She looks so joyful here, like she's truly having the time of her life. A phenomenal talent in every area. That she's not still around today is a pure tragedy. RIP Karen.
I spoke to a person that saw the Carpenters in Vegas before the shows folded. They said the only time Karen looked happy was when she was playing drums.
I couldn't say she was underrated, in 1975 there was a poll taken where she's rated/voted above John Bonham of Led Zeppelin as best drummer. As of today Bonham is considered #1 rock drummer (I prefer Cozy Powell or Ian Paice as the best drummer)
@@paulmatsukawa3845 yo dat shit rigged she straight up drown John bonham bitch fed him liquor and pushed him off da boat tryna get his position in led Zeppelin bitch trifflin
Karen was actually very under rated as a drummer back then. I can tell you this from experience with her. At the end of her solo here when she is doing the symbol work with her right hand. Listen to her left hand. She was doing things only drummers like Buddy Rich were doing at the time. She was also a real doll. I worked The Carpenters briefly. I had a girlfriend at the time that played drums. Karen let her sit on her drum kit and gave her some pointers. Karen was a wonderful lady. I really miss Karen.
If someone can sync that effectively to a recorded track, they're a VERY good drummer. It'd be harder to sync that effectively to a drum track than it would be to actually play it. If you watch her arms she's demonstrating the technique of a really good drummer- no wasted movement, forearms really still, lots of doubles, everything is coming from the wrist and the fingers. She looks like someone with wonderful technique.
Karen Carpenter was doubly blessed with tremendous drum chops and a beautiful unmistakable haunting voice. From what I have read, she always considered herself a drummer first, but the voice was the record company moneymaker. RIP, Karen!
She has great energy as well. Her whole demeanor is great and it is a shame she had personal issues caused by undesirable people. She was beautiful inside and out.
Karen Carpenter would be 73 years old if she were alive today. I’m 71 years old and I loved their music. Karen had the voice of an angel. It’s only within the last 10 years that I’ve been able to listen to music by The Carpenters… because every time their music came on the radio my heart broke all over again. Rest In Paradise Karen 🙏💖🙏
wow 73, i guess that would be right, still so young. I wonder if she would have got well many months before her death (let's say 4 months for example), and got back on the right diet and weight , how long would her heart have lasted since it was already damaged? I guess only a heart surgeon would be able to answer that, so please IF YOU ARE A HEART SURGEON, please respond to this comment.
Like all cancerous acts in Hollywood, it was a producer who told her "Nobody likes you sitting behind the drums. They can't see your pretty face, and girls like to sing, they don't play drums. Are you trying to sell albums or what?"
@@JFish-df2ep concuerdo ; pero de ahí , llamarla " la mejor baterista de todos los tiempos " .... bueno , es confesar que nunca escuchó Creecdence , y no quiero abusar , mencionando Samy Davis Jr. , o Luis Benson , o Jin Krupa ...... 🤷♂️ ???
@@CarlosEduardo-mb2sl Gene Krupa is the only drummer you mentioned... Sammy Davis Jr. was a piano main, he played drums okay... never heard of Luis Benson, can't even find a musician of any fame by that name.
In 1971 I took my then-girlfriend, now wife to see Mark Lindsay at a concert where he opened for the Carpenters. We almost left after his set because neither of us were really interested in the Carpenters. I'm so glad we stayed, because that's one of the best concerts I ever saw and I'm so grateful I was able to see this talented woman perform in person. She's amazing and shamefully under appreciated.
Some people have a gift. Yes, she paid her dues, working in small venues, practicing. But she didn't create her pipes. Her 'face mask' comes from her DNA. You can train to sing to the best level your personal instrument can do. I know! I studied vocal technique at a university. I hit the pitches perfectly with no glisses and my vibrato is even and controlled. But my timbre? My timbre sucks! I could vocalize until the cows came home (and with me singing, they didn't want to come home! rimshot!). I could never be a great lead singer. So, instead, I'm a great guitarist!
In an interview, someone asked Neil Peart how it felt to be the greatest drummer in the world. Neil said, "I wouldn't know, you'll have to Ask Karen Carpenter".
Yes! She never wanted the spotlight or to be up front singing, she only wanted to play the drums and do backup vocals. I think the stress of being thrust up front is part of what made her so insecure and led to her anorexia. It's so wonderful to see how she lit up when she got behind the drums. She loved it. Such wonderful talent, gone way too soon. So sad that she never found love.
Just look at that smile on her while she's playing. And just listen to how artistic she is in her playing -- just flawless. Never mind that she is one of the most iconic singers of the 1970s+ -- she would have been a great jazz drummer and showperson. Some people were just meant to be famous for all of the right reasons. RIP, Karen Carpenter.
I'm a 64 year old lifelong musician, singer, songwriter who idolized the Doors, Hendrix, Santana and a hundred more, but if you asked me what my biggest rock and roll fantasy is it's always been to have met Karen in person and shaken her hand and looked into the eyes of who in my opinion is the greatest female singer in history.
As a drummer I can say she is a natural, has picked-up some Buddy Rich flair and style and has remarkable timing and wonderful fills and creativity. Her another world beautiful, haunting voice is another gold star. Karen was a super talent. So sad about how her life ended so early.
Karen Carpenter was a musical anomaly, and genius. I was a small one when she was doing her thing, and - as a footnote, eating disorders suck. A fabulous drummer, vocalist, and percussionist.
What can I say? Karen Carpenter was nothing short of phenomenal as a drummer. Her playing speaks for itself. Rest in peace Karen, and I hope to meet you in the afterlife.
@@marktarr3068 technical skills is nothing if you don't have creativity...and Karen Carpenter had both. She def deserves more credibility in the drumming world.
@@PhoenixSplash didn’t she win numerous votes for best drummer in magazines over John Bonham, Keith Moon and others? She was totally recognized and admired back then. It is sad that all three self destructed
There are, and have been, a lot of drummers, and professionals in bands & session playing where insane skill is par for the course have to make up more than 5%, not to mention all the kids who grew up playing in church whose names we’ll never know 🤷🏽♂️
ok, here we go. I was saying that the fame of being a headliner is more taxing and more people wanna piece of you than a session musician. I Am well aware of Carpenters eating disorder, I watched her live on TV when I was younger. My sister had all of her albums, which was and was not a good thing.
