If there's an existence beyond this physical world, I hope Karen is aware of how many people still love and miss her - even those who were born after her passing. I swear, hearing her incredible voice could cause fighting armies to drop their weapons
Still blows me away that I’m watching strangers of another generation listening to music from my youth on a device from science fiction. Life is amazing. ❤
Tell me about it. When I was in high school, a friend of mine (who ran the science club) sold donuts at school, and with the proceeds eventually bought a computer. He had to assemble it himself (soldering iron and all) and its processing power was so weak I think most modern cell phones have more.
My son and I were just talking about this very thing, about all the technology that has come into use since I was a child 1960s and then from the 80s when he was a child, stuff we never imagined.
@@davidnicholas7516 Yep, when I was about 14 my school got a Radio Shack computer. They kept it in the math resource center. Guess where I spent most of my free periods? :). BTW, yes, today's cell phones are FAR FAR FAR more powerful than those things were. A cell phone today could easily outperform a Cray supercomputer from the early 80s. Totally amazing.
Their’s that velvet voice of Karen Carpenter and magic pen and beautiful arrangements of Richard Carpenter , so great to have experienced The Carpenters as a young kid and teen, they set the standard for beautiful music! Love hearing those drums by Karen! Rest in peace beautiful Karen, your beautiful musical legacy will last for generations to come!
The guy who starred in phantom of the paradise, wrote that song, as well as the lyrics for evergreen, a hit for Barbara Streisand,the one and only Paul williams.
This is one of six tunes they recorded that were written by Paul Williams. He also wrote We've Only Just Begun, Rainy Days and Mondays, Close to You, I Kept on Loving You, and Let Me Be the One. Karen didn't play drums on this tune. That's Hal Blaine, probably most famous for the drum riff from 50 Ways to Leave Your Lover by Paul Simon.
@@Coowallsky it was in one of the Carpenters videos. If you Google though Paul McCartney on Karen Carpenter you’ll read about him talking about her and also John Lennon actually ran into her in a night club in LA.telling her how much he liked her voice as well.
It's funny but I remember in the 70s that many critics dismissed The Carpenters as a "soft rock" fluff band. But they failed to take into account Richard's superior arrangements and Karen's ethereal way of making every song personal and universal at the same time, and of course that she was one of the great vocalists, male or female of our time. I'm glad I discovered her and the wonderful band back in the day and it's such a joy to see young people be tuned into the magic.
Interviewer to Paul Williams: "You have written several songs The Carpenters have used. Aren't they very 'vanilla''?" Paul Williams: "Isn't vanilla a wonderful flavor!"
I can count the few times that I have shed tears when someone I didn't actually know died. One of those times was when I heard that Karen died. Her voice was a part of the soundtrack of my younger years and my life was indelibly impacted by her. Also, I must give a shout out to Richard's piano playing.
I was too young to know who she was when she died. I wasn't introduced to her until the late '80s, whenever it was that "The Karen Carpenter Story" aired on TV. My dad suddenly became obsessed with her and started listening to all of her music, and his obsession passed on to me. Celebrity deaths don't really affect me, but it would have affected me had I known who she was at the time, and Richard's death, when it happens (hopefully later rather than sooner) will also affect me.
This was the first time I have ever heard that stunning emotional piano solo at the end of this song, as it was probably cut to shorten it for the air-time radio version. WOW! We all recognize and appreciate the unbelievable talent of Karen's voice, but Richard brilliance on the piano is often overlooked. The Carpenters had a string of hit singles and albums through the early 1970s, and Richard composed many of the popular tunes that that paved their way to stardom.
Hi Carol, that piano bit was “newly” added to the track when the song was released in the compilation Singles 1969-1981 (released in 2000) and it was meant to link the song to Close To You, the next track, which starts with piano too, and the piano bit added was a perfect segue as it was modulated to the correct key that synched to the opening bars of Close to You. The original album and single (released in 1972 and 1974, respectively) did not have this piano part.
@@calvinmurty8273 - Thanks for that info, Calvin! I should have known it was something like that because I had the original album and listened to it all the time!☺
It’s sad to think about the amazing future music we were denied from hearing due to her tragic and untimely passing. However, her death brought more public awareness to the dangers of eating disorders than probably any other event. Even most of us who worked in healthcare had never heard of anorexia and bulimia until it became publicly known because of Karen and, in death she probably ended up saving thousands of lives because of increased awareness and families learning the warning signs.
That woman's voice and that man's arrangements! What an amazing pair of artists! I haven't heard this one in ages and it's taken me right back to the 1972, listening to this at night when I should have been sleeping. Portable A.M. transistor radio under the pillow, volume on low and just grooving in dead of night. The piano at the end, repeating the chorus, slowly and with a last minute key change to close out, will get you every time. Wistful, thoughtful, romantic. Richard's work was genius.
Karen Carpenter had this incredible ability to make you feel like she was singing directly to you. In fact, when Herb Alpert of A & M Records first heard a demo track of the Carpenters, he laid back on his couch and closed his eyes. When Karen's voice came on, she sounded as if she was right there ... on the couch ... singing to him.
