Meet Karen Carpenter. The most hauntingly beautiful voice you will ever hear! Those of us lucky enough to have grown up in music's golden age loved her and miss her terribly. RIP Karen 💚
This song was released in 1971. Carpenters were siblings Karen and Richard Carpenter. She sang and played drums. Richard played keyboard, piano and sang background vocals. He also arranged the music. This is the official video of the recorded version of the song. Almost all background vocal were done by Karen and Richard. The other musicians are the studio musicians known as the Wrecking Crew. Carpenters dominated the pop genre from 1970 until Karen's untimely death from complications of anorexia in 1983. She was one month shy of her 33rd birthday.
Very good I’ll correct one thing. The only “Wrecking Crew” members were Hal Blaine and Joe Osborn on studio drums and bass respectively. Joe essentially “discovered” them and made demos with them before the big break. Hal was brought in to do studio drumming on Close To You to keep Karen focused on singing. The rest were essentially the Carpenters regulars or road musicians. No other continuous WC members maybe one or two on a song or other, not even sure of that but there were so many. Great documentary on the subject.
She was rated the Best Drummer in the country by a national publication. I believe it was Rolling Stone Magazine. We were very lucky to be alive when the Carpenters were opening the world to finer sounds. The first time I heard a vinyl record of 'Close To You' I listened to it at least 8 times straight. I could not help myself. Many teenagers were embarrassed to let their friends know they listened to The Carpenters, but I'll bet their friends listened to then as well. They did not get to the top of the charts so many times without an audience. I want to add that even though I want to watch a 'newcomer' react to the Carpenters, I sometimes just close my eyes and listen to her sing. She was hypnotic, don't you think? Thank you for choosing your own pace beside the millions of others, who could not push her out of their life.-- I believe she is playing the drums in this video as she often does.
You have just met the voice of a Angel. Karen Carpenter. World class drummer and her brother Richard played the piano and did all the arrangements of their music and made his sisters voice shine. Karen was taken from us to young. She died due to anorexia. RIP Karen.
Karen’s producer once said that Karen NEVER hit a note out of pitch. Extremely rare talent. Also, as a female, being a talented drummer was rarely allowed. Karen was “encouraged” to be up front and not play the drums.
Carpenters were the #1 selling group in america in the 70's. Karen Carpenters voice is considered by the music industry not the now group as one of the greatest you will ever hear. Karen also is the best female drummer according to drummer magazines. She was one of a kind. Inspired Madonna, Shania Twain, Gloria Estefan etc etc, Admired by Paul McCartney, Elton John, John Lennon, Ella Fitzgerald, Dionne Warwick etc etc. Her voice will mesmerize you. Great Reaction to a legend. Died of Anorexia Nervosa at 32 years old on 2/4 1983. Welcome to the Carpenters followers.
Richard said she had beaten anorexia nervosa. The problem was that her heart had been so badly weakened, that it couldn't handle some prescription drugs, and she passed.
Syrup of ipecac was what finally weakened her heart and caused her death. It is not something one should take routinely to lose weight! I'm sure Karen didn't know how deadly that practice was!
Fun fact. Her voice was discovered accidentally. Her passion was always drums. She was sound checking for an upcoming concert and jumped on the mic for a bit but when the powers at be heard her voice they were like "aw naw!!". They convinced her to become a lead singer. She did it but said her heart never left loving the drums.
Best Singing Drummers of All Time 1) Karen Carpenter (The Carpenters) 2) Phil Collins (Genesis) 3) Gil Moore (Triumph) 4) Don Henley (The Eagles) 5) Levon Helm (The Band) 6) Ringo Starr (The Beatles, solo) 7) Dave Grohl (Foo Fighters, Nirvana) 8) Anderson .Paak (Silk Sonic, solo)
My brother and his lyricist partner, John Bettis ran Sweet Harmony Music, Johnny wrote so many songs for the Carpenters, having met them at Cal State Long Beach. Their association lasted until Karen's untimely death. She had gained weight and almost beat her long-time battle with anorexia/bulimia. But her heart finally gave out. It was devastating to everyone that knew Karen. There was not a lot of information back then about anorexia. Johnny was one of her pallbearers and when I saw him at her service, I could see the heartbreak on his face, as well as her family members.
Wow. I was a young admirer of Karen and the Carpenters in the 70s/80s (born in '64) but have more recently revisited their story. I am blown away by the quality of their music. You are lucky to have been closer to their story even though it was tragic.
@@stacymatthews57789 I felt it was true to her life, and I respect the producers for that. Karen was so grounded. The documentary was quite difficult for me to watch as it brought up a lot of emotions. But I am grateful for that. Have you read the book, "Little Girl Blue: The Life of Karen Carpenter"?