So much talent. Makes me sad she did not live to see how far her drumming could have carried her into the 1980's and the collaborations she could have had. Makes me sad whenever I see Karen play or sing, but at the same time, such a pleasure. Her smile is contagious.
There's so few female drummers that The Industry has allowed to exist. In the 70s it was even worse. Karen was perfectly comfortable singing from the kit, but the producers badgered her into being a pop star because that was where the money was. "Girls don't play drums, girls sing".
She didn't realize the power she had, she could have shoved her drum sticks up their butt and said, "I'll be singing from my little chair behind the drums, and by the way , don't ever talk to me again or the highhat goes up your butt next!" She had enough talent and personality to be they most badassed motel room wrecker ever! She was too well behaved for her own good, that was the death of her. Take that as a lesson kid, all authorities are suffering from lack of the public shoving things up their butt! Helps bells, we used to tar and feather the arrogant mucker fothers.
i was in a childrens choir that was picked to sing at the Carpenters concert back in 74.. I remember sitting in an empty auditorium between shows just watching Karen run up the kit and tear into it...Just relaxing...
For all those complaining about this being cheesy, It never would have been put on television if it wasn't cheesy. It was created as a family variety show special in the '70's for gosh sakes. I'm still impressed by her sense of rhythm.
FlyingsCool I don't think it's cheesy. She was a professional drummer. One can tell by the way she hold the sticks and her rudiments. Today's drummers are all about showing off. Sometimes cheesy is the best for of silmplicity.
I totally agree. I knew from reading about The Carpenters that she was the drummer for the duo, but I had NO idea that she was at this level. The shit she's pulling off here, and seemingly so offhandedly, would make most other "drummers" of today sweat. This is some intense stuff she's doing, and yet it's all done with a warm smile and a sly sense of humor. If she hadn't passed away at such a young age, I do believe she'd still be going, and she'd be even more of a force of nature. What a miracle she was.
I remember that. I never ever missed any of their television appearances. I saw every episode of their television show. Owned every record. I was a huge fan.
This was the real Karen!! Playing the drums the awesome way only she could do it, dressed in trousers, moving on stage and being happy!! I can feel how NOT being allowed to be HERSELF led her to her sad end... Yes, she was a beautiful woman and a great singer and songwriter. BUT her greatest passion was to play the drums!!! Not being who you are, KILLS. Here's to you, Karen 🌹
@@BlackPrimeMinister I have no reason to lie about Karen Carpenter. It's a known fact that her brother wanted her out front. Go back and read about them. She loved drumming and felt safer behind her drum kit. She That felt like "home" to her. Her brother really did think she'd ENJOY singing out front. Her extraordinary voice is what made them popular, not her drumming. You seem not to know much about band dynamics, and how members influence one another. Oh, and at age 72, I'm hardly a "casual liar." I remember the Carpenters very well.
@@mt.shasta6097 I don't know the history on this and you may be right, and if that's true I'm sure he was looking out for her best interest...and probably his too. If he had any idea how badly that would affect her, I believe he wouldn't have pushed her to be up front.
I remember seeing this live on TV over 40 years ago, and talking about it in school the next day. I never forgot it, but I haven't seen it since, until today.
The video is a bit off, but there is no question she is playing and there is no question, (as a drummer myself for over forty years) she is one damn good drummer ! She really could play ! Its too bad that her life was cut short . She was incredibly talented ! thanks to the person who up loaded this treasure !
@@generaltso6914 They definitely did. There are multiple moments where it's ever-so-slightly off, and one spot where her set keeps playing after she gets up from it, but she seemed to know all the parts nearly verbatim, so I assume she personally pre-tracked it and then for the video capture she is miming herself.
There we'll never be another Karen Carpenter.. she was a one of kind jewel only to ever existed and weren't we lucky to have seen her brilliance in this lifetime. 🌹🙏
Seen a couple of clips of her drumming, she's a badass...I couldn't believe she was that good of a drummer when she had a voice like an angel as well. So some people got it all, and she was really goodlooking too before her illness got the best of her. R I P Karen.
No way in hell is she better than John bohnam, who ever thinks she is better than him is an idiot. I been playing drums since elementary school and I can put her ass to shame.but she was a good drummer but nowhere near my man John bonham. He was simply the greatest drummer of all time.
@@scottpollack5453It was the 1975 Playboy magazine poll. She was 10th and Bonzo was 11th. Don’t know who they polled but I imagine they would have been impressed by a woman with strong wrists.😊
Karen's voice, when it comes to the last few syllables of the lyric line, her voice gets bigger and bigger, yet softer and softer. It does not intimidate or haunt or show off. It just grows more generous and accepting . . . and it has a way of saying: "Come with me. I will show your these neat things that we can share." The sound goes, like, up in her mind and soul, and comes out to welcome us. RIP, Karen Carpenter. I wish I had known you.
I grew up in the Fair Haven section of New Haven Ct. My neighbor ( who has joined Karen in Heaven) Frank Izzo went to school with Karen. Frank also was a graduate of the Hart School of Music and an excellent drummer who helped me get started drumming at age 10. I had an instant crush on Karen when I heard the song Close to you. Her voice and musical talent along with her showmanship are far beyond the highest accolades. Frank once told me "put on a show". I chose to be more stoic, like many of the Drummers I'd seen in the 60's who were all business. This show was amazing and coincidentally, the Carpenters opened the New Haven Coliseum back in 1972!
Karen Carpenters' handling of tones is impressive, with incredible precision, you left us 41 years ago, but our life is better when we listen to your songs, and how much better it would have been with your presence in our lives, I watch your videos and always you are with a smile
So talented, so fun to watch, an absolute joy to listen to, and so undeniably beautiful! It breaks my heart every time I am reminded that she is indeed gone from this world.
Her class, her style, her JOY! I can't help but think that if she had continued playing, she might have survived her eating disorder. She still brings tears to my eyes.
I loved her from the first time I ever heard her. I'm 61 years old now, and every time I hear one of her songs, it just takes me back. RIP Karen, you are missed. Oh, and she could play the hell out of the drums.
I was really surprised to learn in a documentary that she was never comfortable up front in the singing spotlight, her passion was drumming but her stunning voice kind of dictated otherwise.
The media men and producers told her "You're too pretty to sit behind a drum kit. Nobody can see your face. If they can't see your face, why will they buy your albums?"
