Karen's voice makes me weep. Anyone else find her the voice of an angel?

@darrelhoyt4205

Жыл бұрын

Absolutely.. angelical,her first husband was a $&-"

@maetzchenmusik

Жыл бұрын

She often has got plenty of time as to her phrasing. Hadn't she been a jazz drummer first and foremost? A drummer who sang, according to her own definition. And there are so many long, long notes (reminiscing the cantus firmus of the Notre Dame epoch quite a bit) in many of the Carpenters' melodies … Karen thankfully and delightfully took the opportunity in bathing in them. The result makes melodies breathe, i.e. human: you can easily tune in to such an offer.

@GaMeBoYDaN1

Жыл бұрын

Always have yes

@armastat

Жыл бұрын

Her voice is the only voice I have heard sing that does high and lower notes at the same time.

@maetzchenmusik

Жыл бұрын

@@armastat Try e.g. Cathy Berberian.

Let's give Richard some credit here. ALL the arrangements were done by him, the backing harmony vocals and his piano is all him. He was a brilliant musician in his own right.

@jinnyfahey6689

5 ай бұрын

All that is very true. His singing voice, however, was very ordinary. Without his sister’s voice, he would be known for his arranging and piano playing only.

@lettermenfan32

5 ай бұрын

Yeah he seems unaware of Richard Carpenter's contributions. He spoke as if Karen made up her background singing.

@deandee8082

5 ай бұрын

richard was the brains behind the organization, Karen basically brought the Vocal prowess and percussion prowess early on, after they got big she dropped the percussion but hard to say what input she had in any originals? they did quite a few covers, more than 50% I believe.. but yes I am sure it was richard who took those covers and arranged them to karen carpenter songs, he was a genius at that... driving down hiway 95 thru the middle of nevada it turned AM from PM and the only radio station I could get had richard on doing songs and interview, dont remember a lot of his stories but he did mention the restructuring songs tomake them carpenter songs and he also produced a lot as well..

@robertpolnicky7702

4 ай бұрын

I always thought Richard was underrated. The tracks really did a lot for those songs. It seemed like Paul Williams renditions of his own songs were flat. The nostalgic sound in rainy days and Mondays a lot of it was the track.

@newmoment3654

4 ай бұрын

Let's not give Richard any credit because I think it was all Karen who did everything. Where's all of these arrangements by Richard since Karen died? Maybe Richard was a good pianist, but all the songs were clearly written by Karen> By reading the lyrics, there's no way a male wrote them.

I think Karen Carpenter had a way of sounding emotive without sounding soppy or whiny. It’s emotional sounding yet authoritative at the same time. Truly rare.

@EarlT357

8 ай бұрын

Interestingly, Ella Fitzgerald was much the same and yet, was excoriated for being "emotionless", when singing!

@jjmorris1890

7 ай бұрын

Both Karen and Ella had supreme control of their instruments. It’s not common, it’s ethereal.

@christo930

6 ай бұрын

The problem with the carpenters is they had a very distinct sound they did not deviate from. Even in Goodbye to Love, a song with an electric guitar solo, it is distinctly Carpenters. Even the cover of Jambalaya,a Hank Williams song has been thoroughly Carpenterized. It's possible they would have adopted to the changing musical preferences in the 80s, but I find that highly unlikely. You just don't change what propelled you into superstardom. Very few bands have been able to do that.

@timothyeaton6986

6 ай бұрын

I very much hope that the multitrack tapes from their recording sessions still exist. No disrespect to Richard, but it's his instrumentation that dates their sound, not Karen's vocals. If there is a way to back Karen with more modern instrumentation, her legacy might grow.@@christo930

@themotownboy1

2 ай бұрын

@@christo930 - And what is wrong with that????

I'm a classically trained singer, sang all genres for decades. Knowing what goes into great vocals, listening to her sing is the most comfortable thing in the world. There is no other pop singer I'd rather listen to -- not even the incomparable Barbara Streisand. Her phrasing, her control, the smoothness, the sheer beauty of her voice ... It absolutely breaks my heart. RIP dearest Karen.

@danaturner244

5 ай бұрын

Just curious, because I find them so similar, what do you think about Linda Ronstadt?

@Harry-Storm

5 ай бұрын

@@danaturner244 Great, but not nearly as great as KC.

@johnholliday5874

3 ай бұрын

​@@danaturner244Ronstadt is probably the most versatile vocalist of the late 20th Century. There is hardly a genre she has not tried and excelled at.

@luizportes

2 ай бұрын

Have you listened to the brazilian singer Gal Costa?.

@Harry-Storm

2 ай бұрын

@@luizportes I have a lot. SHe's a wonderful singer. But kc is in a league of her own, imo.

Karen Carpenter's singing makes you happy and sad at the same time. Just magic.

@HeartFeltGesture

Жыл бұрын

She knew the essence of bitter-sweet life.

@jonathanstephens7462

11 ай бұрын

Magic and so tragic.

@Ed-cs6kw

11 ай бұрын

Perfect description.

@davidt3390

10 ай бұрын

I had a girlfriend back in the day who loved Karen, but, after she died, could only listen to about a minute of any song. Rainy days and Mondays would reduce her to tears within 30 seconds. I don't like AOC at all. Hate it. But like the bee gees with disco, I make an unqualified exception to Karen's work. Best Voice Ever

@robertmason8774

10 ай бұрын

Perfect description of her voice!

Karen was 33 when she passed. The day she died I was driving between appointments, it was rainin, the announcer of the FM station interrupted a song to announce her death. He was choked up and said this song was so appropriate, and played Rainy Days and Mondays. I had to pull over as I started to cry. Such a great talent.

@johnwilson2456

Жыл бұрын

i'm pretty sure many of us cried that day

@johndardi1334

Жыл бұрын

It’s funny how you can cry for someone you’ve never met. I cried when Princess Diana died. I never followed her. I wasn’t into the whole Royal family thing but when I saw her casket and the funeral procession I cried. Strange huh?

