ruclips.net/video/6dJUnh6N8-U/видео.html
Burt Bacharach and Hal David have an extensive catalog. Very good writers. Hal Blaine is featured prominently in the documentary, "The Wrecking Crew". Worth the watch.
I was introduced to the Carpenters in the 70’s by my mum, at that time I was into Yes, ELP etc. Listening to the Carpenters introduced me artists I would never dreamed of listening from my mums likes such as Johnny Cash, Sinatra, Dusty Springfield and Roy Orbison. It wasn’t trendy to like these artists for a kid of my age but with out them a whole of music would of been closed to me
I first heard Rick Moranis sing Close To You a capella in a movie. His wife had left him. He walks into her job singing their wedding song and refuses to stop despite her protests. “I’ll lose my job!” she says to Rick. He even does the ending harmony bit.
I canlisten to then all day! "Touch Me When We're Dancing", "Top of the World", "Bless the Beasts and the Children", For All We Know, "I Won't Last A Day Without You", "Only Yesterday" and "Hurting Each Other" are other suggestions.🥰👍
Good bye to love , which features a fuzz guitar solo, For all we know, very sentimental and Hurting each other, a very amazing lead vocal and well orchestrated, check it out!
Love the Carpenters! That's Karen on the drums. I like the songs she sings in her lower register. I hope you do a few Carpenters Christmas songs, they're amazing!
Young love! If you are head over heels in love when you are young, even if the other person doesn’t know it, which is often the case, the song is perfect. Unfortunately that rare time in ones life is very brief.
Daniel, I love that you're open to learning about these gems. Keep in mind that this is a song about unrequited love. Emotional not logical. Sadly fitting for Karen, who struggled so much in her short life. Her star burned bright and fast.
The quintessential Burt Bacharach. I remember he had a summer fill in called An Evening With Burt Bacharach. He played this as his final song with a beautiful alternate ending. For unusual reasons I recorded the show off the TV on a home reel to reel tape. I’ve lost the tape but I remember it so well I could sit down and play it today. Probably the only people who remember it are Burt an me. Kinda funny.
Karen was always a drummer first, vocalist second. It just so happens that she was the finest female vocalist of all time. That's why she was so special, but also so tragic: her most famous talent wasn't her greatest passion.
I sing this to my blond haired, blue eyed 10 year old nephew all the time. Doesn't have to be romantic, it's just about loving someone so much that they're *perfect* in your eyes, and are the person you want to spend all your time with, and you think the whole world should feel the same way. :)
This song is pure magic, with Karen’s velvety contralto voice and Richard’s exquisite arrangement. Get on a great sound system & check out the original, longer version of “They Long To Be (Close to You)” on Carpenters’ sophomore album “Close to You” - it has a false ending, with a long silence and some great drum fills which always gets cut out of other versions. “Close to You” the song can be interpreted in a number of ways. The most obvious is the first time a (usually very young) person falls in love - you view your paramour with rose-colored glasses, sure, but after you mature into more realistic relationships, that first time you felt absolute adoration & euphoria is something you never forget. We’re lucky we grow out of this ultra-romantic worship, yes, but you still compare your feelings in future relationships to that first time. But on another level, this could be a song about a young mother bonding with her newborn. I could also see a group of friends or family texting a link to Carpenters’ version of this song - or performing it! - to a loved one on their birthday, and meaning it as a platonic or familial expression of love. Saw a video online somewhere where Richard Chamberlain’s recording of “Close to You” from the (early ‘60s?) was played. Sounded very much like a straightforward, old-school Sinatra knockoff. If you hear that plus some of the other earlier covers, it makes it easy to appreciate what a genius arranger Richard Carpenter is, because Carpenters really made this cover their own. Same for the original Crockett Bank commercial that birthed “We’ve Only Just Begun” and co-songwriter Bonnie Bramlett’s performance of her original version of “Groupie (Superstar)” - Richard always “Carpenter-ized” these songs in such a fabulous way.
You should check out the Mamas and the Papas for some top notch 60’s close harmonies and great songs in a similar vein. California Dreaming, Creeque Alley and Dedicated to the one I love would be good starting points and their cover of ‘Dancing in the Street’ (originally by Martha and the Vandellas.) Dancing in the street was also covered by the Kinks, the Grateful Dead, Van Halen and then notably for live aid by David Bowie and Mick Jagger. That could make for a whole day of comparative reactions although the differences in interpretation are not as great perhaps as some of the others you have reacted to.