I read somewhere that when Herb Alpert learns Karen will be in the studio to record, his schedule would some how clear out. people find him in the booth.
Good choices, i'd also like to see reactions to Calling Occupants of Interplanetary craft (full song) which is strange but wonderful, Please Mr Postman & This masquerade
This is the first time I've ever heard the album (long) version of the song. Radio stations always cut off the piano at the end to make time for commercials. Thank you.
I still secretly compare all singers I hear (pro and amateur) to Karen. While there are many lovely voices from ladies out there (Whitney, Adele, Barbra, Celine, Linda Ronstadt), no one sounds like Karen. Even as a 10-yr old kid, I knew she was something special. My Mom used to listen to the radio in the kitchen (Top 40 usually) when I was a kid/teen, and Karen was on a lot! She is just perfection to me. Thank you for a lovely reaction to one of my fav Carpenters songs. Love you guys! 💕
Just like a perfectly tuned instrument, Karen’s voice was absolutely perfect in its tone, pitch, and you could understand each and every word clearly…… Man this song takes me back to a time when this old man was an innocent child. Thank you for that. sorry about the edit this song got me a little upset remembering the people I’ve lost over along the way…
Dominic...me too. Her music saved my life as a kid from a horrible childhood. I would lock myself in my room and listened to her and my father called me a pansy.
Karen & Richard Carpenter were truly the dynamic duo. So many wonderful songs. What a legacy of excellence. Richard is a modern day Mozart. His compositions & arrangements are on par with the great composers of yesteryear. Karen had the voice to make a Nightingale weep & swoon. Don't forget, Karen was an amazing drummer! Miss Carpenter had left this mortal coil to soon. Such a beautiful lady who gave us so much of herself. God Bless the gracious Songbird. Thank you Richard & Karen! You have enriched my life.
I’m thankful for having a childhood that included listening to incredible music from artists like The Carpenters this happened to be my favorite song of theirs. It was the song the disc jockeys played on the air after they announced Karen’s untimely passing in February 4, 1983 . Hard to believe we are approaching the 40th anniversary of her death.
I've loved the Carpenters since I was a child. I cried so much when she passed away and dedicated myself to learning as many of their songs as possible. Thanks for reviewing so many awesome artists!
That's how I feel about my hubby! Beautiful song..I've known the Carpenters my whole life..still remember singing to Top of the World at a very young age. Love ❤️ 😍 the Carpenters forever!!
Her voice is so beautiful it makes me dizzy. And his piano and arrangements were incredible. Also the great musicians in their band. Listen to Only Yesterday it's my favorite Carpenters song. Also Solitaire I think is one of Karen's most powerful vocal moments.
It's Nice to see the Love y'all have for each other... There was a point in the Lyrics where we heard "I can take all the madness the World has to give me, but I won't Last a day without you" and J turns to face Amber and Just SMILES before facing front again❤
noticed too :) and even before that was praying for them and their kids.. I had 26 years with my husband (until cancer :( ).. I know the demands on our lives.. I pray for the very best for this music sensitive couple
I think I've listened to all the Carpenter reactions you have done and enjoyed them all. I am 64 yrs old and go all the way back to a very young age when a girl I had a massive crush on introduced me to The Carpenters. The girl moved away I was sad but I always have The Carpenters....Thanks guys...Bless you
Lovely memory .Have you ever tried to locate her ? I have a few similar memories like yours ,I'm 62 and I managed to find an old girlfriend from way back when I was 15 😁🎶
Please please, could you leave a tribute day to honor Karen's passing 40yrs ago this February 4th 1983. She's just something special. Even a great drum compilation. She's just amazing. 40 yrs ppl begin to forget her. She was always on TV specials. Take a look at 1980 TV medley from music, music, music. Anything to recognize her contribution which is beginning to diminish but not in my heart
I totally agree with you on that. After 40 years of her leaving this earth, they are still appreciated and are still selling albums because their music is Timeless
I'm happy to announce that they are releasing a new movie based on karen carpenter from the author of little girl blue autobiography. It will be introduced at the Santa Barbra film festival coming up in February
I know I keep repeating this but Karen was such a great drummer. A good friend who is a very respected recording drummer always talks up her skills and will ware a Carpenters shirt to a gigs. Lol. Richard is as a great composer & piano player Thanks for another great song.
When I was young I'd listen to the radio waitin for my favorite songs When they played I'd sing along, it made me smile Those were such happy times and not so long ago how I wondered where they'd gone But they're back again just like a long lost friend all the songs I loved so well Every sha-la-la-la every wo-o-wo-o still shines Every shing-a-ling-a-ling that they're startin to sing, so fine When they get to the part wheres he's breakin her heart it can really make me cry, just like before, its yesterday once more Lookin back on how it was in years gone by And the good times that I had Makes today seem rather sad, so much has changed It was songs of love that I would sing to then And I'd memorize each word Those old melodies still sound so good to me As they melt the years away Every sha-la-la-la, Every wo-o-wo-o still shines Every shing-a-ling-a-ling that they're startin to sing, so fine All my best memories come back clearly to me Some can even make me cry, just like before Its yesterday once more Yesterday once more Released in 1973 I was 13 at the time when I'd listen to the radio waitin for my favorite songs. I was aware of the Carpenters since 1970 when Close to You and We've only Just Begun was released.