@4tun1

Жыл бұрын

Actually she was 32, about to be 33. Just missed it.

@dwc0

Жыл бұрын

@@4tun1 Right, she was 4 weeks away from her 33rd. Will never forget that day, Feb 4, 1983, couldn't believe what the radio was telling me.

@kwpres

Жыл бұрын

And those of us who studied about the phenomenon (they were a phenomenon), from all we can gather…she wasn’t perfect (who is) but was a truly nice person. A real tragedy.

some dudes would refuse to talk about the carpenters but rick knows it better! and he is so right doing so. this duo deserves to be treated well. thank you rick. ❤️

Her voice is so angelic. The best way to explain her voice is pure silk, velvety, controlled, smooth, and so light and soothing. No other singer can replicate her angelic voice.

@rsimpson69

8 ай бұрын

Alison Krauss is pretty special too, tho from a different style and era

@Marcos5pb

2 ай бұрын

But believe me, there's a cover called "Tori Holub" on KZread that sings almost the same, without imitating, because it's her natural voice! Many people get emotional when they hear it, just check it out!

Props to Herb Alpert who gave them a recording contract and allowed us to fall in love with their music.

@dr3putt62

Жыл бұрын

For sure…. He was a musical genius along with his partner Jerry Moss at A&M Records

@RowlandGosling

Жыл бұрын

What a kind, insightful and generous comment! Well done!

@ArbeiterInnenlieder

Жыл бұрын

Didn't he also play the flugelhorn himself on Close To You?

@stevetournay6103

Жыл бұрын

I was a huge fan of Alpert as a kid. Happily he is still active, scared to perform in my hometown next spring, and I may try to go to that for old times' sake.

@stevetournay6103

Жыл бұрын

@@ArbeiterInnenlieder It sounds like him but I think it's someone else. Herb does appear on Richard's 1987 solo album Time...

I’ve always said that Karen Carpenter had the best female voice of all time…the richness of it is magical. The Carpenters harmonies were incredible. I miss her terribly. ❤️ 🎶

@jackvonewegen7656

Жыл бұрын

Two others: Eva Cassidy & Judith Durham: All three are world class vocalists. To be enjoyed and never compared!

@anthonyhengst2908

Жыл бұрын

And Karen's enunciation is impeccable

@d.lamarelliott7370

11 ай бұрын

Karen to me is the best female singer because she could make you feel every emotion with her songs

@foolbritannia956

11 ай бұрын

We all do😭

@aaronarmstrongaa

11 ай бұрын

Her voice is amazingly beautiful but also sad

Her voice was pure magic. She is my favorite female singer. Such control ❤

Those were truly the BEST DAYS in music history!! Songwriting, Musicianship, Vocal/Vocal Harmony, Producing, Engineering and Technology all came together!!

Karen doesn't need autotune. She is nearly 100% dead on. There's a guy, think his channel is Wings of Pegasus, who does electronic analysis of singers' pitch control and Karen is one of the most accurate he has ever found. The best.

@chrisladuke7706

Жыл бұрын

Yes, I saw that video. Worth the watch.

@Mikevdog

Жыл бұрын

And, she nailed the songs and their feel with very few takes.

@merryg6670

Жыл бұрын

Fil! He’s great. Love his channel, too

@richman_music_inc

Жыл бұрын

Her timing and execution are second to none.

@markcosta9665

Жыл бұрын

Superstar was one take

Purity. No fancy runs and vocal tricks, nothing gratuitous and show-offy just pure sustained control. Lovely vibrato and perfect pitch. No auto tune. Modern singers take note!

@Tbone51

Жыл бұрын

I agree. So many pop singers are all over the place and can’t seem to just sing the melody and bring out the beauty of the line with the harmonies. It is tiring and tedious.

@stephenhagen234

11 ай бұрын

She was a genuine singer, nothing artificial or put on! Truly one of a kind!

@keithsmoult8886

11 ай бұрын

Karen had a beautiful voice, and Richard blended his talents with her perfectly. It was a rare combination ❤

@Plisken65

6 ай бұрын

​@Tbone51 it started with Whitney "I only sing forte" Houston

@solfly6

5 ай бұрын

Yeah. Purity. Such a pure comforting, heartbreaking voice. Good god what a loss and yes, she was an excellent drummer.

That woman just makes you want to cry listening to her beautiful perfect voice!! ❤

We should mention that Paul Williams was one of the songwriters of many of these beautiful songs. Obviously, Karen had an amazing incomparablly beautiful voice and her brother was an excellent arraigner . It’s a beautiful compilation you have put together. Thank you for all the work you do in describing the music we grew up with.

@Greenredfield

7 ай бұрын

Yea, I'm waiting for him to mention that. They didn't write any of their hits. Maybe co-wrote one or two. I agree their arrangements and performances were nice.

@2paco

6 ай бұрын

ASCAP president and writer of many muppet bangers like Emmet Otters Christmas Jug Band

@jtoves5734

6 ай бұрын

Rick, I found you by listening to my Favorite female singer, Karen Carpenter. I Am a Huge Fan of you now! Keep bringing Amazing Videos of my favorites Artists. IslsndJ

You never confuse her voice on the radio with another singer,so distinctive,so beautiful

@kurtu5

Жыл бұрын

She is like the Kate Bush of Karen Carpenter of the Kate Bush of the....

@kelvynification

Жыл бұрын

Rumer

@ironwood9

Жыл бұрын

@William Adams That's SO true! When me and my wife go shopping every Tuesday at Walmart they pipe music through and it's the same thing the singing is just some person yelling and it all sounds the same

@annademo

Жыл бұрын

100% correct. Nobody sounds like that.

@puggynugz922

Жыл бұрын

Just goosebumps!

I went to the same HS as Karen and Richard though they graduated a few years before me, I still clearly remember the day they came into the band room to tell our/their band teacher, Bruce Gifford, that they had signed a record contract with A&M. I still tear up hearing Karen sing. As others have noted, we lost her way too soon.