@@jasoncarswell7458 I've said elsewhere that if she'd lasted just a few more years, Phil Collins would have been around to assure her that nobody cares if you look pretty as long as you can blow them away with your talent
Not only was Karen a great percussionist, one of the best singers of all time, but also an incredible showman.......or show - person if that comes across better. Amazing smile and energy. It seems I appreciate her more and more as time marches on.
well that was something else to watch. such talent and grace....all while having fun and smiling and working the viewers. drumming is a lot harder than it looks too. she was awesome.
Karen was awesome! It's so sad we lost her WAY WAY too soon. My inspiration to play the trumpet, Herb Alpert (I love you Herb--I NEED to meet you!) was so devastated by Karen's death, and rightfully so--even today talking about this makes him cry. And Herb is known for happy music and a happy personality. If I ever see any video of Herb breaking down during an interview about Karen, I'll definitely "lose it" myself. That is just utterly heart wrenching. Karen was a pretty good drummer--very good actually, and she will be so sorely missed. If not for Herb Alpert, she and the Carpenters might never have even had a record at all. Their break out hit "Close to you" features a short piece played on trumpet by Herb Alpert. A great band, memorable music, and a beautiful lady who left us MUCH too early! RIP Karen, hope you are still making music in heaven! Your music here on earth WAS heaven. Rick Delair.
Oh my word!!! I grew up with this band in the seventies... being born in 71 and I had NO idea Karen Carpenter was a drummer?! What the..🤦♀️🤷♀️ And not just a drummer.. but one of our BEST in music history.!! Mind blown! kind of drummer!! Not to mention there will never be anyone who can sing like Karen Carpenter again. Her stunning voice was like syrup.. Easily hitting any notes. And on the first take!!! People can't tell the difference between a recorded song or a live Karen Carpenter song. That's HOW GOOD her voice really IS. She's still very missed. And when a Karen Carpenter song comes on.. you leave it on❣️👌🤙 she was, from the beginning, always a star!
One of the best voices I've ever heard. Surprised to learn she also played drums, but then again not suprised there's even more talent there. RIP Karen.
Neil Peart of Rush was once asked how does it feel to be the world's greatest drummer. He responded I don't know, you'll have to ask Karen Carpenter. RIP to both Neil and Karen, 2 of the best.
God, this is amazing! My first time seeing this and I've been playing for 40 years. I'm not really a Carpenters fan per se, but rather an enthusiast of 70s pop culture. I always knew Karen had talent all around, but never checked her out as a drummer (so much great music, so little time!). As a 70s enthusiast, sure, I'd say the Carpenters had some cuts. As a drummer, I'd say Karen had serious talent, criminally underrated!!! What a terrible loss!!!
imagine if Karen got into the early hard rock and metal like Sabbath and Zeppelin. She probably would've been considered the best female rock drummer ever had she backed a rock band. she's greatly underrated Edit: I haven't noticed how many responses I have gotten because YT never shows them in my notifications but I do want to address all of the haters: stop trying to bring this woman down. I can play drums too. I am nowhere near this woman's level (I'm a guitarist above all). I can't stand people who don't play instruments trying to critique her playing style or chops. She's great. Get over it
She took a public position against "hardness" in rock. Maybe she was repeating what her handlers dictated to her, but in 1973 interviews, she and Richard made some pretty negative comments about Mott The Hoople sucking. Carpenters Org were definitely top--40 focused.
Dear lord, she is embarrassingly bad here. This is basically equivalent to when on a sitcom one of the actors pretends his character knows how to play drums and has to play at some talent show for an episode, and any real life musician is just sitting at home watching the episode, shaking their head. She is hitting some cymbals and hitting some toms lol. She's putting on nice little performance for the kiddies is all this is.
what any man? you mean any great male drummer you pillock! most guys do not play the drums, let alone as good as that! Besides, she was better that the guys.. BECAUSE she was a woman! Women were not meant to, or encouraged to paly drums... HERS WAS PURE UNADULTURATED TALENT!!
I never cared for the Carpenters music, but I have come to appreciate the fact tht Karen was an excellent singer and musician. Please don't feel you have to yell at me because her kind of music didn't excite me. Music is subjective, musicianship is self-evident.
I agree, as a young kid in the 70's I remember my mum and dad playing Carpenters records and hearing them on the radio, but I was much more interested in Queen and liked other groups like Slade, now at 50 years old I find the Carpenters music soothing, Karen's singing was so effortless unlike a lot of modern singers who overdo the vocal gymnastics.
@@locdogg18750 Ok, you don't have to be gay to think Karen Carpenter was a good singer, or to like the music of Slade or Queen or any other music though, it doesn't matter what sexuality or race you are.
Gosh, so much talent, Karen, a total goddess, you can tell she loved playing the drums, and always with her magical smile, the good thing is that there are so many videos and that listening to your songs makes our lives happy.
My mom showed me this video, oh, about six years ago, and my jaw hit the floor. She inspired me for the longest time to become a better drummer. RIP Karen, your missed greatly.
I'm a little ashamed I didn't know how good she was, WOW! I've never seen this before and I'm glad I did. What a cool idea way back then, so cool. So clean so crisp, great control.
Wow. I did not know that KC was such an accomplished drummer. It is just so sad that this girl, so full of life and so talented died so tragically. RIP Karen
She had severe anorexia and she's looks really thin, not healthy at all, but you're right that she looks happy here. I don't know if it's fake or if music made her happy.
@@JaneDoe-ci3gj She looks a lot more healthy here than in her last days, thin yes but nothing bad. Also this is cfrom 1976 so it wasnt so bad at that time.
Karen was a seriously talented drummer ; she had the magic touch that added her unique rhythm of gold that completed the spell of auditory pleasure that once was the Carpenters.
....really, outstanding...when you think of accomplished drummers, there's always the usual names that are mentioned, but least we forget sadly enough was Karen Carpenter, she was a shining star with all the other great drummers...
I remember seeing the Carpenters on T V here in the UK in the late 70's. Karen was playing drums and had a broken right leg if I remember correctly.. Karen was a consumate professional. To me, her voice is still one of the purest and best female voices I have ever heard. "Goodbye to Love" is probably my favourite song, the combination of her voice and that guitar solo is truly amazing. I was broken hearted to hear of her passing, RIP Karen, I can never forget you.