One of my favorite vocal groups. I love their arrangement of Dedicated to the One I Love ( especially the ending ). They are really known for California Dreaming and Monday Monday, and those songs didn’t even feature the voice of Cass Elliot.
I can't remember exactly, but the first song I remember hearing on the radio was either this, "Windy" by The Association, or "Something" by the Beatles. Among the three, though, this holds a special place for me because my mom used to sing it to me. You are reading too deep and cynically into simple (almost sappy) lyrics about loving someone so completely that they captivate your entire world. Songs such as this weren't made to be picked apart by the jejune minds of youth today; just enjoy and imagine the feeling.
This song was actually a cover. Dionne Warwick originally recorded it.,. It was on the flip side of her record and was not a big hit. Herb Alpert gave Richard the song to record with the instructions to have the three distinctive chords. Richard did the arrangement which Bacharach, the song's composer, said was better than his. Luckily, this song was a hit because the Carpenters probably would have lost their record contract. Their sound was very different than many groups at that time.
I know hardcore prog and metal musicians who privately admit to liking Abba and The Carpenters because of the sheer quality of the performances and production, but also precisely because the songs aren't deep and complicated. It's like top class chefs going home and enjoying pizza or beans on toast - just undemanding comfort food.
Karen is an amazing drummer as well, she considered herself a Drummer who sings The closet correlation to the Carpenters these days, are Billie Eilish & her brother Finneas ( Billie is amazing ! ) Karen's voice is angelic AF !
A compilation of clips (ALL WITH HER PLAYING THE DRUMS) of cover songs and their own hits you should check out one day. Watch "Karen Carpenter - The Drummer" on RUclips ruclips.net/video/6dJUnh6N8-U/видео.html
Some of my favourite songs by them (I really recommend) are “Only Yesterday” “Top of the World” “Goodbye to Love” “Yesterday Once More” just to name a few.... I do believe you can’t go wrong with the Carpenters
Close To You was the second single release from the Carpenters first album in 1969. The first single was called Ticket To Ride which is a Beatles cover but failed to reach the top 40. However it is an amazing cover and well worth a good listen. You should consider reviewing both versions for comparison. Close To You was a #1 hit and stayed at the top for a month straight, making it their biggest hit. Another cover worth hearing is their cover of Desperado by the Eagles. You will like!
Personally, this is my favorite song from the Carpenters. It's a classic and I can honestly say It is one of the best songs all time. Watching her sing and play drums on this song in the video is so cool. Hope you check it okay. Thanks and keep smiling🤘🎸☺
Check out pianist Burt Bacharach (pronounced 'BACK-A-RACK'), one of the BIGGEST music artists (pop/easy listening) of the 1960s! It was a duo of Burt Bacharach (he wrote the music), and Hal David (he did the lyrics). Tons of big worldwide, classic hits, especially with singer Dionne Warwick...Bacharach was a one of a kind talent...
A great song! Burt Bacharach is a genius songwriter and a regular hit machine!. And this is one of his best! The song's melody with Karen's excellent vocal is just 'sweet'!
Brother Richard was the music genius behind Karen's hauntingly angelic voice. He wrote, arranged, produced, sang background and, of course, played the beautiful keyboards for his sister to shine.
When I heard you say that it's someone putting someone else too high up on a pedestal, I thought, when you fall in love so deeply with someone and think so highly of them, this song will make sense.
Ahhh, grasshopper, do not be too quick to dismiss the feelings of true love....if you're lucky, you'll be smitten (haven't used THAT word in a while!) by another, and you'll have very similar feelings! Loved your reaction, though...as always.
There is a version on You Tube which shows Karen playing the drums while she is singing this song. This was the Carpenters' first hit which went to number one and launched their careers to the top.
A compilation of clips (ALL WITH HER PLAYING THE DRUMS) of cover songs and their own hits you should check out one day. Watch "Karen Carpenter - The Drummer" on RUclips ruclips.net/video/6dJUnh6N8-U/видео.html
It's one of the most saccharine love songs ever, but it was really perfect to my teenaged self. The arrangement sounds very influenced by Burt Bacharach. Lol! In the middle of watching you talk, I just paused to look Burt Bacharach up on Wikipedia to name off some songs it reminds me of, and I see he wrote it! And now you are saying his name. btw, Herb Alpert, trumpet player, played as a studio musician in the Wrecking Crew, and his albums really sold well, for lots of radio play, he was on TV shows. Incredibly good, but are only instrumentals. Whipped Cream, like many other Alpert songs, is so happy. As is Tijuana Shuffle/Mexican Shuffle. I remember listening to albums while doing grade school homework. The songs El Presidente, and one called El Salud, Amor y Dinero. But favorites by everyone will be The Lonely Bull (!!LOVE ), Rise(!!LOVE), A Taste of Honey, Spanish Flea. Never on Sunday (with lots of good Spanish guitar). Zorba The Greek will make you write your homework very fast (!!LOVE)
If you liked the trumpet in the middle of this song, you'd love the fuzz guitar in the middle of Goodbye to Love. I'm surprised no one seems to have mentioned that song yet.