@tomwagner6334

11 ай бұрын

THAT is very cool!

@maryvasquez5413

8 ай бұрын

A tale for the generations in your family ❤

@notsure8338

8 ай бұрын

So did I and they were a few years ahead of me too! Kevin Horrell here, what's your name?

@stevenburger7158

8 ай бұрын

AMAZING STORY & PIECE OF HISTORY! GOD BLESS YOU FOR SHARING THAT!

@guitarsrcool4922

6 ай бұрын

They got a record contract with A and M while in High school?

Not only did Karen have a fantastic voice, but she was a phenomenal drummer. I saw the carpenters in 1972 or 73. It was amazing. I had never seen a woman drummer before.

@thomasfisher5742

6 ай бұрын

I wonder if later being more to the FOREFRONT PHYSICALY.. added to her FRAGILITY...such a loss

@SomewhereInTime5059

6 ай бұрын

Yes! She was phenomenal! And was a catalyst to more women picking up the sticks and learning how to play the drums. Thank you, Karen!

@SomewhereInTime5059

6 ай бұрын

​@@thomasfisher5742I've wondered the same. According to those who knew her well, she was painfully shy. But, she could deal with being on stage better playing her drums. She was an excellent drummer & ultimately it was a huge mistake to pull her off of the kit & push her to front the band. It's sad.

@FPS1200

5 ай бұрын

Taylor Swift WISHES she could sing and write like this. Send this to a "Swifty" so that they can hear what actual talent sounds like.

@cdcicaro

5 ай бұрын

@@FPS1200apples and oranges… taylor swift is not and never was a singer (better writer than the carpenters in my opinion tho)

I love Superstar! Her voice and range is unmatched!

My dad passsed away a week ago, & while in the hospital days before he passed on, we would play the carpenters. Which was one of his all time favorite acts. While attached to a respirator, he would still respond by tapping his fingers along with the carpenters music.

@evasenechal8735

Жыл бұрын

Deepest condolences. Music moves souls.

@zaviwavi4900

Жыл бұрын

❤

@5roundsrapid263

Жыл бұрын

I lost my dad 12 years ago now. It’s tough. I’m glad your dad still felt the music until the end.

@LlyleHunter

Жыл бұрын

My deepest sympathies to you.

@michaelloganirvin

Жыл бұрын

MY CONDOLENCES....... YOU WILL SEE HIM AGAIN .................. GOD BLESS YOU

My heart still aches that Karen Carpenter left us too soon. Can you only imagine what else she would have brought to the world with her golden voice. She will forever live on for those who came of age in the 70's. Rest in Peace beautiful Lady.

@Jeanie1107

Жыл бұрын

I can't listen to her voice without breaking into tears. Her death was a great loss.

@GLADHARTS

Жыл бұрын

I was born in 1990, but my mother always played The Carpenters. Karen is my favorite singer of all time and my celebrity crush.

@royjohnson6317

11 ай бұрын

I always believed Karen.s voice was The Best EVER, but LUCY THOMAS is better 22:24 22:25 22:25 22:25 22:27 22:39

@bobwalsh84

11 ай бұрын

Its such a shame,, Cant understand anorexia.

@AlejandroMS67

2 ай бұрын

@@GLADHARTS I've been crushing on her for years too (I'm 57)

I have always thought that Karen was perhaps the greatest female vocalist in my lifetime. Glad to see that Rick loved her voice as well. This is what is GREAT about Rick. While I know good music, and great vocals, when I hear them, I don't know really WHY they are great. Rick has the experience, knowledge, and vocabulary to explain it to me. I LOVE THIS CHANNEL!

Paul Williams, one of the greatest and most underrated songwriters, of all time.

@MrRandyv

8 ай бұрын

And a very distinctive voice.

@richardpeetrinpeetrin9817

8 ай бұрын

"LITTLE ENIS"

@JohnDavis-xk5fi

2 ай бұрын

I don't think he's underrated. He is very highly regarded as a lyricist. I just wonder why we have heard any of his lyrics in such a long time.

Unmistakable. There's lots of great female singers, but she stands alone. The first word she sings you know it's her. So beautiful.

@andysitton1703

10 ай бұрын

This is absolutely true. I played my brother a rather obscure album track I was sure he had never heard before and he identified her in like one second and I'm not exaggerating.

@irishamericanpinupdoll

10 ай бұрын

Exactly! And not a word you have to question what it was she said. The purity was magic.❤

@chrisjeffrey7570

8 ай бұрын

I’d put Anne Murray on the same level singing wise, but Karen was also an incredible musician,, rivalled the likes of Buddy Rich.

@Thadmotor1044

8 ай бұрын

she is an Angel

@markd8469

7 ай бұрын

@@chrisjeffrey7570Yes Anne was definitely tone and pitch perfect. Canadian Songbird

Ric I am 60 years old and I hope your younger audience will listen to more of Karen's singing she is up there with one of the most beautiful singing voices of all time

@jeffoldknow

Жыл бұрын

Sooooo true

@HighwayLand

Жыл бұрын

I am 43 years old and I have been listening to the Carpenters since I was a kid. My grandmother of course gets full credit.

@mikewilliamson2899

Жыл бұрын

I saw a young singer on Tiktok who has a phenomenal voice covering We've Only Just Begun. Was encouraging to see the engagement. They won't be for everyone but those who understand and appreciate vocals and arrangements will hopefully pick it up.

@poeticeclipse

Жыл бұрын

34 year old singer here and I feel so lucky I grew up listening to Karen

@fatmavis

Жыл бұрын

❤❤❤

❤️🎶 Karen Carpenter is an angel, my mother used to listen to her all the time when I was younger, and I told her to shut the radio off. Not realizing how much talent she had. Now my parents are gone I find myself listening to the carpenters every morning.🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽

@JosieN-ns8rm

7 ай бұрын

Karen’s voice strikes you in your soul. So listening to her sing while thinking of your late Mom is a wonderful way to keep your connection with your Mom going strong. 👍❤

@JerseyStyle7

7 ай бұрын

@@JosieN-ns8rmyes thank you very much🙏🏽🎶👍🏽

Heads and tails best voice I've ever heard. Clear and crisp and smooth at the ssme time. Tears flow every time I hear her incredible voice done so effortlessly. I wonder if she realized just how unique she was. Im glad to see others feel as I do about this phenomenonaly gifted human.

