TIME STAMPS - 1:38 Richard Chamberlain's Version 3:45 Analysis Start 5:02 Groove Demonstration 8:27 Vocal Ranges 12:44 Carpenters Groove 14:18 Karen Carpenter the drummer 17:06 Impact of Groove on Vocal
I still have no idea how Fil can talk about the details way above my level of understanding and I sit here hanging on every word and it makes perfect sense.
Honestly I doubt Karen was coached or briefed on how she should sing this. She just used her natural unearthly Talent to interpret the singing to the feels of the lyrics. That was her unrivaled Magic ✨
Richard Chamberlain was quite the heart throb back in the day as Dr. Kildare but I forgot that he also sang. The way Richard Carpenter arranged the song in such a masterful way it really gave Karen a chance to express herself fully.
Metal, rock, country, classical,pop is there no genre that this man hasn't covered? Absolutely outstanding amount of knowledge of, not just the guitar, but of music in general. I've said it many times before, thanks Fil for these videos and the amount of genres and styles you cover. They have expanded my playing universe from metal to beyond. 🎸
The "bounce" in The Carpenters version, reflects the lyrical content, about that feeling of Euphoria of first being/falling in love. You kinda bounce around in the initial phases of "being in love".
I am so glad and very impressed by your choice of choosing The Carpenters. I’m a musician and I play in a heavy metal band but i was always very impressed by the Carpenters pristine recordings and the gorgeous vocal stacking plus the genius arrangements by Richard Carpenter.
Joe Osborne on base, Hal Blaine on drums, Chuck Findley on trumpet, Richard Carpenter on piano, and Karen on vocals. Hell of an all-star team and further influenced by Herb Alpert. Masterfully done indeed.
Fil, you are a born teacher! Really enjoyed this comparison. I'm not a musician but you still explained it in a way even I could follow. Thanks - great job!!!
Oh Sweet Merciful Baby Jesus! Richard's vibrato! It sounds like he recorded this at the hardware store while standing on one of those machines that shakes up cans of paint! The intonation sounds okay...no real pitchiness, but a vocal coach definitely would have encouraged him to tame that out of control warble!
Hi Fil! The angels in Heaven smiled when they heard Karen start to sing! I had all her music...the way her brother, Richard put the layers of sound together was beyond magical! I still miss her voice, and just the other day was once again listening to her singing! My kids all played musical instruments, but I was lucky enough to be able to sing, and even my daughter will say I had a lot of Karen’s vocal sounds...first time I shared that tidbit! My daughter was in college, and she would love me to sing for friends! Karen was my inspiration! You should hear me do Top of the World...lol...yes this time I will brag a little! ✌️
Karen Carpenter's voice was like a gift from above. The thing I noticed when the man was singing the song was that his vibrato was just too fast and too pronounced. Maybe back then, it was common for that to be the way that more singers or crooners would sing. I would love to hear you do that song because even in the little bits that you shared my ears could appreciate the tone of your voice without all that excessive vibrato of the original one. It's so fun to watch you use all of your knowledge of music and let us listen to you point out subtle differences that would never have occurred to us. It's the smallest things that can make the song. If a singer can make me believe that feel every word of that song, then I'm going to enjoy it. Sincerely, Carly 🌺 Fil, I always go and watch many versions of the same song and what strikes me about Karen Carpenter is how she would start a note so softly but then modulate that sound into a much louder and more open tone in just that one word that she was singing. What do I know, though? The only thing I can play is the radio. ☺
This beautiful Karen Carpenter song hits men with thoughts of their girls and I'm sure the reverse is true. I am using it from male vocals because ? Well, I'm a man looking for a version to share with my young partners. It bridges culture gap and is relatable from both genders and all ages. Parents to children... .I'm a romantic unashamed MAN who recognizes this true blessing. Strange I listened to Sinatra & Harry Connick Jr who I enjoy, but not this version. He seemed detached from all the glorious meaning. I was shocked to see Wings of Pegasus doing a version by Chamberline at this moment in time. I had no idea Richard was anything but Actor.
@@pullthetrigger9158 It’s really awesome that Fil brings so many Artists into the light of day ,when so many didn’t know they even existed. I know I wouldn’t have appreciated Karen Carpenters voice,until I heard someone else song the same song . She literally gave me goosebumps. She sounds like an Angel. I’m glad Fil introduces so many new and older Artists because we’re never to young nor to old to appreciate this amazing talent. Another great video. ❤️
@@freespiritwithnature4384 Music speaks to our universal soul. I listen mostly to classical or instrumental jazz. My brain was busy down loading songs I didn't think I was paying attention to, hence no more pop unless I am exposed beyond my control. LOL when I start singing along to a song I didn't know I was 'familiar' with.
Excellent metaphor in describing the tone, timber, and phrasing of one of modern music's greatest vocalists! You should compose poetry, if you don't already!
The carpenters should be more talked about then they are, even an 80s metal guy like myself appreciated their sounds. Nice segway to the instructional lesson Fil, great job!