When I was a kid, we made fun of my sister for liking the Carpenters, who were uncool, unlike David Bowie or Led Zeppelin or The Who. But I've come to appreciate Karen Carpenter's voice and, of course, the Carpenter's melodies are catchy as hell.
I think that was the general consensus back then. I loved them when I was little (I was born in 68 so I remember loving on top of the world ) and then it was like oh my God they are so corny , and as I got older I am like she has one of the most beautiful voices .When discussions come up about best female vocalists I always throw Karen in there and most people agree
Not just the most perfectly pitched female singer of all time but also one of the world's greatest jazz drummers. Karen was happiest behind the drums and had they not forced her to front the band she may have still been here today 😢 RIP Karen. 32 was too young 🌱
Karen and Richard Carpenter, brother and sister duo, ruled the radio Airwaves back in the 70s. Karen sadly died from anorexia.😢 She never felt she was good enough and such a sad loss to the world. Watching you experience the Carpenters for the first time is such a joy... their music and songs brought comfort to your day. Check out next We've Only Just Begun, Yesterday Once More, Next to You, and Superstar.
This song came out in 1971, The Carpenters were a brother and sister band with Karen playing drums and singing and Richard on keys and singing harmonies. They had several huge hits and her voice is thought to be one of the greatest ever in pop music. Karen died very young because of an eating disorder, anorexia nervosa.
This song was written by Paul Williams & Roger Nichols, who also wrote We’ve Only Just Begun (which started its life as a bank commercial). Paul got the “talking to myself & feeling old” bit from his mother. Also, a random piece of trivia that I learned last year was that Paul played the part of Little Enos in Smoky & the Bandit films.
I've been a Carpenters fan from the beginning. The first time I heard Karen sing, I fell in love with her beautiful voice. It's so refreshing to see a young man who appreciates truly good music and singers. Thank you for your great reaction to the best singing duo ever.
I really appreciate the young ‘uns appreciation of Karen’s voice. To hear her voice coming over the radio back in the 70’s was like heaven just fell from the sky. As a very young girl, I always sang out loud right along with her. I didn’t care who heard me. She was that vocally inspiring. And because I was sent to an unloving and abusive home after my mom died in ‘69, Rainy Days and Mondays spoke straight to my soul. It was how I felt and walked around every day. Can’t wait to give her a great big hug when I meet her in heaven and sing along with her a new song. Thank you for your great reaction to her beautiful voice.
Nice take young man!! Timeless!! You have to u tube her playing drums .. she was incredible!! she didn’t even want to sing/ be in front.. very self- conscious /shy believe it or not, her low self-esteem led to her anorexia that led to her tragic premature death when she could’ve shared 3o more years of magic..
Not sure he ever noticed that Karen also played drums while singing. I did like his reaction though because what he said is true. This music is timeless and her voice will always be timeless because its pure perfection!
Early 1970’s. It’s a Brother/Sister duo Karen and Richard Carpenter. They were chart topping. She was hauntingly perfect. Her voice makes you cry . Her Brother Richard was the genius arranger and piano/vocals.
I was about 6 when I first heard Karen's voice and fell in love. I grew up in the 90's and it didn't make me a cool child. And feel like more people realise what a talent they are these days.
Karens' lower register remains unsurpassed today. They were know for recording a song in only one take because they were so well prepared coming into the recording studio. She was something very special!
Sometime during the seventies Karen was leaving a restauraunt in NYC and ex Beatle the great John Lennon was walking in anf approached her and told her what an incredible singer she was and he played Carpenters records at home all the time. She had very low self esteem and didnt quit know how to take it, she was like embarrassed by the compliment. A compliment from John Lennon to just about any other performer would have blown them away. Not Karen, she felt undeserving and stupid. Kinda sad. Peace ❤
PzoThePlug, thank you for your enthusiastic response to the wondrous and legendary Carpenters. I am in my mid-sixties, and I am heartened that young people are discovering and appreciating the musical genius of the Carpenters. So many of the songs they performed have become classics. Richard's arrangements and Karen's unearthly voice make the songs unforgettable and even emotionally wrenching. As so many have said, the Carpenters and their music reach and stir our souls.
Karen was one of a kind. There will never be another like her. She had such a pure calming voice. And she was a terrific drummer. That was her passion even more than singing. Sadly we lost her so young. Thankfully we have her legacy left in her music. The Carpenters had so many great songs such as "We've Only Just Begun", "(They Long To Be) Close To You", "For All We Know", "Superstar", "Goodbye To Love", "Top Of The World", "Sing", "Yesterday Once More", "I Won't Last A Day Without You", "Please Mr. Postman", "Only Yesterday", "There's A Kind Of Hush (All Over the World)", "I Need To Be In Love" & so many more.