@audiophileman7047

5 ай бұрын

Don't forget Richard, her brother. He wrote, arranged, and led the music. They were a terrific team. 😻

@martycee55

5 ай бұрын

"Close To You" by The Carpenters.

@hamishreid8791

4 ай бұрын

@@martycee55 I agree. Easily the most emotional love song that they wrote.

Karen understood how her audience loved her deeper notes. She said, “The money’s in the basement.” Thank you, Rick, for highlighting the beauty of the Carpenter’s music.😍

@lorrieprothero2175

Жыл бұрын

Richard's professor at long beach state, frank pooler helped karen with her voice. Karen was actually a soprano and frank helped her bring out the buzz in her lower voice. My mother was one of her backup singers. I used to sit in on rehearsals as a kid.

Even a rock and roller like me would stop song surfing on the car radio when Karen's voice came on. Just pure magic. A rare rare gem. ❤️

@jiujitsu344

Жыл бұрын

I played rock and metal most of my musical career, and now play R&B and jazz. But The Carpenters will always be one of my favourite groups of all time. Karen's voice is just sublime and so moving.

@claybutler

Жыл бұрын

Same. I listen primarily to metal, progressive rock, grunge, classic rock stuff. But my deserted island playlist definitely includes Carpenters and Barry Manilo.

I always loved The Carpenters. Their music was a large part of my teen years. I loved their music because I am also an alto, and could sing all their songs!

@suzettetaylor6803

14 күн бұрын

Yes! Celebrate all the gorgeous Altos! Bass Clef Divas!

The Tone Sustain She had on the Notes was Truly Amazing !!!

I avoided the Carpenters' music when I was young. When I finally grew up I finally realized what an incredible voice she had. Wow.

@marinagallant1847

Жыл бұрын

Hey, me too!! I never connected when I was younger, but I really appreciate the Carpenters now.

@elkalabaw7665

Жыл бұрын

we were "hip rockers" and we were ashamed to admit that we liked the carpenters.

@tomguffey6313

Жыл бұрын

I was kinda hip (a jock) but loved A/M radio

@d3pr0fundis

Жыл бұрын

It is definitely corny seeming and AM radio compared to something like “Sticky Fingers”. But their music was so well done that you have to respect that the Carpenters were the very best of their genre of music. As I’ve gotten older I definitely have come to appreciate that there is a time and place for everything, even over the top 70’s mellowness.

@suelucey9621

Жыл бұрын

Same!

One thing I loved about Karen was that you could hear every word she sang. She reminds me of those British singers like Petula Clark and Vera Lynn, who enunciated every word clearly.

@davidmintzer3743

Жыл бұрын

EXACTLY! It's a song---music and Words!

@scottmacdowall527

Жыл бұрын

She is in the top 5 all time female singer, she lived a tragic life not understanding her own awesome worth… she had a dominating mother and a poor body image, very sad 😢

@sail2byzantium

Жыл бұрын

This is a great point. I never fully appreciated this before, at least not in any articulated sense (if maybe a fuzzy intuition), but it is absolutely true!

@robin61832

Жыл бұрын

Karen and Petula Clark were each other's fans and personal friends. Petula sang at Karen's funeral.

@wejpasadena1

Жыл бұрын

Frank Sinatra did this as well…enunciation was important to him.

I am 64 and I still listen to The Carpenters…Goodbye to Love is my favorite ❤

@BlazinRiver1

3 ай бұрын

I am 65...metal head...I learned how to slow dance in jr high to the Carpenters and MJ.....if you have not heard this young girl you are in for a treat.....TORI HOLUB - WE'VE ONLY JUST BEGUN

@70sleftover

Ай бұрын

Goodbye to Love is a great marriage of classic Carpenters with "fuzz" guitar. Touch of the hard rock that everyone seemed to clamor for in the '70s, but just a touch.

I love Rick's appreciation and insight. He always brings out the best in a song that is often overlooked, even for the trained ear.

In 1971 I was leaving for Vietnam and Superstar was being played everywhere. When I was returning back to The USA in 1972, Goodbye to Love was being played everywhere. The Carpenters and their music have had a place in my heart since the beginning.

@futfut1

Жыл бұрын

Thank you for your service ,sir.

@alberts2208

11 ай бұрын

Glad you made it back.

@irishamericanpinupdoll

10 ай бұрын

Thank you for your service from this wounded warrior wife and niece. ❤❤

@justtere

9 ай бұрын

Yes, thank you for service. Too little too late I know.

@jeffmutch7640

9 ай бұрын

Thank you for your service seems so insufficient.

Never been my kind of music, but you CANNOT deny the mastery of her voice. Today? Too many celebrities in music, too few musicians.

@ckl5822

Жыл бұрын

Too many celebrities in music, too few musicians….. Damn, you said a mouthful! Well done!

I have four favorites from Carpenters, "Only Yesterday", "Solitaire", "Aurora", and "Eventide". Such beautiful music. I know they made their money on pop music, but there was SO MUCH MORE to hear. So much has never been heard on radio, and, sadly, probably never will be. These are things we have to hunt for.

@whitsundaydreaming

7 ай бұрын

I see you love Horizon as much as I do. I remember the week it was released and I bought it instantly. It showed a brewing of Richard’s skills and prescient song selection, making it a standout of its time. “Morning opens quietly, a shadow vision over me, I know you well….”

