About the Song
The Carpenters, the sibling duo of Karen and Richard Carpenter, have left an indelible mark on the world of music with their smooth melodies and heartfelt lyrics. Among their extensive catalog, two songs stand out as timeless classics that continue to resonate with listeners of all ages: “(They Long to Be) Close to You” and “We’ve Only Just Begun.” Both released in 1970, these tracks encapsulate the essence of love and optimism that defined an era.
“Close to You” was the song that catapulted The Carpenters into international fame. Originally penned by the legendary songwriting duo Burt Bacharach and Hal David, the song had been recorded by other artists but didn’t achieve significant success until the Carpenters’ rendition. Karen Carpenter’s warm, velvety voice brought a new depth and sincerity to the lyrics, transforming the song into a heartfelt expression of longing and affection. The opening line, “Why do birds suddenly appear every time you are near?”, captures the enchanting feeling of being utterly captivated by someone. Richard Carpenter’s meticulous arrangement, featuring a lush orchestral backdrop, complements Karen’s vocals perfectly, creating a rich, immersive listening experience.
Following the success of “Close to You,” The Carpenters released “We’ve Only Just Begun,” a song that has since become an anthem for new beginnings and enduring love. Written by Paul Williams and Roger Nichols, the song originated from a bank commercial before being reimagined into a full-length track. The lyrics, “We’ve only just begun to live, white lace and promises,” evoke the hopeful excitement of embarking on a shared journey, making it a popular choice for weddings and celebrations. Karen’s emotive delivery conveys both vulnerability and strength, while Richard’s arrangement showcases the duo’s signature blend of pop and soft rock elements.
Both songs highlight The Carpenters’ unique ability to infuse simplicity with profound emotion. Karen Carpenter’s voice, often described as one of the most beautiful and pure in popular music, serves as the perfect vessel for conveying the nuances of love, hope, and longing. Her brother Richard’s talents as an arranger and pianist provide the ideal complement, with sophisticated compositions that enhance the emotional impact without overpowering the vocals.
The enduring appeal of “Close to You” and “We’ve Only Just Begun” lies in their universal themes and the genuine sincerity with which they are performed. They capture moments of human experience that are both personal and relatable, allowing listeners to connect deeply with the music. Even decades after their release, these songs continue to find new audiences, testifying to their timeless quality.
For those who appreciate music that speaks to the heart, revisiting these classics by The Carpenters offers not just a trip down memory lane, but a reaffirmation of the enduring power of well-crafted songs performed with honesty and grace. Whether you’re rediscovering them or hearing them for the first time, “Close to You” and “We’ve Only Just Begun” remain shining examples of how music can capture the essence of our most cherished emotions.
Barbara Desetto