Yeah, this is pretty much 9th grade, schoolgirl crush level lyrics. But, when I was a 9th grade schoolgirl, it worked for me! The first of many Carpenters' songs I consider to be my favourites!
Karen Carpenter actually ALWAYS considered herself a DRUMMER. She never wanted to be a vocalist, and yet, here she is, one of the greatest of all time!
A compilation of clips (ALL WITH HER PLAYING THE DRUMS) of cover songs and their own hits you should check out one day.
Watch "Karen Carpenter - The Drummer" on RUclips
ruclips.net/video/6dJUnh6N8-U/видео.html
Although she was a fantastic drummer herself, it was the legendary Hal Blaine (who played on countless hit songs as part of the Wrecking Crew group of musicians) who did most of the studio drumming for them throughout the early 70's.
Richard had to coax her out front because the fans werecomplaining they couldn't see her because she was so small only 5'4" tall and only about 100 pound
"One of"?
Here is another perspective on that song. I had to give my baby up for adoption and I got to look at them once… He had the brightest blue eyes. Fast forward a couple of years… I’m in a grocery store and this song was playing. I went out to my car and cried my eyes out. We reunited when he was 18, so I’ve been his mom for 31 years now. But I still think of him every time I hear this song.
Their lyrics were usually simple, sweet, and romantic, and their songs overall selling millions of copies. Karen’s voice was incredible! They were VERY big in the ‘70’s. One of their songs, “We’ve Only Just Begun” was played/sung at more weddings than any other pop song I can remember (my own wedding included). Even though the Carpenter’s songs have less complicated or “deep” meanings than the other songs I’ve seen you react to, I’m very glad you did this. You brought back beautiful memories!
Yes!!! 😃
"Close To You" and "We've Only Just Begun" were both covers, showcasing Richard's ability with song selection. (He was of course also a fine composer.) "Close To You" was a little known Burt Bacharach/ Hal David song; "We've Only Just Begun" was written by Paul Williams and Roger Nichols for a bank commercial, which Richard saw on TV and knew a hit song when he heard one. These two songs were Carpenters' second and third singles respectively, and both were monster hits...
"Close To You" and "We've Only Just Begun" were both covers, showcasing Richard's ability with song selection. (He was of course also a fine composer.) "Close To You" was a little known Burt Bacharach/Hal David song; "We've Only Just Begun" was written by Paul Williams and Roger Nichols for a bank commercial, which Richard saw on TV and knew a hit song when he heard one. These two songs were Carpenters' second and third singles respectively, and both were monster hits...
One of the greatest voices ever.
These two are so sweet they would put Willy Wonka out of business 😜💜
When people are attracted to someone, we DO tend to put them on a pedestal at the beginning. Especially when we're young and falling in love. Most people have experienced this feeling at some point in their lives :)
Over analyzing love songs can destroy the mood of the song. Most love songs are a celebration of that special feeling and special person. They are happy carefree songs in contrast to the everyday reality of life.
The deep analysis of Happy Together by The Turtles completely missed that point. People newly in love often obsess over the person that they love and idealize them, especially teenagers who were the target audience of that particular song. It is simply a celebration of being in love. When you fall in love, especially the first time, you too will think about that person constantly and daydream of your future together. It's a happy phase of growing up. Enjoy it. Only rarely does it end in destruction with highly disturbed individuals.
Generally that only lasts up to the time one cuts the cheese in front of the other person for the first time.
"Close to You" came out in 1970. The norms of traditional '50s living were being replaced with a late '60s, breezy vibe. It was a time of exploration and sexual awakening. Flower Power and Peace signs were everywhere. While "Close to You" is at times dismissed as "easy listening," it's more than that. It's upbeat, simplistic presence offered an undeniable charm to listeners everywhere.