Some of the most beautiful music ever created. Her voice was truly that of an angel, and Richard’s arrangements were beyond reproach. I never realized how much I listened to them as a kid, but I know the lyrics to nearly every song she sang. I miss her so much and am so sad that we will never hear the other lovely treasures she could have provided the world. That being said, she bestowed a rare beauty on the world and I feel blessed to have witnessed it.🙏🏼❤

"Superstar" is my absolute favorite song from The Carpenters. This song makes my eyes well up with tears knowing she is no longer with us. Karen Carpenter is irreplaceable. There will never be another.

@petesawchuk

Жыл бұрын

Written by Leon Russell.

@juliejenkins799

Жыл бұрын

It is by far her most iconic song she had ever sung. It will always be my #1 from the Carpenters.

@EmilyTienne

Жыл бұрын

@@petesawchuk Leon was an unmatched talent too.

@petesawchuk

Жыл бұрын

@@EmilyTienne Without question - a rock & roll Renaissance man.

@tallentjack

Жыл бұрын

Same

You hear Karen and you KNOW who it is. A voice that is timeless.

Wonderful...melancholy voice...deep and meaningful.....romantic....they sang alot of good songs...

I'm right there with you Rick on the Carpenters. They were played on the radio A LOT back in the day and it was something that you never forget. Anyone who heard it couldn't ignore the talent! The beauty and joy that gets instilled while listening to it is amazing. It's a timeless talent that will live forever. And with you keeping that unmistakable sound alive, much appreciation to spread that talent abroad 💞 Thank you

I heard them live when they performed at my college. I was stunned that they sounded like their records. They played through Kustom amps and P.A.. That was it Their success was just taking off. After the performance, they were breaking down their own gear...no road crew. I just walked up on the stage and started talking to Karen while she was tearing down her kit. I asked her how they were able to nail the blend of those complex harmonies. She said while they were playing gigs at Disneyland, they took individual voice lessons (with the same vocal coach) on one day of the week then the whole band would have a group vocal lesson with the same coach for blending work. The result was they nailed their harmonies as polished and beautiful as the records. I learned later that Karen and Richard did all the background vocals on the records. There were six members in the live band and they all sang so I just assumed it was all of them recording the vocal background... it was that good. She was such genuinely kind musician to take the time to explain their process. A memory I'll always treasure. P.S. She was a great drummer too!

@Janestjohns

Жыл бұрын

Fabulous memory 💖

@Fuzcapp

Жыл бұрын

Great story. A wonderful moment you'll always cherish. I'm a bit jealous! 🙂

@jazzpunk

Жыл бұрын

The good ol' daze...Kustom amps and walking right up to the musicians for a chat. Wonderful!

@jrb123able

Жыл бұрын

❤

@1mann1chor

Жыл бұрын

I remember Hearing her say in an Interview she was annoyed of being asked about her Hair and her dresses and never about the music. So apparently You touched the right string with Your question! Thank you for sharing that memory.

Hey Rick, you have to get Richard Carpenter in for an interview! He is mostly responsible for those beautiful arrangements. Love the Channel.

She sings with such assurance and understanding. She's not just reciting or performing a piece , but completely inhabiting the mood, melody, meaning, development and drama. At the end, you feel like you had the most warm, natural conversation, without having to do a thing yourself! I can't think of another singer who does that.

Karen's angelic inspired voice must be kept alive for this time, to soften and bring beauty to what Don Henley called "such a graceless age". We need this gorgeous soul's voice in the world now more than ever. Love from Chuck in Durham, NC

Karen's dynamics set her apart. Not only does she swell in volume at the end of a phrase, she opens her mouth during the crescendo to alter timbre at the same time. It's engaging. It feels like she's turning her head and singing to you, personally. Not been replicated or equaled.

@joesuhrada5615

Жыл бұрын

Oh man, that is EXACTLY what I have always said about her delivery. Like she is talking to YOU, and you intimately. It’s a combination of her timbre, the way she adjusts it, and the feeling she puts into her phrasing and timing (her dynamics.) So you have said this perfectly and analysed from the most learned perspective. I have explained this before to rubes who said she wasn’t special. The closest others came include Matt Monroe in a simple way. On a small handful of numbers, Sinatra conveyed this, to wit: “I Have Dreamed” and “The Way You Look Tonight” and a few others and he has a body of work that may be the greatest overall next to Ella’s for a vocalist in the 20th century. Do you agree? I would think we could talk about this for hours, because you are the first guy I saw define this the way I do and I am certain about it!

@usaskjock

Жыл бұрын

Eva Cassidy was the only other singer with as clear a voice or as masterfully skilled at dynamic phrasing

@oliviaedralin1436

Жыл бұрын

Wow very well mentioned,,,

@spenguinfan2967

8 ай бұрын

Yes! The dynamic changes in We've Only Just Begun" are what make it mind and soul shaking.

Her voice always brings tears to my eyes immediately. Superstar kills me every time.

@darrelhoyt4205

Жыл бұрын

Me too..😢

@janasorensen2556

Жыл бұрын

I'm glad I'm not the only weepy one. Born in 1961, Karen was definitely my first influence.

My heart aches hearing this. She and Richard had it all. She slipped through our hands - The Carpenter's were so unique and they left such an impression on me and our family......RIP Karen. Peace to Richard - Rick I love what you do and how you do it......all I can say is thank you

@timmcgregor9914

14 күн бұрын

❤🙏

My first concert at 12 yrs old was the Carpenters. I have always loved Karen's voice. It was so beautiful and clear. You always understood every word and the feeling of the song. Over the years I have seen many singers and bands and I have seen many several times. It's crazy but it wasn't until recently that I have noticed Adam Lambert. To me he also has the clearest voice and what control. With him it's been years of training, but to me he's my male Karen Carpenter equivalent. It took 50 years to find someone I liked as much as her.

@dragonmummy1

5 ай бұрын

Yes. I hadn’t thought about it before but Adam’s voice has that same quality. Such depth and feeling.

The Carpenters were that one unique group that both hippies, hard rockers and our grandparents ALL LOVED. Can't think of another that ever accomplished that much crossover appeal.