Karen's singing was so smooth and effortless, so easy to listen to. I loved to sing along with her, proof that even second soprano or alto voices are beautiful. Still, she is missed.
My gosh. I didn't know Richard Chamberlain sang. He was best known, as far as I know, for playing Dr. Kildare on the American TV show by the same time. Yes. I'm old enough - just barely - to remember that show. Very glad that someone was smart enough to use the song for the Carpenters years later.
I didn’t know Richard Chamberlain (aka Dr. Kildare )even sang. 😃. I love Karen Carpenter’s version. She’s got a beautiful voice. Almost everyone getting married in the 70’s used it in their wedding. We used the other one. It’s been so long, I can’t remember.it 😂. Oh yeah, For All we know , by the Carpenters was our wedding song. You sing everything so well, Fil.. so fun to listen to you
To me this demonstrates that the arrangement and performance of a song is everything. The Carpenters knew how to get the best out of a song and a singer of Karen's quality would probably make anything sound great.
She could...but what she was queen of was balladry, and Richard clearly knew it. Their first single as Carpenters is a case in point: a ballad arrangement of the Beatles' "Ticket To Ride". Other singers were more versatile (Linda Ronstadt comes immediately to mind), but no one, ever, could turn ballads to solid gold the way Karen could. One of the great injustices in pop music history is that there was never a Carpenters standards album...
I totally agree, I think Karen put the syncopation in the song. She was actually an excellent drummer, many people don’t even know she played drums. But about her voice? “One in a BILLION” like you said, is right. Her voice instantly warms hearts like melting butter... Lol... Excellent video & analysis. Thx!
Very interesting! In school we used to get the assignment "compare and contrast" with all sorts of things. I didn't expect this at all! Hats off to you! You aced it!
Another fantastic choice! You nailed it again! This Brother and Sister were extraordinary and their music will never be dated! Karen was one of the best female vocalist ever! Richard's arranging was genius! Rock on Fil! You are the best on U Tube at what you do!!! Hands Down the best! Your personality and charm are also a pleasure to watch and when you really like something your watching, that smile of yours makes everyone Smile! Peace Brother to you always! GB........... Patriot 1
I think of Richard Chamberlain as an actor first ("Dr. Kildare" on television) that recorded a song as a number of actors in the 1960s seemed to also do.
Me too. It was the thing to do. Speaking of, Fil, you should analyze William Shatner's cover of "MacCarthur's Park" and Leonard Nimoy's unforgettable performance of "Bilbo". Seriously 😳
I met Chamberlain once at a wake - type event. He looked so nervous, a manufactured personality. Too bad. He was probably a nice guy, somewhere way way down.
I am not a musician, don't understand some of the technical nuances of your videos but I find these endlessly fascinating. AND you are so very talented yourself!! Thank you
I'm now addicted to the Carpenter's as I've watched all your videos. The breakdown into all the sophistication with the tempo and swing. Thank you as I love these and Stevie Ray Vaughn was a legend as well and to know how much you love music and wish I could strum like you do!
I’m a huge Carpenters fan from way back (although I wasn’t that old when she died). I had no idea so many others did the song. Your analysis is excellent! Thanks Fil!
👍 Nice analysis! With all of the attention Karen received because of her extraordinary voice I think some people overlooked Richard’s contributions to the sound of the Carpenters. His selection of songs, arrangements, choices of instrumentation and excellent keyboard work ( he never overplayed on a song) all contributed so much to the sound of the Carpenters.
The Richard Chamberlain version is quite likely how Bacharach and David visioned it to be played. Play that song again and line it up with Percy Faith's 1959 monster hit "Theme From A Summer Place" and maybe in 2021 we can begin to understand the influence Summer Place had on so many adult contemporary songs of the early 60's. There are similarities there that the ear cannot deny. Thank God Almighty that The Beatles arrived in New York in 63 (along with some great US groups) on the crest of that British Wave that helped put a stop to the elevator music! The Carpenter's version nails it and it helps define what the 1970's Singer/Songwriter era was all about; as well as ushering in that group that included Elton John, Carole King, James Taylor, Gordon Lightfoot. A Voice come down from Heaven, that's what Karen Carpenter had.
@@bona7001 Thank you so much for adding that bit of information. I was just wondering if Bacharach had ever offered his thoughts about Carpenter's arrangement. It's very gratifying to know that he acknowledged the brilliant interpretation that Richard and Karen performed on his song. It really emphasizes how incredibly talented they were to be able to improve on the work of one of the great song-writer/arrangers of that era.
I learned so much from your analysis tonight Fil. I didn't know of Richard's version at all, only of the Carpenters version. I agree that because of Karen knowing how to play the drums, that influenced the cadence and tempo of the song, and her vocals, (along with the lyrics) just swooned us into a romantic oblivion.... Pure musical genious
Karen was my childhood crush. ❤️ This song and many others performed by the carpenters are some of my earliest memories of music. They take me back to that place and time.
I didn’t even know Richard Chamberlain had recorded any music. He was an actor, to me, not a singer. I’m SO glad the Carpenters made their recording! It’s part of the sound track to my high school years.