The Carpenters are my favorite group of all time. Richard’s stellar piano playing and Karen’s incomparable voice. She was the best singer who ever lived. You really should review You’re the One.” It might even bring Jay to tears!
The piano solo at the end is a specially recorded link by Richard Carpenter for the album "Singles 1969-1981" released in 2000. It links this song straight into "Close to You".
Amber, you said it perfectly. Richard's piano solo at the end is the cherry on top! Glad to see J. starting to appreciate the softer side of music. Don't worry, you can still rock the AC/DC and like ballads.
The piano coda was added by Richard Carpenter years later in a remix/remastered version, in what feels like a memoriam of sorts. If you liked it give a listen to "Karen's Theme," his instrumental tribute to his sister. He was/is quite a talented pianist. Richard arranged all the Carpenters' music, and was the musical director of the group in addition to contributing harmony vocals in most of their songs. His contribution, sometimes overlooked, was central to their special sound. Karen's voice and presence were, of course, unique and magical. They were a special duo.
When you get a chance listen to "Goodbye to Love" one of the first ever "power ballads," that they received some blow back from because it was at the time a unique pairing of heavy guitar with the Carpenters type of music.
Karen and Richard Carpenter, they graced us with their music for a very brief time, what we have is music from heaven, before she left. Thank you Karen Thanks A&J for making Me Smile.
That was sweet Jay, the way you turn to your wife Amber and pointed at her, when the Carpenters sang, I could take the madness this world has to give but I won't last a day without. you.
Yesterday, an iconic Australian singer, Renee Geyer died. She had the most amazing soulful voice. It wouls be wonderful if you could play her singing "It's a Man's World" from the 70's.
1974. It was recorded in 1972. Then when Karen and Richard were exhausted from touring they took this, added a few things and released as a single in Spring 1974 the way I heard the story. They just kept coming with it songs throughout the 1970's. Written by Paul Williams and music composed by Roger Nichols. They included it on their 1972 album A Song for You, but it would not be released as a single until 1974. All backup harmony vocals are Karen and Richard.
a song by them that is not well known is called Road Ode. Karen sings what it's like to be on the road for so long. Great lyrics and some really good arrangements with the band
Karen had an effortless ease about her singing. She looks like she is talking, but what comes out of her mouth is pure perfection. She was such a talented musician and singer. I can still remember where I was and what I was doing when I found out she had passed away. Thanks so much for this trip to the past. You guys are so great. Love you guys
This was another Paul Williams/Roger Nichols song who wrote We've Only Just Begun and Rainy Days and Mondays. It peaked at #1 on The Adult Contemporary chart and #11 on the Billboard Top 100. They released it as a single almost 2 years after A Song For You album was released.
Two Carpenters songs that you may not hear mentioned often but that are two of my very favorites are “This Masquerade” and “Goodbye To Love.” Please give them a listen! You won’t regret it!
Ah, Goodbye to Love, with that contrast of heavenly vocals & ripping guitar solo that resembled Sonic Youth!! Many called it the greatest guitar solo ever...
Such a huge part of the 70s sound and happy memories of carefree childhood. You’ve done a lot of great songs but don’t stop here there are many Carpenters hits to go. Amber I believe you would especially love “Sing” it features Karen and a children's choir and is a happy upbeat tune. I’d react to the original studio version but if you want to be futher blown away by the talented Ms. Carpenter, find and watch a version on you tube from a 1974 concert in Japan. Karen sings the song in Japanese (flawlessly) and with a Japanese girls chorus. Another classic you shouldn’t miss is “Top of the World”
For me, I think the best showcase of Karen’s voice is “Only Yesterday”, (not to be confused with, “Yesterday Once More”) “Hurting Each Other” is also another you should check out for your next Carpenter reactions.
I love the carpenters! I’ve got to say one of my favorite songs, is called you. I don’t know that it’s a very popular song of theirs or well-known, but I really love the words, and of course her voice. If you can find a copy of it somewhere would be cool for you to react to it.
There is comfort food and there is comfort music. It's done by the Carpenters. The arrangements and oh, her singing. Perfect and pure. Musical paradise. So sad we lost her too soon.
One of the most beautiful voices ever. The Carpenters recorded some beautiful songs that were not released as singles. "I Just Fall In Love Again" was written for the Carpenters and was not released as a single because it was considered too long for Top 40 radio by A&M Records. Dusty Springfield and Anne Murray would go on to cover this song with some success but, for me, it just doesn't compare to the original by the Carpenters
I got married June 22, 1975 and "I Won't Last a Day Without You" was our first dance. In the years since, I always manage to play this song for my wife on our anniversary - on one of my sound systems at home, in the car on the way to work or going out to celebrate, or have the piano player at the restaurant we're at play it for us, etc. After all these years it is always special and will always be "our" song. Thanks for playing it.