@ogenmatic

Жыл бұрын

Great point. Near universal appeal. Hard to accomplish in an industry where success is often measured by being different. Having obtained that broad appeal made them different which, in turn, brought them well deserved success.

@DerekDominoes

Жыл бұрын

Except it was never "cool" to admit you liked them at the time.

@tooties545

Жыл бұрын

The Beatles

@ronaldowens1927

Жыл бұрын

John Denver has a tremendous amount of cross-over appeal.

@stevenkoehler6018

Жыл бұрын

Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass also had major overlap appeal between demographics

Karen Carpenter’s annunciation of lyrics is incredible. Every word is heard without the ‘t’s and ‘s’ getting in the way and she’s able to emphasise words, whilst doing all her other incredible dynamics.

@ArmpitStudios

4 ай бұрын

Unlike today’s pop stars who tend to sing as they’re trying to prevent themselves from vomiting.

Brings tears to my eyes ! So good.

I don’t try to explain her, I just listen mesmerized.

Superstar is one of the ten greatest ballads of the entire rock era. It's a hauntingly beautiful melody, wistful and aching, with its morose lyrics and perfect arrangement: Karen just merges into the song at every turn (and as many know she sang the verses' lyrics off a napkin in one take). Her rich alto and impeccable delivery make it seem as if Leon Russell wrote the song for her. To me it will always be the greatest Carpenters song: it holds up under every single hearing and gets you every time. A tour de force.

@Our__Earth

8 ай бұрын

Agreed !

@joycerichardson1810

8 ай бұрын

I agree.

@ralphh.2200

8 ай бұрын

Yes her voice in those lower ranges in this. ...second show... just the radio...most sensual tone I've heard ever, as though it was meant to me personally...any guitarist in a band who was chased by a groupie type must think more softly about her after hearing these words

@Our__Earth

8 ай бұрын

And her version of This Masquerade. And “solitaire” which was written by by Neil Sedaka.

@leesbegley6231

7 ай бұрын

YES! Superstar is stunningly beautiful. Or perhaps, hauntingly beautiful!

Her voice evokes the exact emotion of the song she is singing. She never pushes…everything sounds natural and perfect.

@mosart7025

Жыл бұрын

Yes! Never is showing off or trying to hit the diva notes. Eva Cassidy was like that. It just seems effortless.

She does one thing most beautifully that most singers struggle. Hitting the low notes in pitch and melodically. Most singers, when they do her songs raise the key.

Agree. One of the best voices ever. Flexible, deep, clear, full of light and colours, strong low, power high. Vibrant if needed, soft and flat also. All singing options made to look easy. Miss her.

Karen had one of those clear, precise and melodic voices, kind of like John Denver had, very rare these days, So beautiful, so pure.

As I'm sure many have already mentioned below, she was just 32 when she died. I can't imagine my childhood without her voice. So beautiful yet so melancholy. If you were a bit of a sad kid growing up in the seventies, chances are, her voice spoke directly to your heart. It sure did mine.

@Jill_SmokeandMirrors

Жыл бұрын

There was a time at high school when a few of us all flew in the face of fashion and 'came out' as Carpenters- lovers. Looking back now I realise we were all a bit broken in our own ways. Think we all heard that in Karen's voice and Richard's melodies. A clarion call for the damaged.

@ironwood9

Жыл бұрын

It's so crazy to think how when Richard and Karen started as a duo, I believe it was to promote his piano playing....him....I could be wrong, but I know the focus was not her AMAZING voice.... I love how Rick gets into music theory...."oh, there's the dominant 11..."

@MrSwanley

Жыл бұрын

@@Jill_SmokeandMirrors Yes, for some reason the Carpenters in their day were seen as not cool. I guess they didn't fit the guitar band rock mold of the time, nor were they R&B, nor any other easy category. Even worse, I guess they were the sort of band your mom and grandma would like. But for me at least they were a guilty pleasure, and I now suspect for most others too. There was just no denying that voice.

@cindylutz7442

Жыл бұрын

Truth.

There's noone out there like her today - 100% perfection and at the same time so effortless on spot and soothing, always brings a tear to my eye anytime I hear her, what a sad sad loss 😞

Yes, Close to You is amazing. We sang it as fifth graders with dear Mrs Clark. When I hear it, I think of my precious children.

My Uncle D worked at A&M RECORDS HOLLYWOOD from 1969-1999. Beginning at age 7, I would be allowed to go to work with him during my summer school breaks. I literally witnessed music history being made behind those gates and the kindness of Herb Alpert. My own music journey playing piano and flute was heavily influenced by watching Richard and Karen LIVE at A&M. Almost 40 years after Karen's tragic death, she is still the BEST FEMALE SINGER and nobody else can touch her vocals. Richard is still the master of composition. " SING" 1973 is my favorite Carpenters song. Also, every song on their "Christmas Album."

@dragonflySummer09

Жыл бұрын

Wow! What an amazing experience!!! I would have absolutely loved to be there 💜🎶🎹

@JoniSare

Жыл бұрын

Please share more! Rhonda, you were that fly on the wall that I had wished to be. Amazing. I want to know- did they sing the songs as the composer wrote them or did they make any changes during the recording sessions? Did they laugh and joke around …or more serious? Can you give more scene setting description?

@greggoreo6738

Жыл бұрын

What a beautiful life , and boy hood, and Muse 0f talent for music that you have had. If you're ever discouraged. Just reflect on those wonderful days. Those gifts are still you. God bless you. Gregg Oreo long Beach Ca

@thequeendt

Жыл бұрын

What an honor! ❤

@VocalEdgeTV

Жыл бұрын

Absolutely. Their two Christmas albums occupy the number one spot for me.

The best part of these videos is watching Rick's absolute love of the music he is listening too. Its infectious.

@godden62

Жыл бұрын

YES! Loving watching his absolute joy listening to these fab songs

The song that I can never get enough of is "Goodbye to Love" -- once I hear it I keep singing it over and over to myself...and what amazing guitar solos!