Karen Carpenter (sister) on Lead Vocals (and some backing vocals) and Drums (did you notice her drumming?) Richard Carpenter (brother) on Piano and Backing Vocals Other instruments provided by members of a studio session group called The Wrecking Crew, as follows : Joe Osborn : bass guitar Hal Blaine : drums Tommy Morgan : harmonica Bob Messenger: tenor saxophone The name The Carpenters refers to just the sister-brother duo itself. When their songs required additional instruments, they brought in studio session players usually.
Her and Whitney, they are the only voices that were unbelievably perfect I love Karen, always have. She passed so very young. I was devastated. Still am. Whitney Houston was the last lady that passed that devastated me. That is her brother, making up the Carpenters. Still love their music. Raining here in East Tennessee on a Monday. Love your reaction. The Carpenter's are considered only 2, with back up singers and musicians as needed per each song. Love that you love them as well. Bhip from East Tennessee.
Once an angel fell from heaven. Though she was called home far too quickly she left us all with an amazing gift. Because of her, we know what angels sound like. We miss you, Karen.
MAJESTIC! loved your response! 1970ʻs, they grew up in the working class suburb of Downey, CA. Brother and sister -he was a talented composer and arranger, she was his kid sister drummer with the true Alto voice -the best voice ever. And... no auto-tune. It was the golden age of Pop, and Elton John once said there are only 3 perfect voices: Karen Carpenter, Judith Durham and Eva Cassidy.
You’ve gotten a lot of information to start your journey down Carpenters rabbit hole. I’ll add, while Karen was alive Karen and Richard in studio were the ONLY background harmonies. On the road the band did harmonies with them. Richard master layering and overdubbing to create the Carpenters’ signature sound. Their background was in jazz and there’s a viral video of drumming like a pro at 18 in a competition featuring her brother on electric piano and a guy with a long unusual name on bass guitar. They competed as The Dick Carpenter Trio, Dancin’ In The Street was the song and it’s easily searchable. Not well suited for reacting but it’s a hell of a lesson on Karen. This song was from 1971 and Karen is 21. All those pictures were Karen and Richard. A song I can recommend that you may or may not recognize from a later cover is Superstar. The official video and the one with a bazillion hits is the one you want. They were the #1 American act of the 1970’s and sold well more than 100million records. There’s a lot here and it’s all great music and Karen’s voice is like no other. Joe
I love that you enjoy and respect genuine music ..I was blessed to have grown up in 70’s..ty for your review. I subscribed and will forward your site to friends and fam and my on line community...want you to keep reviewing. Luv ya.✌️
Karen and Richard Carpenter. Karen sings and drums. Her brother harmonizes and created all the arrangements . Great piano man. 1970 was break out year w close to you , next was we’ve only just begun.
Karen’s singing lead, Richard her brother sang harmony and was a master at arrangements and layered Karen’s vocals with harmonies from both of them. You should check out “Superstar … you know Luther Vandross sang the remake but the song was originally theirs.
I love to see young people discovering the fabulous music I grew up with in the 1970s. Karen was originally a teenaged, award-winning jazz drummer whose lovely voice wasn't discovered for some time. Her brother (composer, arranger, vocalist pianist) knew exactly how to bring out her lower register and to layer their vocals for that full sound. Vocals in the studio were done by the two of them with some band members singing when they performed live in concert. A timeless duo with genius-level talent!
Most fell in love with her voice..some of us fell in love with her..she was 3 years younger, was beautiful and had the voice of an angel, she was smart and funny…fun to be around..the perfect pitch made the world take notice..I took notice the first day..she had a laugh that still haunts..and eyes that could go from happy to sad in a heartbeat..she was that way..her mom called her chubby and by high school, she began her lifelong struggle…married a guy for two years who didn’t deserve her..and died on a Saturday morning..She is still thought of…every day..
Karen and her brother Richard Carpenter. He wrote many of the songs and lyrics. He arranged all of them and chose instruments, played the piano. We had the good fortune to live in the days when such music first appeared.
Great reaction!! Karen Carpenter had the voice of an Angel! Sadly, her depression and anorexia went unnoticed way too long. Very tragic. She was an Incredible talent!!
Loooved your reaction. She was a wonderful singer and she died from complications of anorexia. That's her brother Richard on piano. Thanks for sharing. Listen to "Superstar", my favorite.
Karen Carpenter her brother Richard did all the arrangements and played keyboards, they had an ensemble of instrumentalists to support them. they produced brilliant music at every turn.