In February 1983, I was driving to work, listening to the radio, and this song came on. And the DJ said it was by "the late Karen Carpenter." That was how I heard that she had died, and as beautiful as this song is, I always associate it with that moment, driving to work half blind because I was crying so much. This was before the internet, before the days of TMI, her health issues may have made it into the tabloids, but I didn't see it -- I had no idea she was even sick. I'd had dreams of meeting her and maybe even one day singing with her, so I was devastated by her death. I've never heard that ending before! I love that! On the album I have, it just ends when she finishes singing.
If there's an existence beyond this physical world, I hope Karen is aware of how many people still love and miss her - even those who were born after her passing. I swear, hearing her incredible voice could cause fighting armies to drop their weapons
Wonderfully said 😊
Amen. May she be held as fondly in God's memory as she is in ours.
It's the voice that greets you when you cross over
AMEN!! Such a loss for us all!!
@@vickybrackin7483 But what a heavenly choir awaits us.
Still blows me away that I’m watching strangers of another generation listening to music from my youth on a device from science fiction. Life is amazing. ❤
Tell me about it. When I was in high school, a friend of mine (who ran the science club) sold donuts at school, and with the proceeds eventually bought a computer. He had to assemble it himself (soldering iron and all) and its processing power was so weak I think most modern cell phones have more.
My son and I were just talking about this very thing, about all the technology that has come into use since I was a child 1960s and then from the 80s when he was a child, stuff we never imagined.
Isn’t it!
Isn’t it!
@@davidnicholas7516 Yep, when I was about 14 my school got a Radio Shack computer. They kept it in the math resource center. Guess where I spent most of my free periods? :). BTW, yes, today's cell phones are FAR FAR FAR more powerful than those things were. A cell phone today could easily outperform a Cray supercomputer from the early 80s. Totally amazing.
They called her "One Take Carpenter". She nailed it first time, every time. This is pure perfection unlike the auto-tune garbage of today,
Her voice is considered a contralto, a rare very deep woman's voice. It is part of what makes her voice so beautiful.
yes, and yet she could also hit high notes, depending on the song.. her range was very good.. the warmth in her voice is what I love.
Their’s that velvet voice of Karen Carpenter and magic pen and beautiful arrangements of Richard Carpenter , so great to have experienced The Carpenters as a young kid and teen, they set the standard for beautiful music! Love hearing those drums by Karen! Rest in peace beautiful Karen, your beautiful musical legacy will last for generations to come!
The guy who starred in phantom of the paradise, wrote that song, as well as the lyrics for evergreen, a hit for Barbara Streisand,the one and only Paul williams.
This is one of six tunes they recorded that were written by Paul Williams. He also wrote We've Only Just Begun, Rainy Days and Mondays, Close to You, I Kept on Loving You, and Let Me Be the One. Karen didn't play drums on this tune. That's Hal Blaine, probably most famous for the drum riff from 50 Ways to Leave Your Lover by Paul Simon.
@@willdwyer6782 Close To You was Bacharach who just passed. Ordinary Fool is another Paul Williams song that they recorded.
Paul Williams yes a great songwriter but let's not forget Little Enos Burdette 😂
Paul Mcartney said she has the best female voice in the world,melodic,tuneful and distinctive.
John Lennon also loved her voice
He actually told her so in person
Is there an article or video that shows him saying that?
@@Coowallsky it was mentioned in one of the comments
@@elizabethfranco1284 Cool. Do you know what video has that in the comments?
@@Coowallsky it was in one of the Carpenters videos. If you Google though Paul McCartney on Karen Carpenter you’ll read about him talking about her and also John Lennon actually ran into her in a night club in LA.telling her how much he liked her voice as well.
It's funny but I remember in the 70s that many critics dismissed The Carpenters as a "soft rock" fluff band. But they failed to take into account Richard's superior arrangements and Karen's ethereal way of making every song personal and universal at the same time, and of course that she was one of the great vocalists, male or female of our time. I'm glad I discovered her and the wonderful band back in the day and it's such a joy to see young people be tuned into the magic.
Interviewer to Paul Williams: "You have written several songs The Carpenters have used. Aren't they very 'vanilla''?"
Paul Williams: "Isn't vanilla a wonderful flavor!"
@@thomasmacdiarmid8251 Perfect!
Perhaps the greatest singer to ever sing a tune.
I can count the few times that I have shed tears when someone I didn't actually know died. One of those times was when I heard that Karen died. Her voice was a part of the soundtrack of my younger years and my life was indelibly impacted by her.
Also, I must give a shout out to Richard's piano playing.
Francis, I was at a party when she died and someone turned on the news and it was reporting that she died. My heart just sank and the party ended.
She died on my 25th birthday, I was breastfeeding my baby and held him close and cried and cried.