Had no idea Richard Chamberlain ( The Thornbirds, the original Jason Bourne) was a singer. Karen Carpenter had one of the best voices, perfect pitch and with such melancholy. And from what I understand she did not really even want to sing at first.
Wow, this was excellent!! I cried. 😭 My mom used to have this song playing, when I was a little kitten. It reminds me of her. I had no idea these were The Carpenters. 😝 it’s a really cool song!
What a surprise! Never knew Richard C. sang & recorded this one! I recall another song he did: "3 Stars Will Shine Tonight"..back in the 60's..& didn't hav so much vibrato/nice one. Always luv the Carpenter's & everything they're performed. Thx 4 this one 🙂🙂💕💕
Ok “the carpenters” Fil you need to check out the single version of “Goodbye to love “ it contains a two part guitar solo played on a Gibson I believe by a fantastic guitarist by the name Tony peluso it has to be the greatest guitar solo ever in a pop ballad……YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPOINTED….it is a classic from the 70s even if you don’t feature it just give it a listen.
Credited for introducing the rock guitar solo in a love ballad. PBS regularly airs a Carpenter's special during their membership campaigns. You should check it out- I think you'll enjoy it.
Richard Chamberlain is new to me. I really liked the vintage sound. The Cranberries put their amazing stamp on this song, too. I still can't listen to Dolores' voice without crying. The Carpenters' version is the one I like the most. Fil, thanks for the analysis 🖤🤘🏽
This has always been hands down my favorite Carpenters song! I never knew it was done previously by Richard Chamberlain. This is some classic Burt Bacharach songwriting! One of my favorite writers.
I remember well when this was released by the Carpenters, being a big Karen Carpenter fan. I never realized that it was a Bacharach tune until now, just assumed it was a Karen/Richard original, and never knew it had been covered (apparently by a LOT of people). Richard Chamberlin is clearly covering it a big band genre form, a genre popular in the 40s and 50s, Frank Sinatra style. He's a swooner. This accounts for the slower tempo and the full backtrack. Chamberlin definitely has the voice for it. There was still a big market for this genre among older folks in '63 and it's quite possible that was the market Bacharach and David had in mind. Karen and Richard were pretty laid back in their music. Karen's voice is SOooo beautiful and her vocal delivery is SOooo smooth and controlled and it's quite impossible not to fall in love with her. I always considered her the front guy :). And they make it sound like it's theirs. Absolutely love this channel, Fil. Excellent look-see! Good job!
Fil, keep on brother, you are awesome. I find your analysis videos so interesting and informative and, man you know your music. I've always been amazed by musicians who can also describe and explain exactly what is going on...such of mix of smarts, tech ability, practice and plain talent and artistry,
I'm a hard rock fan, the Who, Led Zepplin but Karen Carpenter is my favorite singer. Close to You is a great song I listened to over and over in SECRET.
I knew back in the ‘70’s when I was informed by my hard rock older sister that “it’s not cool to like the Carpenters” that that was simply a truckload of happy horse manure! And boy was I right!
I never would have liked the Richard Chamberlain version. But it does sound very possible that Karen found the right adjustments and that's why it was such a hit.
Karen s voice is just so rare, and beautiful, and the Carpenter s arrangement is masterful.Quite a combination.Richard Chamberlain has what we call(I sing),a tremolo,and not a controlled vibrato.Also the arrangement on his recording just isn t sweet.It is ,for me robotic.Sorry Mr.Chamberlain.I want to mention also that Karen s Christmas song",Merry Christmas Darling", brings tears to my eyes.It s straight from heaven.Great job here Fil.Thank you.
I am an avid music lover starting in the middle 1950s . The Chamberlain version piano is basically the same thing played on the song "A Summer Place". I think that style was an attempt to imitate a Rock n Roll sound. Your analysis is a good theoretical description of what used to be called "square". The Carpenters were huge Beatles fans. Me too.
Back before China opened up there was a story of an American who was visiting there, and a Chinese woman told her how much she loved the Carpenters--and burst out into tears when she learned she had died.
Richard Chamberlain, did a great job here with a very lovely vocal, but Karen is well.. Karen Carpenter; the greatest female vocalist of all time, period. Great stuff, Fil. Great work as always.
Chamberlain has a nice, easy voice, with a natural tremolo in it. He also has a decent vibrato on sustained notes. So a natural tremolo with an acquired vibrato on top of it. He’s not moving the song along much.
I saw Richard Chamberlain on a touring version of “My Fair Lady” and he sang with authority on his songs he had in the play. Always a fan of Richard Chamberlain.
I never thought of Chamberland as a singer!! Knew him very very well as an acttor....remember The Thornbirds ??? And Dr. Kildare ?? Wow it was years ago....also..I had no idea that the awesome Bacharach wrote this several years prior to the Carpenters' recording....so interesting...
I just spen an HOUR on this video just to be able to play along as Fil explains it. I have only really done that by myself with TABS or with my guitar teacher. Fil saved me about 60 bucks. This was every bit of a solid guitar lesson for me. Probably "close to two," see what I did there? I will go back to this at least one or two more times I am sure. LOTS OF LESSONS in this 20-min. video. THANKS FIL!!!!!! I owe you about $120, just for this one. Probably owe you my car, as well, based on all your vids.