Her brother Richard arranged the compositions, she had a uniquely hauntingly beautiful voice, with deep low register on on end of her range.. her and Linda ronstadt had the best voices of the 60’s/ 70’s
Karen and Richard Carpenter are a brother and sister duet singing group. She can play the drums at the same time. Yes they were the called the Carpenters
They wee siblings. Karen and Richard. Karen sang and played the drums. Richard composed, backup singer and played the piano. They were HUGE!! Her voice is pure, pitch perfect and unmatchable to this day.
Yo Pzo. Im in my 60s and remember Carpenters well. Herb Alpert heard Karen's voice on a demo in 1969 and signed her brother, Richard, and her to A&M records. Karen received 3 or 4 Grammys in the 70s and sold over 80 million records by 1982. She was 1975 rock drummer of the year according to Playboy. KC had the most beautiful voice-ever, and perhaps THE best female vocalist-ever, because she compels you to listen as she sings in perfect pitch to you, not at you, with emotion and enunciation. No auto-tune or gimmicks. No professional voice or drum instruction. She was known by the studios as 'one take'. She rarely, if ever, did more than one take of any song. She was also the ONLY female harmony/background voice in all her songs. She was truly born with an incredible singing talent. Documentaries point out the accolades to her voice, such as, Paul McCartney said she had the most angelic voice after hearing her sing 'Ticket To Ride'. John Lennon ran into her at an LA restaurant and told her "you have a fabulous voice, luv". Supposedly Frank Sinatra stated that Karen was the only singer he'd pay to hear. I recommend songs such as, Yesterday Once More, Solitaire, This Masquerade, Need To Be In Love, Hurting Each Other, Only Yesterday, I Can Dream Cant I, Crescent Noon, Ordinary Fool, Superstar, Close To You, We've Only Just Begun, A Olace To Hideaway, and A Song For You. KC never knew true love. One of her few friends included Dionne Warwick. 5'3" KC really lost weight, due to anorexia, in earnest beginning in 1975. She died in Feb 1983 at age 32 due to heart complications from anorexia
Karen Carpenter and her brother Richard Carpenter (pianist, keyboardist). Karen's music career started as a drummer. It was later that it was discovered her singing abilities
Early 1970's Pure Purfection the Singer is Karen Carpenter her Brother Richard was the Carpenters Producer wore many hats Karen passed away early 80's with a eatimg disorder Karen was also the groups drummer because of her beautiful voice they wanted out in front of her drum kit where prople could see her
Meet Karen Carpenter. The most hauntingly beautiful voice you will ever hear! Those of us lucky enough to have grown up in music's golden age loved her and miss her terribly. RIP Karen 💚
Her and her brother Richard and yes the do instrument sounds with voice alot
One of the greatest vocalist in music history! ♥
This song was released in 1971. Carpenters were siblings Karen and Richard Carpenter. She sang and played drums. Richard played keyboard, piano and sang background vocals. He also arranged the music. This is the official video of the recorded version of the song. Almost all background vocal were done by Karen and Richard. The other musicians are the studio musicians known as the Wrecking Crew.
Carpenters dominated the pop genre from 1970 until Karen's untimely death from complications of anorexia in 1983. She was one month shy of her 33rd birthday.
Very good I’ll correct one thing. The only “Wrecking Crew” members were Hal Blaine and Joe Osborn on studio drums and bass respectively. Joe essentially “discovered” them and made demos with them before the big break. Hal was brought in to do studio drumming on Close To You to keep Karen focused on singing. The rest were essentially the Carpenters regulars or road musicians. No other continuous WC members maybe one or two on a song or other, not even sure of that but there were so many. Great documentary on the subject.
RIP Karen
ALL backup vocals were only Karen and Richard, with a few exceptions (Christmas albums, etc.)
She was rated the Best Drummer in the country by a national publication. I believe it was Rolling Stone Magazine. We were very lucky to be alive when the Carpenters were opening the world to finer sounds. The first time I heard a vinyl record of 'Close To You' I listened to it at least 8 times straight. I could not help myself. Many teenagers were embarrassed to let their friends know they listened to The Carpenters, but I'll bet their friends listened to then as well. They did not get to the top of the charts so many times without an audience. I want to add that even though I want to watch a 'newcomer' react to the Carpenters, I sometimes just close my eyes and listen to her sing. She was hypnotic, don't you think? Thank you for choosing your own pace beside the millions of others, who could not push her out of their life.-- I believe she is playing the drums in this video as she often does.
You have just met the voice of a Angel. Karen Carpenter. World class drummer and her brother Richard played the piano and did all the arrangements of their music and made his sisters voice shine. Karen was taken from us to young. She died due to anorexia. RIP Karen.