I was too young to know who she was when she died. I wasn't introduced to her until the late '80s, whenever it was that "The Karen Carpenter Story" aired on TV. My dad suddenly became obsessed with her and started listening to all of her music, and his obsession passed on to me. Celebrity deaths don't really affect me, but it would have affected me had I known who she was at the time, and Richard's death, when it happens (hopefully later rather than sooner) will also affect me.
I did too
This was the first time I have ever heard that stunning emotional piano solo at the end of this song, as it was probably cut to shorten it for the air-time radio version. WOW!
We all recognize and appreciate the unbelievable talent of Karen's voice, but Richard brilliance on the piano is often overlooked.
The Carpenters had a string of hit singles and albums through the early 1970s, and Richard composed many of the popular tunes that that paved their way to stardom.
Carol....Richard added the extra piano after she died
Hi Carol, that piano bit was “newly” added to the track when the song was released in the compilation Singles 1969-1981 (released in 2000) and it was meant to link the song to Close To You, the next track, which starts with piano too, and the piano bit added was a perfect segue as it was modulated to the correct key that synched to the opening bars of Close to You.
The original album and single (released in 1972 and 1974, respectively) did not have this piano part.
@@calvinmurty8273 - Thanks for that info, Calvin! I should have known it was something like that because I had the original album and listened to it all the time!☺
Sometimes we forget that they were the Carpenters. They just worked like no one else could.
You too are perfect for each other! God-bless you both.
It’s sad to think about the amazing future music we were denied from hearing due to her tragic and untimely passing. However, her death brought more public awareness to the dangers of eating disorders than probably any other event. Even most of us who worked in healthcare had never heard of anorexia and bulimia until it became publicly known because of Karen and, in death she probably ended up saving thousands of lives because of increased awareness and families learning the warning signs.
Karen Carpenter had the voice of an angel....
Solitaire by her is so overlooked and such s beautiful song.
“Bless The Beasts And The Children “. The Carpenters!!!👍
Susan, good taste ...yes that and do much more!!!
Voice of an angel. Miss her.
The greatest female voice that ever breathed.
The most beautiful contralto voice you'll ever hear.
"Top of the World" has a country feel and is another classic that needs to be next.
That woman's voice and that man's arrangements! What an amazing pair of artists! I haven't heard this one in ages and it's taken me right back to the 1972, listening to this at night when I should have been sleeping. Portable A.M. transistor radio under the pillow, volume on low and just grooving in dead of night. The piano at the end, repeating the chorus, slowly and with a last minute key change to close out, will get you every time. Wistful, thoughtful, romantic. Richard's work was genius.
You are 100% correct. Their talent level was second to none.
Karen Carpenter had this incredible ability to make you feel like she was singing directly to you. In fact, when Herb Alpert of A & M Records first heard a demo track of the Carpenters, he laid back on his couch and closed his eyes. When Karen's voice came on, she sounded as if she was right there ... on the couch ... singing to him.
You must have read that same Ray Coleman book I read. I remember reading this in that book!
@@MagnifiiScentz I believe I heard it long ago on a video of Herb Alpert describing his experience.
i did not know that! that is awesome!
I read somewhere that when Herb Alpert learns Karen will be in the studio to record, his schedule would some how clear out. people find him in the booth.
'There's a Kind of Hush' and 'Top of the World' are a couple of their more upbeat, lyrically and musically, hits.
It's not really upbeat, but Goodbye to Love has a rocking guitar solo in it.
@@willdwyer6782 🙂 'Top of the World' and 'Goodbye to Love' are my two favourite of all their songs....yes, that guitar solo
Sweet Sweet Smile!😊
Their cover of Mr. Postman
Mr. Guder
'There's a Kind of Hush', is one I haven't heard in a looong while. Gonna have to look that one up.
Good choices, i'd also like to see reactions to Calling Occupants of Interplanetary craft (full song) which is strange but wonderful, Please Mr Postman & This masquerade
This is the first time I've ever heard the album (long) version of the song. Radio stations always cut off the piano at the end to make time for commercials. Thank you.
"Hurting Each Other", "Yesterday Once More", "Top of the World", "Superstar", etc...! There's so many great songs!
I still secretly compare all singers I hear (pro and amateur) to Karen. While there are many lovely voices from ladies out there (Whitney, Adele, Barbra, Celine, Linda Ronstadt), no one sounds like Karen. Even as a 10-yr old kid, I knew she was something special. My Mom used to listen to the radio in the kitchen (Top 40 usually) when I was a kid/teen, and Karen was on a lot! She is just perfection to me. Thank you for a lovely reaction to one of my fav Carpenters songs. Love you guys! 💕
That album had like six hits. It was astounding.
Just like a perfectly tuned instrument, Karen’s voice was absolutely perfect in its tone, pitch, and you could understand each and every word clearly…… Man this song takes me back to a time when this old man was an innocent child. Thank you for that. sorry about the edit this song got me a little upset remembering the people I’ve lost over along the way…
Dominic...me too. Her music saved my life as a kid from a horrible childhood. I would lock myself in my room and listened to her and my father called me a pansy.