I saw/heard Richard Chamberlain perform in the stage version of "The Sound of Music" in Chicago about 20 years ago. He was quite good in the role of Captain Von Trapp. I was pleasantly surprised. Not a great voice but talented.
I believe Burt Bacharach wrote this piece for Dionne Warwick while she was a session accompanist. He recognized her talent and helped push her to the top and it drove both of them to the top. Then everyone gave it a shot. It worked well for many performers for a long time.
Some of it I think might be the difference between 1963 and 1970 in pop music. From what I remember, what Richard Chamberlain was doing in 1963 was pretty much what was being played then but by 1970 things had changed. It was a bit early still but that may have been why the Carpenters' version was noticed and got so much airplay. It was a really creative arrangement. I was wondering if Richard produced it knowing what Karen could do on drums but Wikipedia says it was someone else, Jack Daugherty (which makes sense, they were just starting out then). And then there was Karen's voice... I just remember it being a breath of fresh air and very different from what else was being played then.
Richard Chamberlains is so slow & the way it sounds, it honestly sounds like a waltz..(except it's 4/4 instead of 3/4). But i can totally see a waltz going on with the song at that *soft voice/dreadful* tempo & how it's sounding. Carpenters sounds like a fresh breath of air❤.
Al Herbert suggested to Richard Carpenter that the Carpenters record Close to You. Al Herbert also suggested the piano run. Burt Bacharach thought that Richard’s arrangement was superior to his own and greatly improved the song.
Richard Carpenter was superb at arranging music...he was an enormous part of their success. Karen would have been badly wasted on poor or even average arrangements.
Very true. They enhanced each other musically. Phil Ramone was a good producer but he didn't understand how to bring out Karen's best the way Richard did. Somewhere on YT a fella analyzes her solo album. Y' might look it up.
TIME STAMPS -
1:38 Richard Chamberlain's Version
3:45 Analysis Start
5:02 Groove Demonstration
8:27 Vocal Ranges
12:44 Carpenters Groove
14:18 Karen Carpenter the drummer
17:06 Impact of Groove on Vocal
It would no problem for me if they pulled the Chamberain video 😉
Exellwnt and Great analisys💯✔👌👌...congratulations I like so much👍👊
@@janepiper-lunt7655 😂
I had no idea that it was an older song.
I thought this song was written for the Carpenters. Well, we know who wins this contest.
I still have no idea how Fil can talk about the details way above my level of understanding and I sit here hanging on every word and it makes perfect sense.
Honestly I doubt Karen was coached or briefed on how she should sing this. She just used her natural unearthly Talent to interpret the singing to the feels of the lyrics. That was her unrivaled Magic ✨
Her voice is simply sublime. Karen Carpenter was an extraordinary talent. Her voice sounds like an Angel.
Just Gorgeous.❤️❤️❤️.
Never heard Richard Chamberlain's version before. Thanks, Fil! Karen Carpenter. Another super talent taken from us way too soon.
Richard Chamberlain was quite the heart throb back in the day as Dr. Kildare but I forgot that he also sang. The way Richard Carpenter arranged the song in such a masterful way it really gave Karen a chance to express herself fully.
Or did Karen "arrange" the song by feeling it in triplets because she was a drummer?
@@Mooseman327 great take on that!🤗
Of course, RC was more interested in the "boys in town." Not that there's anything wrong that.
@@jml-rj5re
Of course , I remember that.
Metal, rock, country, classical,pop is there no genre that this man hasn't covered?
Absolutely outstanding amount of knowledge of, not just the guitar, but of music in general.
I've said it many times before, thanks Fil for these videos and the amount of genres and styles you cover.
They have expanded my playing universe from metal to beyond.
🎸
There are only two kinds of music- good and bad
Top comment. 👍
I love the solo on 1972's "Goodbye to Love". Beautiful fuzz in that solo.
My favorite Carpenters song!
In my mind, one (two?) of the greatest pop guitar solos of all time.
The "bounce" in The Carpenters version, reflects the lyrical content, about that feeling of Euphoria of first being/falling in love.
You kinda bounce around in the initial phases of "being in love".
I am so glad and very impressed by your choice of choosing The Carpenters. I’m a musician and I play in a
heavy metal band but i was always very impressed by the Carpenters pristine recordings and the gorgeous vocal stacking plus the genius arrangements by Richard Carpenter.
Joe Osborne on base, Hal Blaine on drums, Chuck Findley on trumpet, Richard Carpenter on piano, and Karen on vocals.
Hell of an all-star team and further influenced by Herb Alpert. Masterfully done indeed.
In the early 70's, the Carpenters ruled the radio airwaves here in the States.
@Wings of Pegasus 👍😉 Your analysis is always in-depth, thorough and incredible! ♫♪♪♪♪♥
Even Burt said Richard turned his song from a song to a hit he had a incredible ear and arrangements x
Fil, you are a born teacher! Really enjoyed this comparison. I'm not a musician but you still explained it in a way even I could follow. Thanks - great job!!!