Karen’s producer once said that Karen NEVER hit a note out of pitch. Extremely rare talent. Also, as a female, being a talented drummer was rarely allowed. Karen was “encouraged” to be up front and not play the drums.
You were a pleasure to watch reading to this song. One of the greatest singers ever.
Many of the recordings were "1 take" of her lead vocal
So glad to see our young ones finding and reacting to this beautiful song 😍 My parents loved The Carpenters.
She was a beautiful talented young woman. Lost to the world way too soon.
Carpenters were the #1 selling group in america in the 70's. Karen Carpenters voice is considered by the music industry not the now group as one of the greatest you will ever hear. Karen also is the best female drummer according to drummer magazines. She was one of a kind. Inspired Madonna, Shania Twain, Gloria Estefan etc etc, Admired by Paul McCartney, Elton John, John Lennon, Ella Fitzgerald, Dionne Warwick etc etc. Her voice will mesmerize you. Great Reaction to a legend. Died of Anorexia Nervosa at 32 years old on 2/4 1983. Welcome to the Carpenters followers.
Richard said she had beaten anorexia nervosa. The problem was that her heart had been so badly weakened, that it couldn't handle some prescription drugs, and she passed.
Syrup of ipecac was what finally weakened her heart and caused her death. It is not something one should take routinely to lose weight! I'm sure Karen didn't know how deadly that practice was!
Fun fact. Her voice was discovered accidentally. Her passion was always drums. She was sound checking for an upcoming concert and jumped on the mic for a bit but when the powers at be heard her voice they were like "aw naw!!". They convinced her to become a lead singer. She did it but said her heart never left loving the drums.
You are 19 and love this? You are great! It was a huge hit when I was little.
Best Singing Drummers of All Time
1) Karen Carpenter (The Carpenters)
2) Phil Collins (Genesis)
3) Gil Moore (Triumph)
4) Don Henley (The Eagles)
5) Levon Helm (The Band)
6) Ringo Starr (The Beatles, solo)
7) Dave Grohl (Foo Fighters, Nirvana)
8) Anderson .Paak (Silk Sonic, solo)
It's brother and sister gig. She passed away from eating disorder.
My brother and his lyricist partner, John Bettis ran Sweet Harmony Music, Johnny wrote so many songs for the Carpenters, having met them at Cal State Long Beach. Their association lasted until Karen's untimely death. She had gained weight and almost beat her long-time battle with anorexia/bulimia. But her heart finally gave out. It was devastating to everyone that knew Karen. There was not a lot of information back then about anorexia. Johnny was one of her pallbearers and when I saw him at her service, I could see the heartbreak on his face, as well as her family members.
Wow. I was a young admirer of Karen and the Carpenters in the 70s/80s (born in '64) but have more recently revisited their story. I am blown away by the quality of their music. You are lucky to have been closer to their story even though it was tragic.
@kristenfierman5579 have you seen the documentary Starving For Perfection yet?
@@stacymatthews57789 I have.
@@kristinfierman5579 what did you think of it??
@@stacymatthews57789 I felt it was true to her life, and I respect the producers for that. Karen was so grounded. The documentary was quite difficult for me to watch as it brought up a lot of emotions. But I am grateful for that. Have you read the book, "Little Girl Blue: The Life of Karen Carpenter"?
She is playing the drums as well as singing
When I was a kid, we made fun of my sister for liking the Carpenters, who were uncool, unlike David Bowie or Led Zeppelin or The Who. But I've come to appreciate Karen Carpenter's voice and, of course, the Carpenter's melodies are catchy as hell.
I think that was the general consensus back then. I loved them when I was little (I was born in 68 so I remember loving on top of the world ) and then it was like oh my God they are so corny , and as I got older I am like she has one of the most beautiful voices .When discussions come up about best female vocalists I always throw Karen in there and most people agree
That's one thing I like about reactors: they don't care about whether something is "cool."
Not just the most perfectly pitched female singer of all time but also one of the world's greatest jazz drummers. Karen was happiest behind the drums and had they not forced her to front the band she may have still been here today 😢 RIP Karen. 32 was too young 🌱
Karen and Richard Carpenter, brother and sister duo, ruled the radio Airwaves back in the 70s. Karen sadly died from anorexia.😢 She never felt she was good enough and such a sad loss to the world. Watching you experience the Carpenters for the first time is such a joy... their music and songs brought comfort to your day. Check out next We've Only Just Begun, Yesterday Once More, Next to You, and Superstar.