Here's a few songs that showcase Karen's voice a bit more... "Only Yesterday," "This Masquerade," "Hurting Each Other," "Solitaire," and "Ticket to Ride" to name a few.
Ok, Carpenters right after Disturbed. I've got a little musical whiplash but it's all good ! It was a different time, my friend, so some love songs were very, very idealistic. Maybe not a bad thing....✌❤🌻😷🎶
Here's a little tidbit most people don't know about the Carpenters... They originated the "power ballad". Check out the guitar work on "Goodbye to Love".
Goodbye To Love is also quite a bit darker than some of their other songs, and written by Richard Carpenter, unlike most of their hits up to that point. It's worth a listen. The fuzz guitar and the message add a real edge to it.
Interesting fact: Olympic medal-winning figure skater Peggy Fleming used this song on her way to Gold!
This song came out by the Carpenters two years after Peggy Fleming won gold at the 1968 Winter Olympics. Her medal was they only Gold medal won by the US at those Olympics. Not sure who did the cover she used.
@Scott Asay I was living in Colorado Springs when she came back. She did a performance there it was great to see as a kid. She trained at the Broadmoor there.
The trumpet certainly bears the hallmark of Herb Alpert.
Chuck Findley is the trumpet player here.
@@ronibrowning7316 It's a flugelhorn.
Herb was the A of A&M Records, with whom Carpenters spent their career, so he does show up on their recordings. He even turns up on Richard's 1987 solo album "Time"...
@@StudeSteve62 Had his own recording career to boot---guess which label?😉Also, for equal time, BTW, A&M's "M" stands for Jerry Moss, who, incidentally, has been a lifelong horse-breeder. In 1960, Moss moved from his Bronx home to California, where he teamed up with Alpert, forming Carnival Records in 1962, and running the company from an office in Alpert's garage.
Eventually discovering that the Carnival name was already spoken for, they dubbed their new-found company A&M Records, and moved into the old Chaplin film lot complex on LaBrea, just south of the Ralph's on Sunset Blvd.
Selling A&M to Polygram Records in the early '90s, they founded Almo Sounds (foreseeing the move from records in particular, and preferring a company name with a broader view of how recorded music would be consumed).
A and M were both inducted into the Rock'n'Roll Hall of Fame in 2006 as non-performers. Moss will be 86 in May.
Carpenters first biggest hit. 4 weeks #1 on top of the Billboard Hot 100 in the summer of 1970. Written by the dynamic writing team of Burt Bacharach and Hal David
Daniel, Burt Bacharach and Hal David were legendary songwriters responsible for some of the biggest hits not only on album but also in the movies. What I find most impressive to me is that Burt is still putting out music after almost 70 years in the business (he's 92 now). The third name you mentioned that also fell under the legendary songwriter banner is Herb Alpert. My father and mother raised me on the music of all three lol. Herb Alpert's Tijuana Brass is one of the best instrumental bands of all time.
I'm on my way to bed and you post this. Sigh. Well, I gotta sleep. I'll watch this tmrw. Karen moves me to tears every time I watch her sing. Her voice is just so perfect.
A high school girl hopelessly in love. Your high school is full of them.
But no girl expresses it quite like Karen.
Good call on the Muppet Show thing! That version was sung by Connie Stevens. Now that would be an interesting cover comparison. :-D
ahhh the first flush of new love when you think they are just perfect!! The perfect crush before you get to know them and realise that they are human after all. Never mind if it doesnt last, its beautiful while its happening :)
We all need a little schmaltz in our lives from time to time.
Music from a so much more innocent time. My sisters and I loved this album. Bless your heart for saying you like them.
OH MY GOODNESS!! My husband continually tells me I put him too high on a pedestal!! Right before you said that I was thinking about telling him this song is about how I feel about him!!! I am SPEECHLESS AND MY MIND IS BLOWN!! He says I put myself down too much. And I also used to suffer from Anorexia Nervosa, like Karen Carpenter. This must be a sign to love myself... I am in TEARS!! GOD BLESS YOU!!
It's natural to put the person that we love on a pedestal, just not too high of a one. And it's healthy to have self esteem. Hope your anorexia is in recovery.
This song after all these years still melts my heart. The lyrics are written from a perspective of a person who is smitten with a person. Anyone who has fallen in love can relate to this song and Karen’s voice evokes the pure innocence of someone in love. Her voice makes this song as popular as it is.
Karen and Richard were harmonious and both sang with perfection. Karen just knocked it out of the park every time that she began to sing! Just AWESOME!