Oh Sweet Merciful Baby Jesus! Richard's vibrato! It sounds like he recorded this at the hardware store while standing on one of those machines that shakes up cans of paint! The intonation sounds okay...no real pitchiness, but a vocal coach definitely would have encouraged him to tame that out of control warble!
Hi Fil! The angels in Heaven smiled when they heard Karen start to sing! I had all her music...the way her brother, Richard put the layers of sound together was beyond magical! I still miss her voice, and just the other day was once again listening to her singing! My kids all played musical instruments, but I was lucky enough to be able to sing, and even my daughter will say I had a lot of Karen’s vocal sounds...first time I shared that tidbit! My daughter was in college, and she would love me to sing for friends! Karen was my inspiration! You should hear me do Top of the World...lol...yes this time I will brag a little! ✌️
Karen Carpenter's voice was like a gift from above. The thing I noticed when the man was singing the song was that his vibrato was just too fast and too pronounced. Maybe back then, it was common for that to be the way that more singers or crooners would sing. I would love to hear you do that song because even in the little bits that you shared my ears could appreciate the tone of your voice without all that excessive vibrato of the original one. It's so fun to watch you use all of your knowledge of music and let us listen to you point out subtle differences that would never have occurred to us. It's the smallest things that can make the song. If a singer can make me believe that feel every word of that song, then I'm going to enjoy it. Sincerely, Carly 🌺
Fil, I always go and watch many versions of the same song and what strikes me about Karen Carpenter is how she would start a note so softly but then modulate that sound into a much louder and more open tone in just that one word that she was singing. What do I know, though? The only thing I can play is the radio. ☺
This beautiful Karen Carpenter song hits men with thoughts of their girls and I'm sure the reverse is true. I am using it from male vocals because ? Well, I'm a man looking for a version to share with my young partners. It bridges culture gap and is relatable from both genders and all ages. Parents to children... .I'm a romantic unashamed MAN who recognizes this true blessing. Strange I listened to Sinatra & Harry Connick Jr who I enjoy, but not this version. He seemed detached from all the glorious meaning. I was shocked to see Wings of Pegasus doing a version by Chamberline at this moment in time. I had no idea Richard was anything but Actor.
@@pullthetrigger9158 It’s really awesome that Fil brings so many Artists into the light of day ,when so many didn’t know they even existed. I know I wouldn’t have appreciated Karen Carpenters voice,until I heard someone else song the same song . She literally gave me goosebumps. She sounds like an Angel.
I’m glad Fil introduces so many new and older Artists because we’re never to young nor to old to appreciate this amazing talent. Another great video. ❤️
@@freespiritwithnature4384 Music speaks to our universal soul. I listen mostly to classical or instrumental jazz. My brain was busy down loading songs I didn't think I was paying attention to, hence no more pop unless I am exposed beyond my control. LOL when I start singing along to a song I didn't know I was 'familiar' with.
@@pullthetrigger9158 Well I’m glad you enjoyed it . Stay safe!❤️
@@freespiritwithnature4384 Karen was arguably the greatest female vocalist of the 20th century. Perhaps, ever.
You are very talented as a musician and theorist! I love your videos!
Thanks!
Tip of the hat to the legends Burt Bacharach and Hal David.
Yes, Burt/Hal were up there with the giants Elton John/Bernie Taupin.
For writing this schlock? They have much better songs but few worse
Thanks for your video. I liked your comparison of both versions. Karen had such a wonderful voice .
Karen’s voice has ZERO stress in it. It’s like caramel on a river of chocolate.
Excellent metaphor in describing the tone, timber, and phrasing of one of modern music's greatest vocalists! You should compose poetry, if you don't already!
@@sunburstmike8745 🙏
@@tjnaples , now I’m hungry 😂
Perfect analogy
That is the best description of her voice.
The carpenters should be more talked about then they are, even an 80s metal guy like myself appreciated their sounds. Nice segway to the instructional lesson Fil, great job!
I saw the Carpenters live in 1972/3? at the O'Keefe Centre in Toronto, they were amazing, Karen Carpenters voice was beautiful, perfect.
Karen's singing was so smooth and effortless, so easy to listen to. I loved to sing along with her, proof that even second soprano or alto voices are beautiful. Still, she is missed.
Silky smooth is the perfect description of Karen’s voice. I had no idea of Richard Chamberlain’s version. I remember him as Dr. Kildare!! Thanks Fil.
Thought he looked familiar but I didn’t know he sang. He’s pretty to look at, but not like I remembered him. Course we’re hind sight of 50+ years
My gosh. I didn't know Richard Chamberlain sang. He was best known, as far as I know, for playing Dr. Kildare on the American TV show by the same time. Yes. I'm old enough - just barely - to remember that show. Very glad that someone was smart enough to use the song for the Carpenters years later.