This song came out in 1971, The Carpenters were a brother and sister band with Karen playing drums and singing and Richard on keys and singing harmonies. They had several huge hits and her voice is thought to be one of the greatest ever in pop music. Karen died very young because of an eating disorder, anorexia nervosa.
Did you get that she was playing the drums through the entire song? LOL.
I HAD NO IDEA
This song was written by Paul Williams & Roger Nichols, who also wrote We’ve Only Just Begun (which started its life as a bank commercial). Paul got the “talking to myself & feeling old” bit from his mother. Also, a random piece of trivia that I learned last year was that Paul played the part of Little Enos in Smoky & the Bandit films.
I've been a Carpenters fan from the beginning. The first time I heard Karen sing, I fell in love with her beautiful voice. It's so refreshing to see a young man who appreciates truly good music and singers. Thank you for your great reaction to the best singing duo ever.
Many singers can massage your ears; Karen could massage your soul.
Her brother is Richard Carpenter, their music and songs were beautiful
One of the best drummer /singers ever
So honored to be part of growing up on there music brother & sister team. One in a mil group! Enjoy the songs.
I really appreciate the young ‘uns appreciation of Karen’s voice. To hear her voice coming over the radio back in the 70’s was like heaven just fell from the sky. As a very young girl, I always sang out loud right along with her. I didn’t care who heard me. She was that vocally inspiring. And because I was sent to an unloving and abusive home after my mom died in ‘69, Rainy Days and Mondays spoke straight to my soul. It was how I felt and walked around every day. Can’t wait to give her a great big hug when I meet her in heaven and sing along with her a new song. Thank you for your great reaction to her beautiful voice.
Nice take young man!! Timeless!! You have to u tube her playing drums .. she was incredible!! she didn’t even want to sing/ be in front.. very self- conscious /shy believe it or not, her low self-esteem led to her anorexia that led to her tragic premature death when she could’ve shared 3o more years of magic..
Not sure he ever noticed that Karen also played drums while singing. I did like his reaction though because what he said is true. This music is timeless and her voice will always be timeless because its pure perfection!
People forget she was a drummer first, and a singer second...
Early 1970’s. It’s a Brother/Sister duo Karen and Richard Carpenter. They were chart topping. She was hauntingly perfect. Her voice makes you cry . Her Brother Richard was the genius arranger and piano/vocals.
I was about 6 when I first heard Karen's voice and fell in love. I grew up in the 90's and it didn't make me a cool child. And feel like more people realise what a talent they are these days.
Karens' lower register remains unsurpassed today. They were know for recording a song in only one take because they were so well prepared coming into the recording studio. She was something very special!
Sometime during the seventies Karen was leaving a restauraunt in NYC and ex Beatle the great John Lennon was walking in anf approached her and told her what an incredible singer she was and he played Carpenters records at home all the time. She had very low self esteem and didnt quit know how to take it, she was like embarrassed by the compliment. A compliment from John Lennon to just about any other performer would have blown them away. Not Karen, she felt undeserving and stupid. Kinda sad.
Peace ❤
I seriously think Karen knew exactly how great she was.
PzoThePlug, thank you for your enthusiastic response to the wondrous and legendary Carpenters. I am in my mid-sixties, and I am heartened that young people are discovering and appreciating the musical genius of the Carpenters. So many of the songs they performed have become classics. Richard's arrangements and Karen's unearthly voice make the songs unforgettable and even emotionally wrenching. As so many have said, the Carpenters and their music reach and stir our souls.
Karen was one of a kind. There will never be another like her. She had such a pure calming voice. And she was a terrific drummer. That was her passion even more than singing. Sadly we lost her so young. Thankfully we have her legacy left in her music. The Carpenters had so many great songs such as "We've Only Just Begun", "(They Long To Be) Close To You", "For All We Know", "Superstar", "Goodbye To Love", "Top Of The World", "Sing", "Yesterday Once More", "I Won't Last A Day Without You", "Please Mr. Postman", "Only Yesterday", "There's A Kind Of Hush (All Over the World)", "I Need To Be In Love" & so many more.
Karen Carpenter (sister) on Lead Vocals (and some backing vocals) and Drums (did you notice her drumming?)
Richard Carpenter (brother) on Piano and Backing Vocals
Other instruments provided by members of a studio session group called The Wrecking Crew, as follows :
Joe Osborn : bass guitar
Hal Blaine : drums
Tommy Morgan : harmonica
Bob Messenger: tenor saxophone
The name The Carpenters refers to just the sister-brother duo itself. When their songs required additional instruments, they brought in studio session players usually.
Her and Whitney, they are the only voices that were unbelievably perfect
I love Karen, always have. She passed so very young. I was devastated. Still am. Whitney Houston was the last lady that passed that devastated me.