+monokhem You obviously have a bad attitude about Karen Carpenter. Why are you here? There are many many other videos featuring your "heroes". Grace Slick - - indeed!! Worn out has-been.
Man was she talented. Great Drummer and musician but for me, I have have never heard or ever will hear a voice like her again. Her singing to this day still moves me. I wish she was still with us. What a Beautiful soul.
She was an outstanding musical talent. Who are the Karen Carpenters of today?? And by all accounts she was a really beautiful person. Her passing to this day is still very sad. But at least Karen is now as iconic as she is immortal.
@Jimo did i say she wasn't? shows you how talented jack white is. if karen carpenter couldn't sing you would have never heard of her and all this BS about her drumming skills
She looks so joyful here, like she's truly having the time of her life. A phenomenal talent in every area. That she's not still around today is a pure tragedy. RIP Karen.
Behind that public persona, bull dust level, people pleasing smile was a very sick girl. And her stupid family just made it worse for her.
A lot of people failed to realize she WAS the drummer for the Carpenters !!!###
An amazing talent -
It’s called “acting”
I spoke to a person that saw the Carpenters in Vegas before the shows folded.
They said the only time Karen looked happy was when she was playing drums.
I will die mad that Karen Carpenter didn't get more time to record the percussion masterpieces she was clearly capable of.
She sucked!
She would have preferred it. Family pressure to sing.
I will also die furiously that she was a multifaceted talent that was absolutely robbed.
@@islgrl292 familiar? A la familia solamente le interesaba el dinero, quien guardaba la pasión era Kare
You're ridiculous.
Yes, she had a beautiful voice, but one of the most UNDERRATED drummers in music history.
I couldn't say she was underrated, in 1975 there was a poll taken where she's rated/voted above John Bonham of Led Zeppelin as best drummer. As of today Bonham is considered #1 rock drummer (I prefer Cozy Powell or Ian Paice as the best drummer)
Agreed
@John S da fuck dat mean an enchanted flute dat like a skin flute?
@@paulmatsukawa3845 yo dat shit rigged she straight up drown John bonham bitch fed him liquor and pushed him off da boat tryna get his position in led Zeppelin bitch trifflin
@@duanebazazian4909 Speak English, dipshit!
Karen was actually very under rated as a drummer back then. I can tell you this from experience with her. At the end of her solo here when she is doing the symbol work with her right hand. Listen to her left hand. She was doing things only drummers like Buddy Rich were doing at the time. She was also a real doll. I worked The Carpenters briefly. I had a girlfriend at the time that played drums. Karen let her sit on her drum kit and gave her some pointers. Karen was a wonderful lady. I really miss Karen.
nice share
monokhem
She was better than you will ever be...
I'm also old-school in drumming, and I thought the same thing watching just now. She had awesome talent, Buddy-style.
I don't see her really playing, she's drum syncing..
If someone can sync that effectively to a recorded track, they're a VERY good drummer. It'd be harder to sync that effectively to a drum track than it would be to actually play it.
If you watch her arms she's demonstrating the technique of a really good drummer- no wasted movement, forearms really still, lots of doubles, everything is coming from the wrist and the fingers. She looks like someone with wonderful technique.
Karen Carpenter was doubly blessed with tremendous drum chops and a beautiful unmistakable haunting voice. From what I have read, she always considered herself a drummer first, but the voice was the record company moneymaker. RIP, Karen!
I mean, a few bars of we've only just begun and a grown man gets teary eyed and permagrin! me
permagrin?@@PJ_Davis
Note: singing and playing any instrument at the same time is difficult, but drums are a different monster. Her flow? Unmatched.
She has great energy as well. Her whole demeanor is great and it is a shame she had personal issues caused by undesirable people. She was beautiful inside and out.
@@PJ_DavisTHE American wedding song!!!😊
These 70's music specials were so innocent.
...yes...
1976 i was in high school where karen' s bell button pant was so fashionable and in demand
And that’s GOOD. Period.
And the best entertainment ever! Love their Christmas specials. 💙
America as a whole was more innocent. We have become a real dark and mean society. Lol!
Karen Carpenter would be 73 years old if she were alive today. I’m 71 years old and I loved their music. Karen had the voice of an angel. It’s only within the last 10 years that I’ve been able to listen to music by The Carpenters… because every time their music came on the radio my heart broke all over again. Rest In Paradise Karen 🙏💖🙏
Totally agree with you and not far behind you at 69 years old. My 50 year old 12" speakers a friend and I made are perfect for her Golden Voice....✌
wow 73, i guess that would be right, still so young. I wonder if she would have got well many months before her death (let's say 4 months for example), and got back on the right diet and weight , how long would her heart have lasted since it was already damaged? I guess only a heart surgeon would be able to answer that, so please IF YOU ARE A HEART SURGEON, please respond to this comment.
I remember my old man shedding a tear......and he was one of those hard old school pommie coppers
I'm 67 and I miss her so much
I’m putting this comment here to so maybe someone will like it eventually and I’ll be reminded how wonderful of us seeing her Karen Carpenter was
By her own admission, Karen Carpenter wasn't a singer who played the drums, she was a drummer who also sang. She was stunningly talented at both.
Just like Barbara Streisand who considers herself an actor who can sing when clearly singing is their greater gift!😊
As a drummer I have to say she is flawless, polished, old school Buddy Rich style amazing!
Like all cancerous acts in Hollywood, it was a producer who told her "Nobody likes you sitting behind the drums. They can't see your pretty face, and girls like to sing, they don't play drums. Are you trying to sell albums or what?"
Buddy Rich thought she was fantastic
@@JFish-df2ep concuerdo ; pero de ahí , llamarla " la mejor baterista de todos los tiempos " .... bueno , es confesar que nunca escuchó Creecdence , y no quiero abusar , mencionando Samy Davis Jr. , o Luis Benson , o Jin Krupa ...... 🤷♂️ ???
@@CarlosEduardo-mb2sl Yes, Gene Krupa and all were fantastic. Buddy Rich mentioned her specifically...
@@CarlosEduardo-mb2sl Gene Krupa is the only drummer you mentioned... Sammy Davis Jr. was a piano main, he played drums okay... never heard of Luis Benson, can't even find a musician of any fame by that name.