I didn’t know Richard Chamberlain (aka Dr. Kildare )even sang. 😃. I love Karen Carpenter’s version. She’s got a beautiful voice. Almost everyone getting married in the 70’s used it in their wedding. We used the other one. It’s been so long, I can’t remember.it 😂. Oh yeah, For All we know , by the Carpenters was our wedding song. You sing everything so well, Fil.. so fun to listen to you
@@konstantia1607 , no it’s called “For All We Know” by the Carpenters. Hi Konstantia. 👋
To me this demonstrates that the arrangement and performance of a song is everything. The Carpenters knew how to get the best out of a song and a singer of Karen's quality would probably make anything sound great.
She could...but what she was queen of was balladry, and Richard clearly knew it. Their first single as Carpenters is a case in point: a ballad arrangement of the Beatles' "Ticket To Ride". Other singers were more versatile (Linda Ronstadt comes immediately to mind), but no one, ever, could turn ballads to solid gold the way Karen could. One of the great injustices in pop music history is that there was never a Carpenters standards album...
I totally agree, I think Karen put the syncopation in the song. She was actually an excellent drummer, many people don’t even know she played drums. But about her voice? “One in a BILLION” like you said, is right. Her voice instantly warms hearts like melting butter... Lol... Excellent video & analysis. Thx!
Very interesting! In school we used to get the assignment "compare and contrast" with all sorts of things. I didn't expect this at all! Hats off to you! You aced it!
🤘
🙌
Thanks for the comparison/contrast.
Very few " music lovers " can appreciate all styles of music the way Fil can ....Karen Carpenter was great ...and a really good drummer.
Another fantastic choice! You nailed it again! This Brother and Sister were extraordinary and their music will never be dated! Karen was one of the best female vocalist ever! Richard's arranging was genius!
Rock on Fil!
You are the best on U Tube at what you do!!!
Hands Down the best!
Your personality and charm are also a pleasure to watch and when you really like something your watching, that smile of yours makes everyone Smile!
Peace Brother to you always!
GB...........
Patriot 1
I think of Richard Chamberlain as an actor first ("Dr. Kildare" on television) that recorded a song as a number of actors in the 1960s seemed to also do.
Me too. It was the thing to do. Speaking of, Fil, you should analyze William Shatner's cover of "MacCarthur's Park" and Leonard Nimoy's unforgettable performance of "Bilbo". Seriously 😳
I met Chamberlain once at a wake - type event.
He looked so nervous, a manufactured personality.
Too bad. He was probably a nice guy, somewhere way way down.
I never knew Richard Chamberlain was a singer! I only knew him as an actor. Love this in-depth analysis.
I am not a musician, don't understand some of the technical nuances of your videos but I find these endlessly fascinating. AND you are so very talented yourself!! Thank you
I'm now addicted to the Carpenter's as I've watched all your videos. The breakdown into all the sophistication with the tempo and swing. Thank you as I love these and Stevie Ray Vaughn was a legend as well and to know how much you love music and wish I could strum like you do!
I did not know he sang. Loved Shogun baby.
Nice pickup and explanation about the hi hat, and making the song swing.
I’m a huge Carpenters fan from way back (although I wasn’t that old when she died). I had no idea so many others did the song. Your analysis is excellent! Thanks Fil!
👍 Nice analysis! With all of the attention Karen received because of her extraordinary voice I think some people overlooked Richard’s contributions to the sound of the Carpenters. His selection of
songs, arrangements, choices of instrumentation and excellent keyboard work ( he never overplayed on a song) all contributed so much to the sound of the Carpenters.
The Richard Chamberlain version is quite likely how Bacharach and David visioned it to be played. Play that song again and line it up with Percy Faith's 1959 monster hit "Theme From A Summer Place" and maybe in 2021 we can begin to understand the influence Summer Place had on so many adult contemporary songs of the early 60's. There are similarities there that the ear cannot deny. Thank God Almighty that The Beatles arrived in New York in 63 (along with some great US groups) on the crest of that British Wave that helped put a stop to the elevator music! The Carpenter's version nails it and it helps define what the 1970's Singer/Songwriter era was all about; as well as ushering in that group that included Elton John, Carole King, James Taylor, Gordon Lightfoot. A Voice come down from Heaven, that's what Karen Carpenter had.
The Beatles' first album actually had a Bacharach composition on it (Baby It's You - with John leading).
Bacharach was embarrassed with his arrangement here. He's stated Richard Carpenters arrangement and version was a master-stroke.
@@bona7001 Thank you so much for adding that bit of information. I was just wondering if Bacharach had ever offered his thoughts about Carpenter's arrangement. It's very gratifying to know that he acknowledged the brilliant interpretation that Richard and Karen performed on his song. It really emphasizes how incredibly talented they were to be able to improve on the work of one of the great song-writer/arrangers of that era.
I'm going to show this to my Parkinson's sister who was a soprano soloist. She loves your vocal analyses, especially when you put up the piano 💜
As always, your demonstrations of guitar and voice are fabulous. Congrats on reaching 178K subscribers!!!!!
Thanks!
