The Carpenters, a sibling family duo featuring Karen and Richard Carpenter, created some of the most memorable soft rock and pop music of the 1970s. Known for Karen's warm, soothing voice and Richard's musical arrangements, their hits include "Close to You” "We've Only Just Begun” and "Rainy Days and Mondays”. Their emotionally resonant music and flawless harmonies made them immensely popular. Tragically, Karen's untimely death in 1983 ended their collaboration, but Richard continues to preserve their legacy through various projects.
The Carpenters Career Highlights
1969
Formation - The Carpenters, consisting of siblings Karen and Richard Carpenter, signed with A&M Records.
1970
Breakthrough Album - Released their second album, "Close to You” which included the hit singles "(They Long to Be) Close to You" and "We've Only Just Begun."
1971
Continued Success - Released "Carpenters” featuring hits like "Rainy Days and Mondays" and "Superstar."
1972
Peak Popularity - Released "A Song for You” which included hits like "Top of the World" and "Goodbye to Love."
1973
Iconic Hits - Released "Now & Then” featuring the hit single "Yesterday Once More."
1975
Touring and TV - Released "Horizon” known for "Only Yesterday” and starred in a series of television specials.
1981
Final Album with Karen - Released "Made in America” featuring the hit single "Touch Me When We're Dancing."
1983
Karen's Death - Karen Carpenter passed away from heart failure related to anorexia nervosa on February 4, 1983.
The Carpenters Grammy Awards
The Carpenters won three Grammy Awards, including
Best New Artist (1971)
Best Contemporary Vocal Performance by a Duo, Group, or Chorus "(They Long to Be) Close to You" (1971)
Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal "Carpenters" (1972)
3 Most Famous Carpenters Songs
1. "(They Long to Be) Close to You" (1970) - This Burt Bacharach/Hal David composition became a massive hit and is one of their signature songs.
2. "We've Only Just Begun" (1970) - Initially a bank commercial jingle, it became a wedding anthem and one of the Carpenters' most beloved songs.
3. "Yesterday Once More" (1973) - A nostalgic hit that epitomizes the Carpenters' smooth pop sound and remains a fan favorite.
Quotes from The Carpenters
Karen Carpenter
It's kind of nice to be remembered by someone for something you've done.
Richard Carpenter
Karen was one of the most talented singers who ever lived. I was lucky to have been her brother.
The Carpenters Scandal/Gossip/Trivia
- Karen's Struggle with Anorexia: Karen Carpenter's battle with anorexia nervosa was highly publicized. Her death brought significant attention to the disorder and helped raise awareness about eating disorders.
- Sibling Bond: Despite their professional success, Karen and Richard's relationship was often strained by the pressures of fame and their differing personalities.
- Karen's Solo Album: Karen recorded a solo album in 1979, produced by Phil Ramone. It was shelved by A&M Records and wasn't released until 1996, over a decade after her death.
Legacy
The Carpenters won three Grammy Awards and became one of the best-selling music artists of all time. Despite their success, Karen's struggle with anorexia nervosa led to her untimely death in 1983, bringing attention to eating disorders. Richard continues to preserve their legacy, ensuring the Carpenters' music remains beloved by fans worldwide.
The Carpenters ratings