In 1971 I took my then-girlfriend, now wife to see Mark Lindsay at a concert where he opened for the Carpenters. We almost left after his set because neither of us were really interested in the Carpenters. I'm so glad we stayed, because that's one of the best concerts I ever saw and I'm so grateful I was able to see this talented woman perform in person. She's amazing and shamefully under appreciated.
You really rock!!
She was immensely talented as a percussionist; as a singer, her voice was 1 in a billion.
Never really heard her before. She's unique.
Some people have a gift. Yes, she paid her dues, working in small venues, practicing. But she didn't create her pipes. Her 'face mask' comes from her DNA. You can train to sing to the best level your personal instrument can do. I know! I studied vocal technique at a university. I hit the pitches perfectly with no glisses and my vibrato is even and controlled. But my timbre? My timbre sucks! I could vocalize until the cows came home (and with me singing, they didn't want to come home! rimshot!). I could never be a great lead singer. So, instead, I'm a great guitarist!
I agree.
@ mommy daddy mommy daddy momma daddy momma daddy...
Shades of Lionel Hampton
That's the expression of someone doing what they were BORN to do!!!
In an interview, someone asked Neil Peart how it felt to be the greatest drummer in the world. Neil said, "I wouldn't know, you'll have to Ask Karen Carpenter".
That was none other than Chester Cheetah himself.
He really said that? I thought he liked Buddy was the best.
Wow!!! What a compliment!!!!
Neil was a complete class act. Always deflected praise.
@@koolkitties8552 Maybe Buddy just THOUGHT he was the best.
She had a wonderful sense of humor, in addition to all of that musical talent and beauty. A rare bird indeed.
I can't even find a woman that can cook nowadays.
Titus Andronicus And you're a melting Snowflake.
Kitty McRatSlayer WOW! RAT SLAYER. GOOD FOR YOU! I hope you get YOUR RAT!
Human*
@@danieloneal6994 Or wants too!
LOOK HOW HAPPY SHE WAS IT BREAKS MY HEART TO KNOW THE END STORY OF HER LIFE RIP KAREN LOVE FROM TEXAS
Yes! She never wanted the spotlight or to be up front singing, she only wanted to play the drums and do backup vocals. I think the stress of being thrust up front is part of what made her so insecure and led to her anorexia. It's so wonderful to see how she lit up when she got behind the drums. She loved it. Such wonderful talent, gone way too soon. So sad that she never found love.
Fame is deadly at times.
Love the cameo by John Denver! Karen Carpenter was an amazing drummer. RIP x2.
I thought that looked like John Denver.
Right?! I'm like, are not gonna mention another great talent gone too soon?
The joy on her face when she's playing drums!
Just look at that smile on her while she's playing. And just listen to how artistic she is in her playing -- just flawless. Never mind that she is one of the most iconic singers of the 1970s+ -- she would have been a great jazz drummer and showperson. Some people were just meant to be famous for all of the right reasons. RIP, Karen Carpenter.
She WAS a great jazz drummer! She started out as the drummer for her brother’s Jazz Trio!
If she remained a drummer and not forced to be a singer and face of Carpenter fame, we'd likely still have her today.
@@IHaveTheSchwartzwe’ll never know but the vibrancy when she plays does make me wonder… RIP Karen Carpenter ❤
I'm a 64 year old lifelong musician, singer, songwriter who idolized the Doors, Hendrix, Santana and a hundred more, but if you asked me what my biggest rock and roll fantasy is it's always been to have met Karen in person and shaken her hand and looked into the eyes of who in my opinion is the greatest female singer in history.
I'd have to put linda ronstadt before her because of her versatility
@@jamesgarcia6966 hell no!
@@katiegrundle9900 hell yes Linda can sing it all even Spanish
@@jamesgarcia6966 will check her out. thanks
@@katiegrundle9900 she sings country, pop,rock,opera,and spanish
As a drummer I can say she is a natural, has picked-up some Buddy Rich flair and style and has remarkable timing and wonderful fills and creativity. Her another world beautiful, haunting voice is another gold star. Karen was a super talent. So sad about how her life ended so early.
I think it was her daily use of Miralax type of substance that likely did her in.
Her triplets on that hi hat are so effortless. What a woman
Karen Carpenter was a musical anomaly, and genius. I was a small one when she was doing her thing, and - as a footnote, eating disorders suck. A fabulous drummer, vocalist, and percussionist.
She also had people around her pressuring her to eat less. It's a shame that the world was robbed of her so early.
@@Makkis She didn't die to a eating disorder. She died in a very mysterious boat accident.
@@drookor ROTFL You may be thinking of Natalie Wood...Karen Carpenter absolutely died from her eating disorder.
The joy in her face and playing! We're having fun with her!
What can I say? Karen Carpenter was nothing short of phenomenal as a drummer. Her playing speaks for itself. Rest in peace Karen, and I hope to meet you in the afterlife.
She was better, technically, than 95 percent of the drummers then and today.
RIP.
She was a solid percussionist, but saying she was technically better than 95% of past and present drummers is nonsense.
@@marktarr3068 technical skills is nothing if you don't have creativity...and Karen Carpenter had both. She def deserves more credibility in the drumming world.
@@PhoenixSplash didn’t she win numerous votes for best drummer in magazines over John Bonham, Keith Moon and others? She was totally recognized and admired back then. It is sad that all three self destructed
She was good but Meg White is better
There are, and have been, a lot of drummers, and professionals in bands & session playing where insane skill is par for the course have to make up more than 5%, not to mention all the kids who grew up playing in church whose names we’ll never know 🤷🏽♂️
After all these years , I never knew she was such an all around talented musician, RIP you crazy beautiful woman.
She should have dicthed it all... and became a session musician instead!
They live longer
+Robert Dunkes SR her position in her musical career had nothing to do with her dying. she had an eating disorder since her teens
ok, here we go. I was saying that the fame of being a headliner is more taxing and more people wanna piece of you than a session musician. I Am well aware of Carpenters eating disorder, I watched her live on TV when I was younger. My sister had all of her albums, which was and was not a good thing.
L,
So much talent. Makes me sad she did not live to see how far her drumming could have carried her into the 1980's and the collaborations she could have had. Makes me sad whenever I see Karen play or sing, but at the same time, such a pleasure. Her smile is contagious.
There's so few female drummers that The Industry has allowed to exist. In the 70s it was even worse. Karen was perfectly comfortable singing from the kit, but the producers badgered her into being a pop star because that was where the money was. "Girls don't play drums, girls sing".