What a Classic.So great.
Karen's voice was a gift from god.
Ahhh...
My sappy sentimental teen years.
Karen Carpenter's voice is like a warm, velvety robe that envelopes you and you are filled with happiness and warmth!
Daniel, you probably realize by now that not all songs have to have deep or confusing lyrics that are filled with symbolism, alliteration or inferences (Steely Dan, Rush). Many times simple and basic are just as good. You'll have to listen to more One Hit Wonders from the '60s and '70s to see examples of this. If it's a good song, then it's a good song. This song is just about a young girl infatuated with a boy she sees and can't hide her feelings (emotions are important and missing from a lot of today's music). Top Of The World and Sing are rather simple songs that work because they have a catchy melody and Karen's innocent and angelic voice. You should check out Herb Alpert, a very talented musician(trumpeter) and producer. His Tijuana Brass had 5 Number 1 albums and 28 albums on the Billboard charts. His music was mostly a brass band with Spanish/Mexican and Mariachi influences, while mainly instrumental, it was popular, commercial and sounded great. Whipped Cream, The Lonely Bull, Spanish Flea, A Taste of Honey and Zorba The Greek are only a few of his memorable songs. He won 6 Grammy Awards and kept horns relevant from the Big Band era until Blood, Sweat and Tears and Chicago came along.
@Harper Madison me too. My mom bought it in the 60s and I was hooked.
As mentioned by a few others here, Burt Bacharach and Hal David wrote this song. Bacharach wrote the music, and David wrote the lyrics. I think of them as the last of the great Tin Pan Alley songwriters. Dionne Warwick recorded the best-known versions of many of their songs. Some of their other hits include:
Alfie
Always Something There to Remind Me
Do You Know the Way to San Jose?
I'll Never Fall in Love Again
I Say a Little Prayer
The Look of Love
Make It Easy on Yourself
One Less Bell to Answer
Promises, Promises
Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head
That's What Friends Are For
This Guy's in Love with You
Walk on By
What's New, Pussycat?
What the World Needs Now Is Love
Wishin' and Hopin'
Bacharach and David songs are recognizable for their light, lilting sound. They often have odd meters and unexpected changes in rhythm and tempo. One of my favorites of theirs is Promises, Promises, from the musical of the same name. It sounds like a simple song until you really listen to it, or try to sing it. Bacharach and David wrote it for a musical of the same name. Dionne Warwick made the first recording of it, and Jerry Orbach had the lead in the stage production. He found the song so difficult that he called Warwick and asked her how to sing it.
If you want to react to anything from this list, I'd suggest Dionne Warwick singing Promises, Promises and Dusty Springfield singing The Look of Love. Both are truly great performances.
One thing about their songs is that they are extremely difficult to sing. Dionne had the ability to sing extremely well. In Close to You Karen makes it seem effortless. BTW Karen and Dionne were close friends.
My mother and her HS chums went to summer outdoor opera to see Burt Bacharach with Carpenters opening. I don’t know who’s idea it was as on of them twisted ankle and was taken backstage at med tent. A guy asked her what happened and she told him and said “I don’t care if I see Burt what’s his name”. He laughed. Nurse came up an said “Well, at least you got to meet the star of the show.”
Yep. All great songs, and I've always liked Dione Warwick, promises promises.
The Carpenters had an angelic sound to them. Let me say, Karen had an angelic voice! Another great reaction!
You just can't mistake Karen's voice .... exquisite !
On the day that she was born the angels got together and decided to create a dream voice come true. Those angels are enjoying that heavenly voice now. I can see her smiling behind her drum kit! Lost Burt Bacharach recently. Rest in peace Karen and Burt.
Love your channel. You’re a genuine person. Many reaction vid hosts are more interested in their “acting” than the actual music. You actually listen to and analyze the lyrics.
You should listen to (He’s Playing) Solitaire. My favorite Carpenters song.
The Carpenters + Burt Bacharach = Perfection
The Hallmark of a Bands Signature Song is remembering Exactly where you were, and the Thrilling reaction you had the very first time I heard "Close to You" by The Carpenters. Cheers from the Long lost Past!
Awwwe! Don't cha know that's what puppy love feels like?!! ❤️
This is the song that put them on the map, 12 year old me fell in love with them when I heard this...still in love 😊
Her voice is so heavenly...Such a loss, RIP Karen an Angel herself
ah another muppet fan -- i really liked their show -- watched it with my children as they were growing and enjoyed it as much as they did. also liked the carpenters -- so mellow. thank you for the smiles and memories.