That is her brother, making up the Carpenters.
Still love their music.
Raining here in East Tennessee on a Monday.
Love your reaction. The Carpenter's are considered only 2, with back up singers and musicians as needed per each song.
Love that you love them as well. Bhip from East Tennessee.
Karen Carpenter had the most beautiful voice
The Carpenters a brother and sister. Karen is the lead and
Richard is music and vocal backup. They stay on the charts through my teenage years. 6
We're in the 1970s the Carpenters are a brother and sister Karen Carpenter who's the one singing and playing the drums. She passed away from anorexia
Karen Carpenter, The Best Female Vocal of All Time, Bar None!!!!
❤ My favorite female singer of all-time.
Her voice is like butter
Once an angel fell from heaven. Though she was called home far too quickly she left us all with an amazing gift. Because of her, we know what angels sound like. We miss you, Karen.
So nice and real reaction. You really observe the essence of this genius.
Karen is a *GREAT DRUMMER* !! Check out her Drum Solo 👌👌🔥🔥🔥🔥😍
It’s so rare and unexpected. He doesn’t even notice she’s playing drums at the same time.
Thanks for the genuine reaction and spreading the music of the amazing Carpenters. I suggest listening to “Superstar” or “Solitaire” next.
MAJESTIC! loved your response! 1970ʻs, they grew up in the working class suburb of Downey, CA. Brother and sister -he was a talented composer and arranger, she was his kid sister drummer with the true Alto voice -the best voice ever. And... no auto-tune. It was the golden age of Pop, and Elton John once said there are only 3 perfect voices: Karen Carpenter, Judith Durham and Eva Cassidy.
You’ve gotten a lot of information to start your journey down Carpenters rabbit hole. I’ll add, while Karen was alive Karen and Richard in studio were the ONLY background harmonies. On the road the band did harmonies with them. Richard master layering and overdubbing to create the Carpenters’ signature sound. Their background was in jazz and there’s a viral video of drumming like a pro at 18 in a competition featuring her brother on electric piano and a guy with a long unusual name on bass guitar. They competed as The Dick Carpenter Trio, Dancin’ In The Street was the song and it’s easily searchable. Not well suited for reacting but it’s a hell of a lesson on Karen. This song was from 1971 and Karen is 21. All those pictures were Karen and Richard. A song I can recommend that you may or may not recognize from a later cover is Superstar. The official video and the one with a bazillion hits is the one you want. They were the #1 American act of the 1970’s and sold well more than 100million records. There’s a lot here and it’s all great music and Karen’s voice is like no other.
Joe
I love that you enjoy and respect genuine music ..I was blessed to have grown up in 70’s..ty for your review. I subscribed and will forward your site to friends and fam and my on line community...want you to keep reviewing. Luv ya.✌️
This is music from my era. I don't think you even noticed she was also playing the drums. Huge Rabbit Hole warning.
Karen and Richard Carpenter. Karen sings and drums. Her brother harmonizes and created all the arrangements . Great piano man. 1970 was break out year w close to you , next was we’ve only just begun.
The gorgeous voice of Karen Carpenter.
Awesome song
Yes, that's beautiful voice and the beautiful soul too...
Karen’s singing lead, Richard her brother sang harmony and was a master at arrangements and layered Karen’s vocals with harmonies from both of them. You should check out “Superstar
… you know Luther Vandross sang the remake but the song was originally theirs.
I love to see young people discovering the fabulous music I grew up with in the 1970s. Karen was originally a teenaged, award-winning jazz drummer whose lovely voice wasn't discovered for some time. Her brother (composer, arranger, vocalist pianist) knew exactly how to bring out her lower register and to layer their vocals for that full sound. Vocals in the studio were done by the two of them with some band members singing when they performed live in concert. A timeless duo with genius-level talent!
The Didn't Even Have Autotune!
Most fell in love with her voice..some of us fell in love with her..she was 3 years younger, was beautiful and had the voice of an angel, she was smart and funny…fun to be around..the perfect pitch made the world take notice..I took notice the first day..she had a laugh that still haunts..and eyes that could go from happy to sad in a heartbeat..she was that way..her mom called her chubby and by high school, she began her lifelong struggle…married a guy for two years who didn’t deserve her..and died on a Saturday morning..She is still thought of…every day..
What a great reviewer you are! This is why I subscribed so fast.
you precious young souls, so starved for real music. so happy for you that your listening.......
Karen and her brother Richard Carpenter. He wrote many of the songs and lyrics. He arranged all of them and chose instruments, played the piano. We had the good fortune to live in the days when such music first appeared.