She didn't realize the power she had, she could have shoved her drum sticks up their butt and said, "I'll be singing from my little chair behind the drums, and by the way , don't ever talk to me again or the highhat goes up your butt next!"
She had enough talent and personality to be they most badassed motel room wrecker ever!
She was too well behaved for her own good, that was the death of her.
Take that as a lesson kid, all authorities are suffering from lack of the public shoving things up their butt!
Helps bells, we used to tar and feather the arrogant mucker fothers.
I watch this every February 4th, to honor her talents, not her tragedies. 😭💖🌟 RIP Karen
Good idea I want to do that next February
i was in a childrens choir that was picked to sing at the Carpenters concert back in 74.. I remember sitting in an empty auditorium between shows just watching Karen run up the kit and tear into it...Just relaxing...
Sounds awesome. What a cool thing to have witnessed as a kid.
For all those complaining about this being cheesy, It never would have been put on television if it wasn't cheesy. It was created as a family variety show special in the '70's for gosh sakes. I'm still impressed by her sense of rhythm.
no your comment is old but Good point and i am sure u will agree, her musical ability was anything but cheesy.
FlyingsCool I don't think it's cheesy. She was a professional drummer. One can tell by the way she hold the sticks and her rudiments. Today's drummers are all about showing off. Sometimes cheesy is the best for of silmplicity.
Who's Gosh?
Let's revisit today's entertainment in 40 years and see how it ages. 😆
I totally agree. I knew from reading about The Carpenters that she was the drummer for the duo, but I had NO idea that she was at this level. The shit she's pulling off here, and seemingly so offhandedly, would make most other "drummers" of today sweat. This is some intense stuff she's doing, and yet it's all done with a warm smile and a sly sense of humor. If she hadn't passed away at such a young age, I do believe she'd still be going, and she'd be even more of a force of nature. What a miracle she was.
I remember that. I never ever missed any of their television appearances. I saw every episode of their television show. Owned every record. I was a huge fan.
I cried like a baby when she died.
As a bassist myself, we love to play with drummers with chops like this.
This was the real Karen!! Playing the drums the awesome way only she could do it, dressed in trousers, moving on stage and being happy!! I can feel how NOT being allowed to be HERSELF led her to her sad end... Yes, she was a beautiful woman and a great singer and songwriter. BUT her greatest passion was to play the drums!!! Not being who you are, KILLS. Here's to you, Karen 🌹
It's because her brother insisted she get out front to be the "chick singer." Terrible thing to do to her.
@@mt.shasta6097 That’s ridiculous.
@@mt.shasta6097 Why would you tell such a lie, unless you are just a casual liar?
@@BlackPrimeMinister I have no reason to lie about Karen Carpenter. It's a known fact that her brother wanted her out front. Go back and read about them. She loved drumming and felt safer behind her drum kit. She That felt like "home" to her. Her brother really did think she'd ENJOY singing out front. Her extraordinary voice is what made them popular, not her drumming. You seem not to know much about band dynamics, and how members influence one another. Oh, and at age 72, I'm hardly a "casual liar." I remember the Carpenters very well.
@@mt.shasta6097 I don't know the history on this and you may be right, and if that's true I'm sure he was looking out for her best interest...and probably his too. If he had any idea how badly that would affect her, I believe he wouldn't have pushed her to be up front.
I remember seeing this live on TV over 40 years ago, and talking about it in school the next day. I never forgot it, but I haven't seen it since, until today.
The video is a bit off, but there is no question she is playing and there is no question, (as a drummer myself for over forty years) she is one damn good drummer ! She really could play ! Its too bad that her life was cut short . She was incredibly talented ! thanks to the person who up loaded this treasure !
Sounds like they added another drum track in places -- confusing
@@generaltso6914 They definitely did. There are multiple moments where it's ever-so-slightly off, and one spot where her set keeps playing after she gets up from it, but she seemed to know all the parts nearly verbatim, so I assume she personally pre-tracked it and then for the video capture she is miming herself.
I’ve watched this a bazillion times, and it NEVER gets old. She was such an amazing drummer!!
There we'll never be another Karen Carpenter.. she was a one of kind jewel only to ever existed and weren't we lucky to have seen her brilliance in this lifetime. 🌹🙏
Her voice was and is the best ever. No one would ever sing like her. I miss her here in Downey California
Been to Downey a few times, my aunt and uncle lived there !
Seen a couple of clips of her drumming, she's a badass...I couldn't believe she was that good of a drummer when she had a voice like an angel as well. So some people got it all, and she was really goodlooking too before her illness got the best of her. R I P Karen.
Just a year prior in 1975 she was ranked in the top 100 drummers ahead of John Bonham. She was that good.
lol, that's only b/c folks didn't know that she never played on any of the big hits
No way in hell is she better than John bohnam, who ever thinks she is better than him is an idiot. I been playing drums since elementary school and I can put her ass to shame.but she was a good drummer but nowhere near my man John bonham. He was simply the greatest drummer of all time.
Better than John Bonham? I didn’t know that we were telling jokes!
@@scottpollack5453It was the 1975 Playboy magazine poll. She was 10th and Bonzo was 11th. Don’t know who they polled but I imagine they would have been impressed by a woman with strong wrists.😊
@Oligodendrocyte139 You know what they say about opinions? They’re like assholes, everyone has one and most of them STINK!
man. she was such a beast. I'm grateful to know who she is even in my generation. RIP Karen... you'll never be forgotten.
I so love Karen Carpenter!! Such an amazingly talented lady!!
Karen Carpenter was one of my biggest crushes.
What a amazing talent behind the drum kit. Lost too soon. R.I.P Karen.
It bothers me that she holds the left drum stick incorrectly.
I’m a 54 year old man! I loved her voice immensely! Karen was a consummate artist!
Karen's voice, when it comes to the last few syllables of the lyric line, her voice gets bigger and bigger, yet softer and softer. It does not intimidate or haunt or show off. It just grows more generous and accepting . . . and it has a way of saying: "Come with me. I will show your these neat things that we can share." The sound goes, like, up in her mind and soul, and comes out to welcome us. RIP, Karen Carpenter. I wish I had known you.