Probably the purest clear voice of our times. She made it look so effortless.

"Goodbye to Love" is another song that is right up there at the top for me.

@jameskirk9996

Жыл бұрын

Oh ya. That guitar solo raps up the song powerfully..

@robinbaylor2672

Жыл бұрын

And “Sing a Song”. Written for Sesame Street, but she made it her own.

@stevetournay6103

Жыл бұрын

Goodbye To Love is near the top of the list for me too. And it truly is a Carpenters song, written by Carpenter and Bettis, not a cover. The inclusion of the "fuzz guitar" (by Instant Joy's Tony Peluso) made that 1972 classic the very first power ballad, too.

@thomasluby1754

Жыл бұрын

"For All We Know" was another hit they had that Rick did not mention.

@Sraheens1

Жыл бұрын

@@thomasluby1754 One of my favorites.

Richard was an unsung hero of the Carpenters. The combination of Karen’s soulful voice and his knowledge of instruments and how and why to use them, along with the layering of harmonies, was masterful.

@SoCalGal1952

7 ай бұрын

I watched a documentary about the Carpenter’s and Richard became very jealous of Karen’s fame according to the doc. He is a master musician and did most of the mixing and instrumental’s. Their father got them started in music.

@gregscupholm254

7 ай бұрын

His arrangements were pretty much perfect for elevating each song into all it could ever hope to be. Richard's a prodigy.

@LisaHouserman

7 ай бұрын

Yes I don't think he gets enough accolades for his arrangements. Of course I live for Karen but Richard did the arrangements and should be praised for such. He is a musical genius for sure. @@gregscupholm254

@debbiemeuser3778

6 ай бұрын

It was my understanding that Richard did their arraignments

@LisaHouserman

6 ай бұрын

My understanding as well!@@debbiemeuser3778

Karen had a remarkable bluesy voice, all her notes had deep feelings. I think Superstar best highlights her vocal talents.

From my ages old ears and mind but with no music theory... I find the music of the 70's beyond incredible. And you, sir, make this oh so sweet.

Carpenter's harmony was unbelievably rich and under rated. Man, her voice always touched my heart and gave me goose bumps. All my childhood sentiments.

@cattymajiv

Жыл бұрын

Please STOP using the incredibly overused word underated ! ! !

@clarkem4119

11 ай бұрын

@@cattymajiv THANK YOU, it drives me bonkers. NO ONE is underrating the Carpenters' harmonies. Holy christ.

Richard's arrangements were the unsung heroes of these songs, absolutely phenomenal

@daveyest

Жыл бұрын

Absolutely. The arrangements were excellent and really improved the songs big time. I think there was a touch of genius there. Richard really knew what made a good pop record. The vocal harmonies were one of the big attractions for me.

@nickmariotti4241

Жыл бұрын

@@daveyest Richard was brilliant. But when you are in a duo with Karen, there is only the possibility of second place. I think even Richard would admit this. Karen was one of the most perfect voices ever to move air.

@daveyest

Жыл бұрын

@@nickmariotti4241 No second place for either. They were definitely a duo. A lot of the appeal was her great singing, but without Richard the songs wouldn’t have cut. I love her voice, but her solo album was pretty mediocre and dull as there was none of Richard’s genius in the arrangements and production.

@nickmariotti4241

Жыл бұрын

@@daveyest No intention of denigrating Richard. As a keyboard player of far lesser talent myself, I have enormous respect for his abilities. In my opinion there was no "Carpenters" without them BOTH. It just seems to me that the gap between Karen and practically all other singers was even greater than that separating Richard from other composer/arrangers. I mean, if I might mention Richard in the same general ballpark with a Brian Wilson or a Burt Bacharach or a Jimmy Webb, I can't think of any singers anywhere nearly as close to Karen. There's really no one else in her ballpark; she's actually in a whole league, all by herself. I don't mean to say she was the "best" because that is too subjective and I don't get into saying one artist is "better" than another--we all have those we like and some more than others. I am just trying to express how extraordinary Karen was. I really can't think of anyone like her. It was not JUST her low range, her phenomenally accurate pitch, always nailing the tonal center, her immaculate phrasing, her smoothness--any ONE of those things would have made her a great talent. She had ALL of them. I know there's no way to express how apart from the rest I believe she was without it sounding like I'm putting Richard down, but that is not my intent. There was definitely a synergy there as neither was really successful without the other. You rightly mention Karen's solo album but it is also true of Richard's post-Karen career. It might be fairly said that Richard, understanding her abilities, and also being her brother, got more out of her than anyone else could have. He used her brilliantly as the primary instrument in creating the unique Carpenters sound. Karen's loss was deeply tragic, for all of us who loved the Carpenters' art and inexpressibly more so for Richard, as he lost his blood sister and musical partner and collaborator. She was irreplaceable. I feel certain he understood this which is why he never tried to.

@RodolfoUBRS

11 ай бұрын

he cruelly exploited karen, even many years after her death, he profited from his sister's record which he did not allow to release while she lived.

My favorite Carpenters song is their version of Leon Russell's "This Masquerade." Absolutely love it.

@mariaadam1047

5 ай бұрын

Yes! It came out when I was a kid, and her voice was perfect for that song!

It was tough as a young teen to try to act macho then listening to a Carpenter's song and weeping like a baby. I don't recall getting caught thankfully. She held and played my heart strings.

“Merry Christmas Darling” is an absolute masterpiece. “but I can dream, and in my dreams I’m Christmasing with you” - the chord changes and melodies are so beautiful and unique, great to play on guitar 🎸

@MichaelSmith-ig8bw

7 ай бұрын

Merry Christmas Darling absolutely destroys me!

Everyone always talks about how absolutely amazing Karen’s singing is, which it is SPECTACULAR! But one of my favorite parts of these songs is Richard carpenters background vocals! The ways the brother and sisters voices merge is so good

@larrytate4586

10 ай бұрын

The were multi dubbing their voices to get that sound. Richard was a genius in the studio, while Karen could sing what he was trying to convey.