I love that you appreciate this music.
#1 on the charts for 4 weeks the summer of 1970. This was when most of the world first heard the voice of Karen Carpenter and were amazed at what the heard.
Her voice is phenomenal and she died way to young 💔 😢
Frankie Valli had a hit in 1974 called "My Eyes Adored You" that went to #1 in the US, #5 in the UK. Similar theme -- boy in love with a girl but they only remain remain good friends...
🎶My eyes adored you
Though I never laid a hand on you
My eyes adored you
Like a million miles away from me you couldn't see
How I adored you
So close, so close and yet so far.
I'd like to suggest "A Song For You".
It's a beautiful, haunting tune that really showcases Karen's voice. Well worth a reaction.
Written by Leon Russell, as was "Superstar".
The Carpenters first single. Huge Number One. Their first of 12 Top Ten singles. 🎼🎶🇨🇦
6:40 - 7:20 Now THAT was a typical reaction from a 17 year old boy.
It's good to see that you really are a teenager. We were wondering : )
This song introduced the Carpenters to the world, and Karen's voice captivated us. That, and she was also the drummer. Another big song at the high school dances. Thanks for the reaction.
Great reaction. The last time I heard this song it was on a comedy show.
Scarecrow in a field - Farmer approahes the scarecrow and sings the line "Why do birds suddenly appear when you are near".
Something else warm hearted to remember Karen by. Karen made every song she sang hers. What an amazing talent
You're awesome Daniel!
Many don't know her passion was playing drums. And she was good...
A compilation of clips (ALL WITH HER PLAYING THE DRUMS) of cover songs and their own hits you should check out one day.
Watch "Karen Carpenter - The Drummer" on RUclips
ruclips.net/video/6dJUnh6N8-U/видео.html
This song always had that mellow gold vibe.💗
Burt Bacharach and Hal David have an extensive catalog. Very good writers. Hal Blaine is featured prominently in the documentary, "The Wrecking Crew". Worth the watch.
I was introduced to the Carpenters in the 70’s by my mum, at that time I was into Yes, ELP etc. Listening to the Carpenters introduced me artists I would never dreamed of listening from my mums likes such as Johnny Cash, Sinatra, Dusty Springfield and Roy Orbison. It wasn’t trendy to like these artists for a kid of my age but with out them a whole of music would of been closed to me
I first heard Rick Moranis sing Close To You a capella in a movie. His wife had left him. He walks into her job singing their wedding song and refuses to stop despite her protests. “I’ll lose my job!” she says to Rick. He even does the ending harmony bit.
I canlisten to then all day! "Touch Me When We're Dancing", "Top of the World", "Bless the Beasts and the Children", For All We Know, "I Won't Last A Day Without You", "Only Yesterday" and "Hurting Each Other" are other suggestions.🥰👍
Good bye to love , which features a fuzz guitar solo, For all we know, very sentimental and Hurting each other, a very amazing lead vocal and well orchestrated, check it out!
Love that fuzz guitar solo in that song,
I saw The Carpenters when I was 17 and that is a great memory. Karen’s voice was unparalleled. She left us way too early.
It's a sweet song for a sweet young man.
This is my favourite Carpenters song until I hear Calling Occupants of Interplanetary Craft, so really second favourite, such a lovely voice.
Love the Carpenters! That's Karen on the drums. I like the songs she sings in her lower register. I hope you do a few Carpenters Christmas songs, they're amazing!
wonder how many people had this and Color my world as a first dance at the wedding song,,,bazillions
My fave Carpenters songs: For All We Know, Rainy Day and Mondays.
Young love! If you are head over heels in love when you are young, even if the other person doesn’t know it, which is often the case, the song is perfect. Unfortunately that rare time in ones life is very brief.
Daniel, I love that you're open to learning about these gems. Keep in mind that this is a song about unrequited love. Emotional not logical. Sadly fitting for Karen, who struggled so much in her short life. Her star burned bright and fast.
AC/DC Just released another song. "REALISE" Gotta play this. AND LOUD🤘🤘🤘❤🇭🇲🇭🇲👍👍👍
The quintessential Burt Bacharach. I remember he had a summer fill in called An Evening With Burt Bacharach. He played this as his final song with a beautiful alternate ending. For unusual reasons I recorded the show off the TV on a home reel to reel tape. I’ve lost the tape but I remember it so well I could sit down and play it today. Probably the only people who remember it are Burt an me. Kinda funny.