I grew up in the Fair Haven section of New Haven Ct. My neighbor ( who has joined Karen in Heaven) Frank Izzo went to school with Karen. Frank also was a graduate of the Hart School of Music and an excellent drummer who helped me get started drumming at age 10. I had an instant crush on Karen when I heard the song Close to you. Her voice and musical talent along with her showmanship are far beyond the highest accolades. Frank once told me "put on a show". I chose to be more stoic, like many of the Drummers I'd seen in the 60's who were all business. This show was amazing and coincidentally, the Carpenters opened the New Haven Coliseum back in 1972!
Karen Carpenters' handling of tones is impressive, with incredible precision, you left us 41 years ago, but our life is better when we listen to your songs, and how much better it would have been with your presence in our lives, I watch your videos and always you are with a smile
So talented, so fun to watch, an absolute joy to listen to, and so undeniably beautiful! It breaks my heart every time I am reminded that she is indeed gone from this world.
Still one of the greatest youtube clips of all time. I come back here once a year to watch this. Makes me smile, tear up. Never take this down thx!
Truly a huge talent. Loved her voice and her drums. She looks sooo happy here. I wish people would have appreciated her talent more. She is missed.
Her class, her style, her JOY! I can't help but think that if she had continued playing, she might have survived her eating disorder. She still brings tears to my eyes.
My dad loved her drumming...I always loved the Carpenters music, Karen is missed, such a lovely voice.
What a loss she was. So talented, so lovely, she melted my heart again and again. She still does.
Multi-talent, Karen seems to be one of those women who can do everything, just because there's such a strong spirit and will in her.
I loved her from the first time I ever heard her. I'm 61 years old now, and every time I hear one of her songs, it just takes me back. RIP Karen, you are missed. Oh, and she could play the hell out of the drums.
I was really surprised to learn in a documentary that she was never comfortable up front in the singing spotlight, her passion was drumming but her stunning voice kind of dictated otherwise.
Oh?
@warren byrne. Yes
No they pressured her out from her drums. She didn't want too. I think maybe even her brother tried to convince. Bad idea.
The media men and producers told her "You're too pretty to sit behind a drum kit. Nobody can see your face. If they can't see your face, why will they buy your albums?"
@@jasoncarswell7458 I've said elsewhere that if she'd lasted just a few more years, Phil Collins would have been around to assure her that nobody cares if you look pretty as long as you can blow them away with your talent
I knew she played the drums but I didnt know she was this good 👏👏👏👏👏
KAREN WAS A BEAST AT SINGING & PLAYING DRUMS!!! OPENED UP DOORS THANK YOU KAREN :) YOUR DEARLY MISSED!
Cass Clavelli *you’re
@@ACIDICcitric it's the internet no one cares
Not only was Karen a great percussionist, one of the best singers of all time, but also an incredible showman.......or show - person if that comes across better. Amazing smile and energy. It seems I appreciate her more and more as time marches on.
well that was something else to watch. such talent and grace....all while having fun and smiling and working the viewers. drumming is a lot harder than it looks too. she was awesome.
Karen was awesome! It's so sad we lost her WAY WAY too soon. My inspiration to play the trumpet, Herb Alpert (I love you Herb--I NEED to meet you!) was so devastated by Karen's death, and rightfully so--even today talking about this makes him cry. And Herb is known for happy music and a happy personality. If I ever see any video of Herb breaking down during an interview about Karen, I'll definitely "lose it" myself. That is just utterly heart wrenching. Karen was a pretty good drummer--very good actually, and she will be so sorely missed. If not for Herb Alpert, she and the Carpenters might never have even had a record at all. Their break out hit "Close to you" features a short piece played on trumpet by Herb Alpert. A great band, memorable music, and a beautiful lady who left us MUCH too early! RIP Karen, hope you are still making music in heaven! Your music here on earth WAS heaven. Rick Delair.
It's stuff like this that makes me miss the 1970's!
Oh my word!!! I grew up with this band in the seventies... being born in 71 and I had NO idea Karen Carpenter was a drummer?! What the..🤦♀️🤷♀️
And not just a drummer.. but one of our BEST in music history.!! Mind blown! kind of drummer!!
Not to mention there will never be anyone who can sing like Karen Carpenter again. Her stunning voice was like syrup.. Easily hitting any notes. And on the first take!!! People can't tell the difference between a recorded song or a live Karen Carpenter song. That's HOW GOOD her voice really IS. She's still very missed. And when a Karen Carpenter song comes on.. you leave it on❣️👌🤙 she was, from the beginning, always a star!
absolutely! Karen's voice was a gift from God in heaven all mighty..
@@Maya-qx6pb so true! She and her talents truly were gifts from God !!!❣️🙏🎀🤙
One of the best voices I've ever heard. Surprised to learn she also played drums, but then again not suprised there's even more talent there. RIP Karen.
Neil Peart of Rush was once asked how does it feel to be the world's greatest drummer. He responded I don't know, you'll have to ask Karen Carpenter. RIP to both Neil and Karen, 2 of the best.
I doubt that happened. She's a good drummer, not exceptional.
It was a joke. Shes good but not that good.
God, this is amazing! My first time seeing this and I've been playing for 40 years. I'm not really a Carpenters fan per se, but rather an enthusiast of 70s pop culture. I always knew Karen had talent all around, but never checked her out as a drummer (so much great music, so little time!). As a 70s enthusiast, sure, I'd say the Carpenters had some cuts. As a drummer, I'd say Karen had serious talent, criminally underrated!!! What a terrible loss!!!
This is one of the coolest things ever!….I will never think of the beautiful melancholy songs of Karen Carpenter the same.
Thank you for posting. She was, or still is, so underrated as a drummer.
REALLY THE BEST GIRL DRUMMER EVER. nearly a female Buddy Rich with a voice of silk. RIP KAREN
ALIZEE LILLY Shelia E is pretty good
I dunno man. Have you ever heard Janet Weiss of Sleater Kinney and Quasi?
In fact, Buddy Rich was on record as saying Karen was his favorite pop drummer at the time. Pretty strong endorsement.
Joe Day Pop drummer,not best drummer🙄
Don't know about Buddy Rich
I will never stop being in love with Karen Carpenter. She is absolute perfection.