@@michaelasay8587 I had the opposite childhood as my dad would play Carpenters records sometimes & I've always dug em...sorry your childhood sucked...
@@michaelasay8587 Good on you for surviving. F... your father. Karen was a goddess that touched all of us and lifted our souls
I was married Feb 4, 1983....that was the day we lost our beautuful Ms. Karen ⚘
Amber's sideway glance at 5:20, after Jay's declaration, just warmed my heart for a week. And it's freezing here in Madrid!
Karen & Richard Carpenter were truly the dynamic duo. So many wonderful songs. What a legacy of excellence. Richard is a modern day Mozart. His compositions & arrangements are on par with the great composers of yesteryear. Karen had the voice to make a Nightingale weep & swoon. Don't forget, Karen was an amazing drummer! Miss Carpenter had left this mortal coil to soon. Such a beautiful lady who gave us so much of herself. God Bless the gracious Songbird. Thank you Richard & Karen! You have enriched my life.
Top of the world this should absolutely be your next reaction
❤️👍
I’m thankful for having a childhood that included listening to incredible music from artists like The Carpenters this happened to be my favorite song of theirs. It was the song the disc jockeys played on the air after they announced Karen’s untimely passing in February 4, 1983 .
Hard to believe we are approaching the 40th anniversary of her death.
I've loved the Carpenters since I was a child. I cried so much when she passed away and dedicated myself to learning as many of their songs as possible. Thanks for reviewing so many awesome artists!
she was worth every accolade she ever got!
How can any heart that beats not open up to The Carpenters? So lovely, so sweet. How I wish Karen had stayed with us longer; we miss you 💙❤
So beautifully stated
When I hear their music I can't help but tear up. Days gone past.
Bless the Beasts and the Children!
Her voice is so pure and resonant. I have always likened her voice to a ringing bell. Like angel chimes. Just beautiful and transcendent. Lovely
Check out "This Masquerade" by The Carpenters, written by Oklahoma's own Leon Russell.
My dad could listen to her all day , he introduced me to listen to the carpenters
Awe… we saw that Rob. When she sang “but I won’t last a day without you.” You immediately looked over at Amber.🥰🥰🥰
His name is not Rob. Rob Squad is their last name more or less.
That's how I feel about my hubby! Beautiful song..I've known the Carpenters my whole life..still remember singing to Top of the World at a very young age. Love ❤️ 😍 the Carpenters forever!!
Her voice is so beautiful it makes me dizzy. And his piano and arrangements were incredible. Also the great musicians in their band. Listen to Only Yesterday it's my favorite Carpenters song. Also Solitaire I think is one of Karen's most powerful vocal moments.
It's Nice to see the Love y'all have for each other... There was a point in the Lyrics where we heard "I can take all the madness the World has to give me, but I won't Last a day without you" and J turns to face Amber and Just SMILES before facing front again❤
noticed too :) and even before that was praying for them and their kids.. I had 26 years with my husband (until cancer :( ).. I know the demands on our lives.. I pray for the very best for this music sensitive couple
I think I've listened to all the Carpenter reactions you have done and enjoyed them all. I am 64 yrs old and go all the way back to a very young age when a girl I had a massive crush on introduced me to The Carpenters. The girl moved away I was sad but I always have The Carpenters....Thanks guys...Bless you
Lovely memory .Have you ever tried to locate her ?
I have a few similar memories like yours ,I'm 62 and I managed to find an old girlfriend from way back when I was 15 😁🎶
Please please, could you leave a tribute day to honor Karen's passing 40yrs ago this February 4th 1983.
She's just something special. Even a great drum compilation. She's just amazing. 40 yrs ppl begin to forget her. She was always on TV specials. Take a look at 1980 TV medley from music, music, music.
Anything to recognize her contribution which is beginning to diminish but not in my heart
Even a documentary which there are several. And the movie in 1989 karen carpenter story
I totally agree with you on that. After 40 years of her leaving this earth, they are still appreciated and are still selling albums because their music is Timeless
@@deborahscalise3215 she's just has a timeless voice
I'm happy to announce that they are releasing a new movie based on karen carpenter from the author of little girl blue autobiography. It will be introduced at the Santa Barbra film festival coming up in February
@@robertfausnaught8513 That is great! I have read Little Girl Blue. Looking forward to seeing it!
I know I keep repeating this but Karen was such a great drummer. A good friend who is a very respected recording drummer always talks up her skills and will ware a Carpenters shirt to a gigs. Lol. Richard is as a great composer & piano player Thanks for another great song.
Karen didn't play drums on this song, or most of their hits for that matter. The drummer on this tune is Hal Blaine.
Thank you , I knew that. As a drummer I appreciate talent and Karen was a very talented drummer. Have a nice week ahead.
@@billc.5861 Talented but not great.