My favorite group. I love there songs
It is just called Close To You.
Thanks, Dicon - Karen's voice was epic and there is actually a version of this where you can see her not only singing, but also drumming... :)
Love This Song But We've Only Just Begun Is More My Favorite
A Song for You by Carpenters is truly amazing.
Karen was always a drummer first, vocalist second. It just so happens that she was the finest female vocalist of all time. That's why she was so special, but also so tragic: her most famous talent wasn't her greatest passion.
Much love for The Carpenters! ❤❤❤
I sing this to my blond haired, blue eyed 10 year old nephew all the time. Doesn't have to be romantic, it's just about loving someone so much that they're *perfect* in your eyes, and are the person you want to spend all your time with, and you think the whole world should feel the same way. :)
Loved it and her once when it originally was released!👍🏻❤️☮️
This song is pure magic, with Karen’s velvety contralto voice and Richard’s exquisite arrangement.
Get on a great sound system & check out the original, longer version of “They Long To Be (Close to You)” on Carpenters’ sophomore album “Close to You” - it has a false ending, with a long silence and some great drum fills which always gets cut out of other versions.
“Close to You” the song can be interpreted in a number of ways. The most obvious is the first time a (usually very young) person falls in love - you view your paramour with rose-colored glasses, sure, but after you mature into more realistic relationships, that first time you felt absolute adoration & euphoria is something you never forget. We’re lucky we grow out of this ultra-romantic worship, yes, but you still compare your feelings in future relationships to that first time. But on another level, this could be a song about a young mother bonding with her newborn. I could also see a group of friends or family texting a link to Carpenters’ version of this song - or performing it! - to a loved one on their birthday, and meaning it as a platonic or familial expression of love.
Saw a video online somewhere where Richard Chamberlain’s recording of “Close to You” from the (early ‘60s?) was played. Sounded very much like a straightforward, old-school Sinatra knockoff. If you hear that plus some of the other earlier covers, it makes it easy to appreciate what a genius arranger Richard Carpenter is, because Carpenters really made this cover their own. Same for the original Crockett Bank commercial that birthed “We’ve Only Just Begun” and co-songwriter Bonnie Bramlett’s performance of her original version of “Groupie (Superstar)” - Richard always “Carpenter-ized” these songs in such a fabulous way.
You should check out the Mamas and the Papas for some top notch 60’s close harmonies and great songs in a similar vein.
California Dreaming, Creeque Alley and Dedicated to the one I love would be good starting points and their cover of ‘Dancing in the Street’ (originally by Martha and the Vandellas.)
Dancing in the street was also covered by the Kinks, the Grateful Dead, Van Halen and then notably for live aid by David Bowie and Mick Jagger. That could make for a whole day of comparative reactions although the differences in interpretation are not as great perhaps as some of the others you have reacted to.
One of my favorite vocal groups. I love their arrangement of Dedicated to the One I Love ( especially the ending ). They are really known for California Dreaming and Monday Monday, and those songs didn’t even feature the voice of Cass Elliot.
Puppy love .
I can't remember exactly, but the first song I remember hearing on the radio was either this, "Windy" by The Association, or "Something" by the Beatles. Among the three, though, this holds a special place for me because my mom used to sing it to me.
You are reading too deep and cynically into simple (almost sappy) lyrics about loving someone so completely that they captivate your entire world. Songs such as this weren't made to be picked apart by the jejune minds of youth today; just enjoy and imagine the feeling.
Richard borrowed a lot of Burt Bacharach in this composition,Karen voice still angelic.
Borrowed? Burt and Hal David wrote the tune.
This song was actually a cover. Dionne Warwick originally recorded it.,. It was on the flip side of her record and was not a big hit. Herb Alpert gave Richard the song to record with the instructions to have the three distinctive chords. Richard did the arrangement which Bacharach, the song's composer, said was better than his. Luckily, this song was a hit because the Carpenters probably would have lost their record contract. Their sound was very different than many groups at that time.
I know hardcore prog and metal musicians who privately admit to liking Abba and The Carpenters because of the sheer quality of the performances and production, but also precisely because the songs aren't deep and complicated. It's like top class chefs going home and enjoying pizza or beans on toast - just undemanding comfort food.
Karen is an amazing drummer as well, she considered herself a Drummer who sings
The closet correlation to the Carpenters these days, are Billie Eilish & her brother Finneas ( Billie is amazing ! ) Karen's voice is angelic AF !