She not only had one of the most angelic, purest, silkiest voice in the world, but she was an outstanding drummer as well. What a talent!
imagine if Karen got into the early hard rock and metal like Sabbath and Zeppelin. She probably would've been considered the best female rock drummer ever had she backed a rock band. she's greatly underrated
Edit: I haven't noticed how many responses I have gotten because YT never shows them in my notifications but I do want to address all of the haters: stop trying to bring this woman down. I can play drums too. I am nowhere near this woman's level (I'm a guitarist above all). I can't stand people who don't play instruments trying to critique her playing style or chops. She's great. Get over it
she was as good as any man.
She took a public position against "hardness" in rock. Maybe she was repeating what her handlers dictated to her, but in 1973 interviews, she and Richard made some pretty negative comments about Mott The Hoople sucking. Carpenters Org were definitely top--40 focused.
Dear lord, she is embarrassingly bad here. This is basically equivalent to when on a sitcom one of the actors pretends his character knows how to play drums and has to play at some talent show for an episode, and any real life musician is just sitting at home watching the episode, shaking their head. She is hitting some cymbals and hitting some toms lol. She's putting on nice little performance for the kiddies is all this is.
Alex G She once said that Led Zeppelin was 'just noise'.
what any man? you mean any great male drummer you pillock! most guys do not play the drums, let alone as good as that! Besides, she was better that the guys.. BECAUSE she was a woman! Women were not meant to, or encouraged to paly drums... HERS WAS PURE UNADULTURATED TALENT!!
I never cared for the Carpenters music, but I have come to appreciate the fact tht Karen was an excellent singer and musician. Please don't feel you have to yell at me because her kind of music didn't excite me. Music is subjective, musicianship is self-evident.
I agree, as a young kid in the 70's I remember my mum and dad playing Carpenters records and hearing them on the radio, but I was much more interested in Queen and liked other groups like Slade, now at 50 years old I find the Carpenters music soothing, Karen's singing was so effortless unlike a lot of modern singers who overdo the vocal gymnastics.
My subjective view is that she is the greatest female vocalist in the history of music and I am 100% right!😎
@@jasonphillips5816 lm gay
@@locdogg18750 Ok, you don't have to be gay to think Karen Carpenter was a good singer, or to like the music of Slade or Queen or any other music though, it doesn't matter what sexuality or race you are.
@@locdogg18750 nice
Gosh, so much talent, Karen, a total goddess, you can tell she loved playing the drums, and always with her magical smile, the good thing is that there are so many videos and that listening to your songs makes our lives happy.
Miss her so much! What a gift that we have videos and recordings. Thank you!
I love the expression of pure joy on her face
What sad story about this wonderful musician that left us so many years ago. She was ALWAYS so amazing
My mom showed me this video, oh, about six years ago, and my jaw hit the floor. She inspired me for the longest time to become a better drummer. RIP Karen, your missed greatly.
What an Amazing Performance!! All those drums & percussion everywhere and not a single microphone in sight. Ahhh, the Magic of Hollywood.
A Class act! Gone to soon. RIP Karen.
I'm a little ashamed I didn't know how good she was, WOW! I've never seen this before and I'm glad I did. What a cool idea way back then, so cool. So clean so crisp, great control.
Wow. I did not know that KC was such an accomplished drummer. It is just so sad that this girl, so full of life and so talented died so tragically. RIP Karen
Oh Karen I know you haven’t been with us for a while but you still make me smile
She looks so healthy, beautiful, and happy here.
She had severe anorexia and she's looks really thin, not healthy at all, but you're right that she looks happy here. I don't know if it's fake or if music made her happy.
@@JaneDoe-ci3gj She looks a lot more healthy here than in her last days, thin yes but nothing bad. Also this is cfrom 1976 so it wasnt so bad at that time.
She should have ate a sandwich or two.
delano62 damn
materialgirl8707 it’s probably because she was playing the drums. It seems that’s when she was truly the happiest.
This performance was beyond description! Bravo!
i love seeing her unbridled joy at drumming, something you saw much less often when she sang
Ahead of her time, talented beyond measure, gifted and 1 of a kind.
And forever loved.
..i remember when I found out Karen drummed..loved her even more-what a talent!
Karen was a seriously talented drummer ; she had the magic touch that added her unique rhythm of gold that completed the spell of auditory pleasure that once was the Carpenters.
....really, outstanding...when you think of accomplished drummers, there's always the usual names that are mentioned, but least we forget sadly enough was Karen Carpenter, she was a shining star with all the other great drummers...
If she had different chromosomes no one would be overlooking her. Hate to be that gal, but it's 100% true
I remember seeing the Carpenters on T V here in the UK in the late 70's. Karen was playing drums and had a broken right leg if I remember correctly.. Karen was a consumate professional. To me, her voice is still one of the purest and best female voices I have ever heard. "Goodbye to Love" is probably my favourite song, the combination of her voice and that guitar solo is truly amazing. I was broken hearted to hear of her passing, RIP Karen, I can never forget you.
Really hamming it up! What a diverse talent she had! Greatest female vocalist of all time. IMO.
otherworld11 Thought the same thing, she could've been an actress, too.
+otherworld11 Oh yeah otherworld, the best!
+James Wagner And comedian, :)
+monokhem You obviously have a bad attitude about Karen Carpenter. Why are you here? There are many many other videos featuring your "heroes". Grace Slick - - indeed!! Worn out has-been.
mstrunn:
ESPECIALLY comedian! She had the sense of humor for it!
Man was she talented. Great Drummer and musician but for me, I have have never heard or ever will hear a voice like her again. Her singing to this day still moves me. I wish she was still with us. What a Beautiful soul.
She was an outstanding musical talent. Who are the Karen Carpenters of today??
And by all accounts she was a really beautiful person. Her passing to this day is still very sad. But at least Karen is now as iconic as she is immortal.
white stripes
@Badass Frank Henry got that right. Oh don't forget, today's people are confused about which bathroom to use
@Jimo did i say she wasn't? shows you how talented jack white is. if karen carpenter couldn't sing you would have never heard of her and all this BS about her drumming skills
@Jimo yeah richard is her meg.
Sarah Bareilles is a very good start.
Omg: She was such a talented musician: We suffered a big loss when she died.
WOW SHE CAN EVEN CLONE HERSELF.... BEST DRUMMER EVER
Srsly ..... What an amazing drummer AND singer.
This video is the ULTIMATE proof that there will never be another Karen.
Lovely, one of my first inspirations, drums and vocals, miss you Karen
This is the coolest thing I’ve ever seen. R.I.P. Karen. 🖤🖤🖤