When I was young I'd listen to the radio waitin for my favorite songs
When they played I'd sing along, it made me smile
Those were such happy times and not so long ago how I wondered where they'd gone
But they're back again just like a long lost friend all the songs I loved so well
Every sha-la-la-la every wo-o-wo-o still shines
Every shing-a-ling-a-ling that they're startin to sing, so fine
When they get to the part wheres he's breakin her heart it can really make me cry, just like before, its yesterday once more
Lookin back on how it was in years gone by
And the good times that I had
Makes today seem rather sad, so much has changed
It was songs of love that I would sing to then
And I'd memorize each word
Those old melodies still sound so good to me
As they melt the years away
Every sha-la-la-la, Every wo-o-wo-o still shines
Every shing-a-ling-a-ling that they're startin to sing, so fine
All my best memories come back clearly to me
Some can even make me cry, just like before
Its yesterday once more
Yesterday once more
Released in 1973
I was 13 at the time when I'd listen to the radio waitin for my favorite songs.
I was aware of the Carpenters since 1970 when Close to You and We've only Just Begun was released.
Richard Carpenter wrote Yesterday Once More with John Bettis.
This is in my top 5 Carpenter songs.
Always a winner with The Carpenters! ❤Thanks, Y’all!
The Carpenters are my favorite group of all time. Richard’s stellar piano playing and Karen’s incomparable voice. She was the best singer who ever lived. You really should review You’re the One.” It might even bring Jay to tears!
GOOD CHOICE!....
They need to do so much more of their music....Bless the Beasts and the Children, Road Ode, Argentina, A place to hideaway...just so many.
Karen’s voice and inflection is soul soothing…it is some mysterious mojo. 😊
The piano solo at the end is a specially recorded link by Richard Carpenter for the album "Singles 1969-1981" released in 2000. It links this song straight into "Close to You".
interesting, i didnt know that, nice
Amber, you said it perfectly. Richard's piano solo at the end is the cherry on top! Glad to see J. starting to appreciate the softer side of music. Don't worry, you can still rock the AC/DC and like ballads.
The Carpenters' music is about Romantic Love and relationships and they along with Bread are Legendary about this topic!!! Love me some Carpenters!!!!
Never heard that lovely "cherry on top" ending before since radio stations would never play something like that. Thank you for bringing it to us.
The piano coda was added by Richard Carpenter years later in a remix/remastered version, in what feels like a memoriam of sorts. If you liked it give a listen to "Karen's Theme," his instrumental tribute to his sister. He was/is quite a talented pianist.
Richard arranged all the Carpenters' music, and was the musical director of the group in addition to contributing harmony vocals in most of their songs. His contribution, sometimes overlooked, was central to their special sound. Karen's voice and presence were, of course, unique and magical. They were a special duo.
When you get a chance listen to "Goodbye to Love" one of the first ever "power ballads," that they received some blow back from because it was at the time a unique pairing of heavy guitar with the Carpenters type of music.
What can you say ? Karen carpenter absolute genius what a voice angelic.
She could sing the phone book and bring me to tears.
Karen and Richard Carpenter, they graced us with their music for a very brief time, what we have is music from heaven, before she left. Thank you Karen
Thanks A&J for making Me Smile.
They called her, one take Karen. She was
PERFECT every time. ❤
That was sweet Jay, the way you turn to your wife Amber and pointed at her, when the Carpenters sang, I could take the madness this world has to give but I won't last a day without. you.
Yesterday, an iconic Australian singer, Renee Geyer died. She had the most amazing soulful voice. It wouls be wonderful if you could play her singing "It's a Man's World" from the 70's.
1974. It was recorded in 1972. Then when Karen and Richard were exhausted from touring they took this, added a few things and released as a single in Spring 1974 the way I heard the story. They just kept coming with it songs throughout the 1970's. Written by Paul Williams and music composed by Roger Nichols. They included it on their 1972 album A Song for You, but it would not be released as a single until 1974. All backup harmony vocals are Karen and Richard.
a song by them that is not well known is called Road Ode. Karen sings what it's like to be on the road for so long. Great lyrics and some really good arrangements with the band
Brings back high school days and singing this in the car when it came on the radio.
I was there with you.
Karen had an effortless ease about her singing. She looks like she is talking, but what comes out of her mouth is pure perfection. She was such a talented musician and singer. I can still remember where I was and what I was doing when I found out she had passed away. Thanks so much for this trip to the past. You guys are so great. Love you guys
This song is my favorite of theirs. It's soft, clear, uplifting, and sweet. Those Carpenter siblings are amazing.
'Goodbye to Love' please... I've been enjoying your Carpenters reactions. So happy you love them the way you do.
My wife and I have loved The Carpenters from the first time we heard them back in the 70's. And still enjoy their albums. Just absolutely beautiful.
One of my favorites from The Carenters.
When I was a little girl (3 or 4 yrs old) , "Mr. Postman" was my favorite
This was another Paul Williams/Roger Nichols song who wrote We've Only Just Begun and Rainy Days and Mondays. It peaked at #1 on The Adult Contemporary chart and #11 on the Billboard Top 100. They released it as a single almost 2 years after A Song For You album was released.
Always floors me this song didn't get higher than 11. It's one of my faves.