I learned so much from your analysis tonight Fil. I didn't know of Richard's version at all, only of the Carpenters version. I agree that because of Karen knowing how to play the drums, that influenced the cadence and tempo of the song, and her vocals, (along with the lyrics) just swooned us into a romantic oblivion.... Pure musical genious
Thanks Fil. Like The Carpenters. ♥️
I didn't even know Chamberlain could sing! Thanks, Fil! 👏
He can’t!!
Karen was my childhood crush. ❤️ This song and many others performed by the carpenters are some of my earliest memories of music. They take me back to that place and time.
I didn’t even know Richard Chamberlain had recorded any music. He was an actor, to me, not a singer. I’m SO glad the Carpenters made their recording! It’s part of the sound track to my high school years.
Had no idea Richard Chamberlain ( The Thornbirds, the original Jason Bourne) was a singer. Karen Carpenter had one of the best voices, perfect pitch and with such melancholy. And from what I understand she did not really even want to sing at first.
Wow, this was excellent!! I cried. 😭 My mom used to have this song playing, when I was a little kitten. It reminds me of her. I had no idea these were The Carpenters. 😝 it’s a really cool song!
Always enjoy your thorough analyses.
What a surprise! Never knew Richard C. sang & recorded this one! I recall another song he did: "3 Stars Will Shine Tonight"..back in the 60's..& didn't hav so much vibrato/nice one. Always luv the Carpenter's & everything they're performed. Thx 4 this one 🙂🙂💕💕
Nothing more fascinating than watching great talent appreciate great talent ❤
Richard Carpenter related the change of beat was a “shuffle”
I got to see them perform in the early 70s. Karen played the drums and Richard played the piano the entire time they were onstage.
Ok “the carpenters” Fil you need to check out the single version of “Goodbye to love “ it contains a two part guitar solo played on a Gibson I believe by a fantastic guitarist by the name Tony peluso it has to be the greatest guitar solo ever in a pop ballad……YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPOINTED….it is a classic from the 70s even if you don’t feature it just give it a listen.
Yes, excellent guitar solos on a Gibson ES335.
Have done! I discussed this solo at some point on the channel but I can't remember when!
I just listened to this from Greatest Hits album on RUclips. Guitar solo brought tears to my eyes. Very emotional playing. Thanks for mentioning.
Credited for introducing the rock guitar solo in a love ballad. PBS regularly airs a Carpenter's special during their membership campaigns. You should check it out- I think you'll enjoy it.
Guitarist was Tony Peluso who sadly died in 2010...
Going back and reading through the comments here I am surprise how many people didn't know that Richard Chamberlain could sing?
I didn't know Doctor Kildare could sing like that! Thanks!
Richard Chamberlain is new to me. I really liked the vintage sound.
The Cranberries put their amazing stamp on this song, too. I still can't listen to Dolores' voice without crying.
The Carpenters' version is the one I like the most.
Fil, thanks for the analysis 🖤🤘🏽
This has always been hands down my favorite Carpenters song! I never knew it was done previously by Richard Chamberlain. This is some classic Burt Bacharach songwriting! One of my favorite writers.
In one word...awesome. Thanks Fil.
That was a great bit of teaching.
I remember well when this was released by the Carpenters, being a big Karen Carpenter fan. I never realized that it was a Bacharach tune until now, just assumed it was a Karen/Richard original, and never knew it had been covered (apparently by a LOT of people).
Richard Chamberlin is clearly covering it a big band genre form, a genre popular in the 40s and 50s, Frank Sinatra style. He's a swooner. This accounts for the slower tempo and the full backtrack. Chamberlin definitely has the voice for it. There was still a big market for this genre among older folks in '63 and it's quite possible that was the market Bacharach and David had in mind.
Karen and Richard were pretty laid back in their music. Karen's voice is SOooo beautiful and her vocal delivery is SOooo smooth and controlled and it's quite impossible not to fall in love with her. I always considered her the front guy :). And they make it sound like it's theirs.
Absolutely love this channel, Fil. Excellent look-see! Good job!
Thanks!
That throaty vibrato of Richard's reminds me of Edith Piaf.
Super intelligent analysis again, great work Fil, love both versions. : }
Carpenters, Wonderful Video Fil.
Fil, keep on brother, you are awesome. I find your analysis videos so interesting and informative and, man you know your music. I've always been amazed by musicians who can also describe and explain exactly what is going on...such of mix of smarts, tech ability, practice and plain talent and artistry,
I'm a hard rock fan, the Who, Led Zepplin but Karen Carpenter is my favorite singer. Close to You is a great song I listened to over and over in SECRET.
I knew back in the ‘70’s when I was informed by my hard rock older sister that “it’s not cool to like the Carpenters” that that was simply a truckload of happy horse manure! And boy was I right!
I just love listening to Fil sing.
I never would have liked the Richard Chamberlain version. But it does sound very possible that Karen found the right adjustments and that's why it was such a hit.