The Carpenters. Karen is top notch drummer too. Her brother plays the piano.
Karen was a true talent, beautiful voice and could play almost any instrument. She loved playing drums.
Great reaction!! Karen Carpenter had the voice of an Angel! Sadly, her depression and anorexia went unnoticed way too long. Very tragic. She was an Incredible talent!!
Was so, so lucky to have met them several times...and a handwritten note from Karen!
She is one of the greatest singers of all time. He didn't even notice that she played the drums
The most beautiful voice ever, I love to sing her songs .❤️
Genuine... Pure Talent...
Sublime voice and one of best drummers ever.
So glad you shared this with us. Next video you should watch is Solitaire!
I agree with every word in your reaction sir. This song and the Carpenters is TIMELESS.
Loooved your reaction. She was a wonderful singer and she died from complications of anorexia. That's her brother Richard on piano. Thanks for sharing. Listen to "Superstar", my favorite.
Karen Carpenter her brother Richard did all the arrangements and played keyboards, they had an ensemble of instrumentalists to support them. they produced brilliant music at every turn.
And she’s playing the drums!!
❤❤❤❤❤❤
Her brother Richard arranged the compositions, she had a uniquely hauntingly beautiful voice, with deep low register on on end of her range.. her and Linda ronstadt had the best voices of the 60’s/ 70’s
I always loved her.Now I'm 72 and still works for me
The time period is late 60s, early 70a and Karen and her brother Richard Carpenter were THE SHIT;
Brother and sister
Karen and Richard Carpenter are a brother and sister duet singing group. She can play the drums at the same time. Yes they were the called the Carpenters
They wee siblings. Karen and Richard. Karen sang and played the drums. Richard composed, backup singer and played the piano. They were HUGE!!
Her voice is pure, pitch perfect and unmatchable to this day.
You can listen to every syllable of the words. She is cristal clear
1970 + and brother Richard is on keyboards and Karen on lead vocals and exquisite drums!
Yes That's Karen Carpenter she also the drummer she really a drummer 1st but had the most beautiful voice. RIP Karen
At 8 years old her voice captivated me instantly.
Yes, timeless. Love it.
Yo Pzo. Im in my 60s and remember Carpenters well. Herb Alpert heard Karen's voice on a demo in 1969 and signed her brother, Richard, and her to A&M records. Karen received 3 or 4 Grammys in the 70s and sold over 80 million records by 1982. She was 1975 rock drummer of the year according to Playboy. KC had the most beautiful voice-ever, and perhaps THE best female vocalist-ever, because she compels you to listen as she sings in perfect pitch to you, not at you, with emotion and enunciation. No auto-tune or gimmicks. No professional voice or drum instruction. She was known by the studios as 'one take'. She rarely, if ever, did more than one take of any song. She was also the ONLY female harmony/background voice in all her songs. She was truly born with an incredible singing talent. Documentaries point out the accolades to her voice, such as, Paul McCartney said she had the most angelic voice after hearing her sing 'Ticket To Ride'. John Lennon ran into her at an LA restaurant and told her "you have a fabulous voice, luv". Supposedly Frank Sinatra stated that Karen was the only singer he'd pay to hear. I recommend songs such as, Yesterday Once More, Solitaire, This Masquerade, Need To Be In Love, Hurting Each Other, Only Yesterday, I Can Dream Cant I, Crescent Noon, Ordinary Fool, Superstar, Close To You, We've Only Just Begun, A Olace To Hideaway, and A Song For You. KC never knew true love. One of her few friends included Dionne Warwick. 5'3" KC really lost weight, due to anorexia, in earnest beginning in 1975. She died in Feb 1983 at age 32 due to heart complications from anorexia
THANK YOU MY MAN, MY FAVORITE FEMALE VOCALIST, PLEASE GO THROUGH MANY SONGS OF HERS THEY'LL TOUCH YOUR HEART ALWAYS GODSPEED❤❤❤❤
Playing drums and singing like that at the same time!
And don't forget that sheis also playing the drums.
he’s blown away.
THANK YOU ❤
Karen Carpenter and her brother Richard Carpenter (pianist, keyboardist). Karen's music career started as a drummer. It was later that it was discovered her singing abilities
Larry Bird and the Carpenters? You are cultured. Smart 19 yr old.
Her & her brother are the Carpenters!!!!
Early 1970's Pure Purfection the Singer is Karen Carpenter her Brother Richard was the Carpenters Producer wore many hats Karen passed away early 80's with a eatimg disorder Karen was also the groups drummer because of her beautiful voice they wanted out in front of her drum kit where prople could see her
Majestic. Relatable. Nice job 👏