The Paul Williams version is more authentic for me. The bass guitar and guitar playing are superb as is the orchestration.
The man is a legend.
Her voice makes me cry....I miss her so much.
Two Carpenters songs that you may not hear mentioned often but that are two of my very favorites are “This Masquerade” and “Goodbye To Love.” Please give them a listen! You won’t regret it!
I second that. They're two of my favorites also.
Ah, Goodbye to Love, with that contrast of heavenly vocals & ripping guitar solo that resembled Sonic Youth!! Many called it the greatest guitar solo ever...
@@graciesmom1477 I second that and would add A Song For You to the two you mentioned. It shows off Karen's wonderful sultry low range that is sublime.
Agreed! Some of my favorites. Karen did a duo with Ella Fitzgerald on a tv special on Masquerade.
The piano was Richard.
They did a song called "Sing" which came from Sesame Street.
Wow, you guys are finally doing more Karen!! You have so many more sings to do by her!! Please keep going!!!
Such a huge part of the 70s sound and happy memories of carefree childhood. You’ve done a lot of great songs but don’t stop here there are many Carpenters hits to go. Amber I believe you would especially love “Sing” it features Karen and a children's choir and is a happy upbeat tune. I’d react to the original studio version but if you want to be futher blown away by the talented Ms. Carpenter, find and watch a version on you tube from a 1974 concert in Japan. Karen sings the song in Japanese (flawlessly) and with a Japanese girls chorus.
Another classic you shouldn’t miss is “Top of the World”
I love listening to The Carpenters on a road trip. So uplifting & the perfect songs to sing along too with the volume up :)
Always loved their music from the first time I heard them in 1970.
Her voice... INCREDIBLE... Love me some Karen
RIP Karen. Your voice was one of a kind.
Absolutely 👍🎶
The Emotion she puts into every song hits home every time 🎶
"Good Bye To Love" is my favorite Carpenters song.
A beautiful song! Speaks Truth of the Holy Spirit!
I also was thinking 🤔 that .
Yes it does!
Amen✝️💞
Interesting observation and I agree with you.
Amen. I feel the same way about the Holy Spirit. 🙌
For me, I think the best showcase of Karen’s voice is “Only Yesterday”, (not to be confused with, “Yesterday Once More”) “Hurting Each Other” is also another you should check out for your next Carpenter reactions.
There is a clip on TH-cam from the Carpenters last TV special of Karen singing a duet with Ella Fitzgerald. I think you would enjoy it.
I love that duet! It's on the "Time Goes By" album, which Richard produced years after Karen's death.
I love the carpenters! I’ve got to say one of my favorite songs, is called you. I don’t know that it’s a very popular song of theirs or well-known, but I really love the words, and of course her voice. If you can find a copy of it somewhere would be cool for you to react to it.
This is a very beautiful song, and you're right, she has a gorgeous voice! Keep enjoying listening to her songs!
There is comfort food and there is comfort music. It's done by the Carpenters. The arrangements and oh, her singing. Perfect and pure. Musical paradise. So sad we lost her too soon.
Although she is no longer here physically, her music is a bright light that will shine forever !!!!
"Top of the World" 🌎
is a cheerful Carpenters hit you should check out. Very catchy
Everything they did is lovely.
Karen had such a beautiful voice. Her and Richard had some great songs.
Only Yesterday one of my favorites. There are still a few more. I can’t get enough Carpenters.
One of the most beautiful voices ever. The Carpenters recorded some beautiful songs that were not released as singles. "I Just Fall In Love Again" was written for the Carpenters and was not released as a single because it was considered too long for Top 40 radio by A&M Records. Dusty Springfield and Anne Murray would go on to cover this song with some success but, for me, it just doesn't compare to the original by the Carpenters
This song has always made my heart swell with love. ♥️ ...and maybe it gets dusty in here, too.
That dust gets me sometimes too🤭
My husband was puzzled why I liked this song so much. Karen Carpenter is the reason.
Patty, what's wrong with the hubby? Lol.,.
The Carpenters were just so wholesome and their songs and Karen's voice is so dreamy!!!!
I got married June 22, 1975 and "I Won't Last a Day Without You" was our first dance. In the years since, I always manage to play this song for my wife on our anniversary - on one of my sound systems at home, in the car on the way to work or going out to celebrate, or have the piano player at the restaurant we're at play it for us, etc. After all these years it is always special and will always be "our" song. Thanks for playing it.
In February 1983, I was driving to work, listening to the radio, and this song came on. And the DJ said it was by "the late Karen Carpenter." That was how I heard that she had died, and as beautiful as this song is, I always associate it with that moment, driving to work half blind because I was crying so much. This was before the internet, before the days of TMI, her health issues may have made it into the tabloids, but I didn't see it -- I had no idea she was even sick. I'd had dreams of meeting her and maybe even one day singing with her, so I was devastated by her death. I've never heard that ending before! I love that! On the album I have, it just ends when she finishes singing.
What a beautiful singing voice. Not high and squeaky, but mellow and soothing.