Karen s voice is just so rare, and beautiful, and the Carpenter s arrangement is masterful.Quite a combination.Richard Chamberlain has what we call(I sing),a tremolo,and not a controlled vibrato.Also the arrangement on his recording just isn t sweet.It is ,for me robotic.Sorry Mr.Chamberlain.I want to mention also that Karen s Christmas song",Merry Christmas Darling", brings tears to my eyes.It s straight from heaven.Great job here Fil.Thank you.
I love information like this. Thank you!
I am an avid music lover starting in the middle 1950s . The Chamberlain version piano is basically the same thing played on the song "A Summer Place". I think that style was an attempt to imitate a Rock n Roll sound. Your analysis is a good theoretical description of what used to be called "square". The Carpenters were huge Beatles fans. Me too.
I just love wings of pegasus more and more. Such a common sense approach to great songs
I'm at a Branson Missouri show...thanks Fil
Hi Mark! Lucky you! Enjoy!
@@lynndow3185 Snarkyness...........sounds like a Branson Missouri Show ..hello Lynn..Happy 4th
Back before China opened up there was a story of an American who was visiting there, and a Chinese woman told her how much she loved the Carpenters--and burst out into tears when she learned she had died.
Richard Chamberlain, did a great job here with a very lovely vocal, but Karen is well.. Karen Carpenter; the greatest female vocalist of all time, period. Great stuff, Fil. Great work as always.
Fantastic analysis !
Chamberlain has a nice, easy voice, with a natural tremolo in it. He also has a decent vibrato on sustained notes. So a natural tremolo with an acquired vibrato on top of it.
He’s not moving the song along much.
Thanks Fil, for your easy to understand, great and deliberate "Groove" explanation! Much appreciated! :)
Richard Chamberlain's version was definitely a song of its time. Loved this analyses. Thank you.
I saw Richard Chamberlain on a touring version of “My Fair Lady” and he sang with authority on his songs he had in the play. Always a fan of Richard Chamberlain.
I never thought of Chamberland as a singer!! Knew him very very well as an acttor....remember The Thornbirds ??? And Dr. Kildare ?? Wow it was years ago....also..I had no idea that the awesome Bacharach wrote this several years prior to the Carpenters' recording....so interesting...
Great analysis and explanations.
I just spen an HOUR on this video just to be able to play along as Fil explains it. I have only really done that by myself with TABS or with my guitar teacher. Fil saved me about 60 bucks. This was every bit of a solid guitar lesson for me. Probably "close to two," see what I did there? I will go back to this at least one or two more times I am sure. LOTS OF LESSONS in this 20-min. video. THANKS FIL!!!!!! I owe you about $120, just for this one. Probably owe you my car, as well, based on all your vids.
Haha no problem!
You are sort of a historian. You're very knowledgeable for a young man and you teach me new things even though I'm 60.
Thanks!
Great break down.
I saw/heard Richard Chamberlain perform in the stage version of "The Sound of Music" in Chicago about 20 years ago. He was quite good in the role of Captain Von Trapp. I was pleasantly surprised. Not a great voice but talented.
I really enjoyed that Fil. Have you ever thought of covering the Carpenters version yourself? I think you could hit it out of the park.
I believe Burt Bacharach wrote this piece for Dionne Warwick while she was a session accompanist. He recognized her talent and helped push her to the top and it drove both of them to the top. Then everyone gave it a shot. It worked well for many performers for a long time.
Chamberlain also recorded "Dream,Dream,Dream," (Boudreau Bryan)
Some of it I think might be the difference between 1963 and 1970 in pop music. From what I remember, what Richard Chamberlain was doing in 1963 was pretty much what was being played then but by 1970 things had changed. It was a bit early still but that may have been why the Carpenters' version was noticed and got so much airplay. It was a really creative arrangement. I was wondering if Richard produced it knowing what Karen could do on drums but Wikipedia says it was someone else, Jack Daugherty (which makes sense, they were just starting out then). And then there was Karen's voice... I just remember it being a breath of fresh air and very different from what else was being played then.
Enjoyed your guitar/Carpenters version!
Richard Chamberlains is so slow & the way it sounds, it honestly sounds like a waltz..(except it's 4/4 instead of 3/4). But i can totally see a waltz going on with the song at that *soft voice/dreadful* tempo & how it's sounding. Carpenters sounds like a fresh breath of air❤.
Al Herbert suggested to Richard Carpenter that the Carpenters record Close to You. Al Herbert also suggested the piano run. Burt Bacharach thought that Richard’s arrangement was superior to his own and greatly improved the song.
Thank you for improving your listeningability.
Richard Carpenter was superb at arranging music...he was an enormous part of their success. Karen would have been badly wasted on poor or even average arrangements.
Very true. They enhanced each other musically. Phil Ramone was a good producer but he didn't understand how to bring out Karen's best the way Richard did. Somewhere on YT a fella analyzes her solo album. Y' might look it up.
Arranging and producing music were Richard Carpenter's forte
Is this Richard Chamberlain the great actor?I never knew he was also a singer..but this is a childhood favorite ..just a beautiful song..
Yes it's him!
So much better when the beat follows the syllables of the lyrics instead of the other way around. Thanks for pointing out how that works. Great video!