A compilation of clips (ALL WITH HER PLAYING THE DRUMS) of cover songs and their own hits you should check out one day.
Watch "Karen Carpenter - The Drummer" on RUclips
ruclips.net/video/6dJUnh6N8-U/видео.html
Some of my favourite songs by them (I really recommend) are “Only Yesterday” “Top of the World” “Goodbye to Love” “Yesterday Once More” just to name a few.... I do believe you can’t go wrong with the Carpenters
Close To You was the second single release from the Carpenters first album in 1969. The first single was called Ticket To Ride which is a Beatles cover but failed to reach the top 40. However it is an amazing cover and well worth a good listen. You should consider reviewing both versions for comparison. Close To You was a #1 hit and stayed at the top for a month straight, making it their biggest hit. Another cover worth hearing is their cover of Desperado by the Eagles. You will like!
Personally, this is my favorite song from the Carpenters. It's a classic and I can honestly say It is one of the best songs all time. Watching her sing and play drums on this song in the video is so cool. Hope you check it okay. Thanks and keep smiling🤘🎸☺
Check out pianist Burt Bacharach (pronounced 'BACK-A-RACK'), one of the BIGGEST music artists (pop/easy listening) of the 1960s! It was a duo of Burt Bacharach (he wrote the music), and Hal David (he did the lyrics). Tons of big worldwide, classic hits, especially with singer Dionne Warwick...Bacharach was a one of a kind talent...
The harmonies are basically Richard and Karen dubbed over 15 times.
A great song! Burt Bacharach is a genius songwriter and a regular hit machine!. And this is one of his best! The song's melody with Karen's excellent vocal is just 'sweet'!
This is a Bacharach/David song covered by just about everybody before The Carpenters made it the most famous one. 50 years ago now!
Brother Richard was the music genius behind Karen's hauntingly angelic voice. He wrote, arranged, produced, sang background and, of course, played the beautiful keyboards for his sister to shine.
When I heard you say that it's someone putting someone else too high up on a pedestal, I thought, when you fall in love so deeply with someone and think so highly of them, this song will make sense.
song of a lifetime
❤
❤️ lovely voice x
Ahhh, grasshopper, do not be too quick to dismiss the feelings of true love....if you're lucky, you'll be smitten (haven't used THAT word in a while!) by another, and you'll have very similar feelings! Loved your reaction, though...as always.
There is a version on You Tube which shows Karen playing the drums while she is singing this song. This was the Carpenters' first hit which went to number one and launched their careers to the top.
A compilation of clips (ALL WITH HER PLAYING THE DRUMS) of cover songs and their own hits you should check out one day.
Watch "Karen Carpenter - The Drummer" on RUclips
ruclips.net/video/6dJUnh6N8-U/видео.html
Speaking of Herb Alpert, you should hear his 1979 masterpiece "Rise". A great instrumental.
Beauty. ❤
It's one of the most saccharine love songs ever, but it was really perfect to my teenaged self. The arrangement sounds very influenced by Burt Bacharach. Lol! In the middle of watching you talk, I just paused to look Burt Bacharach up on Wikipedia to name off some songs it reminds me of, and I see he wrote it! And now you are saying his name.
btw, Herb Alpert, trumpet player, played as a studio musician in the Wrecking Crew, and his albums really sold well, for lots of radio play, he was on TV shows. Incredibly good, but are only instrumentals. Whipped Cream, like many other Alpert songs, is so happy. As is Tijuana Shuffle/Mexican Shuffle. I remember listening to albums while doing grade school homework. The songs El Presidente, and one called El Salud, Amor y Dinero. But favorites by everyone will be The Lonely Bull (!!LOVE ), Rise(!!LOVE), A Taste of Honey, Spanish Flea. Never on Sunday (with lots of good Spanish guitar). Zorba The Greek will make you write your homework very fast (!!LOVE)
OH HELLLLL, MUSH MUSH MUSH!!! LOL :( R.I.P KAREN YOU ANGEL! MORE JONI, MORE JONI, MORE JONI :) ON A HAPPIER NOTE!
Gracias a esta canción conocí la existencia de The Carpenters.
If you liked the trumpet in the middle of this song, you'd love the fuzz guitar in the middle of Goodbye to Love. I'm surprised no one seems to have mentioned that song yet.
Yeah, this is pretty much 9th grade, schoolgirl crush level lyrics. But, when I was a 9th grade schoolgirl, it worked for me! The first of many Carpenters' songs I consider to be my favourites!