It's funny how you reacted to "Close To You" when Karen started singing 22:48. You cocked your head and were fully concentrating on her vocal. That's how I remember it as a 13 year old back in the summer of 1970; it stopped me in my tracks and I was mesmerized...

As a trombone player, I would listen to Karen Carpenter to learn legato phrasing and vibrato to get that buttery smooth sound that can only be achieved by a human voice or on the trombone - haha! But, really, Karen’s voice is indeed angelic, as another commenter mentioned. So unique and rich and musical and timeless and makes me feel the music just so deeply. Listening to The Carpenters is a singular experience still, even after all these years!

Dad chose Top of the World for his funeral as a tribute to my mum Not a dry eye in the house 10 years on it still brings tears to my eyes

@karenpoe6345

Жыл бұрын

My Daddys favorite too! It's still so hard to hear♥️

@glennwallace9203

Жыл бұрын

It really is a brilliant song, and so lovely to hear her sing it live, and she adds a "yee haw" at the end.

Perhaps, you can invite Richard Carpenter in for an interview and discuss his incredible arrangements.

Karen's voice is definitely one of a kind. So beautiful and timeless. She was also an amazing drummer. R.I.P Karen.

In 1973 I had the opportunity to sing with the Carpenters as one of a group of grade-school kids doing the backing vocal on their hit "Sing" at a show in my hometown. It was a huge thrill for me and my first and only touch with stardom. Of course I became a huge fan. Their music was so melodic and beautiful. Even my classical-leaning parents enjoyed it. My heart was broken when I heard Karen had passed away. Their music will always have a special place in my heart.

@ChipsAplentyBand

Жыл бұрын

So glad you had the experience of performing with Rich and Karen!

@ghaus1961

Жыл бұрын

Cool ,what a thrill that must have been.

@michelenolastname

Жыл бұрын

How cool. You must have been in a kids' choir to get that opportunity. Sing is one of my favorite Carpenters songs because of the lyrics, tune and the children's voices. "Don't worry that it's not good enough for anyone else to hear" gives me goosebumps.

I got to see her in concert once. And she was pure perfection. Perfect pitch, perfect control, perfect look. She was incredibly beautiful in person, and everyone knew it. But her voice!! That was the true star of the show! It was so melodic and full. Best female voice of all time!

@jumpgenx2571

3 ай бұрын

Wow! What an experience that must have been. So happy you were able to experience that. 💕

"Close To You" was a hit when I had my first serious girlfriend. It has meant so much to me over the years and there are so many memories attached to it. Though our worlds parted many years ago and we both got married and had our own families we recently got back in touch.

@bczzar1

3 ай бұрын

I met my first comedic girlfriend around then

My first grade teacher played The Carpenter’s Greatest Hits during “nap time” (20 min of downtime) it was the mid 70’s. I wasn’t sleeping. I was listening.❤

I have an uncle who was a professional local singer, and during one of his shows he talked about Karen being one of his greatest influences. He mentions how her voice will forever be unmatched and timeless, because you will never not understand a word she has ever sung in her songs. She so pure and clear. Legend.

@capeflattery6179

Жыл бұрын

That is such an insightful and useful way of looking at singers--you can understand every word she sings. It also makes me think of another singer 20 years later--Layne Staley. Despite all that noise and distortion, you can understand every word he sings, as well.

I grew up with Carpenters music, and learned to play several of their songs. I cried when Karen died. I have never heard a female singer before or after her even come close to the beauty of her voice. Rick, thank you for this tribute. I got to hear my first love again.

@joerumler6190

Жыл бұрын

First love indeed....great years....

@dorland3

Жыл бұрын

Barbara Streisand couldn’t tie KC’s shoes…

@freemenofengland2880

Жыл бұрын

Her and Minnie Riperton. Both taken much too soon.

@tonyb9735

Жыл бұрын

@@dorland3 "Barbara Streisand couldn’t tie KC’s shoes…" Do we really have to turn this into a competition? How old are you?

@dorland3

Жыл бұрын

@@tonyb9735 Lol. I’m 56. I’m sorry my comment upset you.

I cry everytime I here "We've Only Just Begun". I lost a girlfriend to a brain aneurysm in the 70s and this was our song..

I was living in London when it was announced that Karen Carpenter had passed away. For the whole day, most of the national and local radio stations played Carpenters' songs almost the whole day in tribute to her. A very sweet but sad memory for me. Another singer whose voice is something like Karen's voice but which was more crystalline is Teresa Teng Li-Chun (1953-1995). She was a Taiwanese singer whose emotionally resonant songs captivated audiences across Asia for almost 30 years. Considered as one of the most successful and influential Asian popular singers of all time, especially to Chinese pop. "Wherever there are Chinese-speaking people, there is the music of Teresa Teng". She recorded more than 1,700 songs throughout her career, starting at age 14, not only in Mandarin, but also in Hokkien, Cantonese, Shanghainese, Japanese, Indonesian, English, and Italian.

As a terminally depressed musician, thank you for your channel. It helps me find some passion for music again. For what it's worth.

@christopherfarlow

Жыл бұрын

Search for Eckhart Tolle

@GaryBradleymusic

Жыл бұрын

I'm a psychologist, producer, have PTSD and grew up through the Troubles in Northern Ireland. Music is great for coping but when a super educator like Rick begins to communicate, it all becomes so inspirational and even therapueutic.

@andre.1984

Жыл бұрын

Why are you depressed?

@briansaban3849

Жыл бұрын

@@andre.1984 Clinical depression doesn't usually have a reason

@dekelsey1

Жыл бұрын

Praying for you... You are loved. 1 John 3:16 and John 3:16

Karen's vocals were hauntingly beautiful. Her ability to sing the low octaves is unparalleled. I would have loved hearing her cover Patsy Cline's "Crazy". I remember driving by her and Richard's apartments in Downey, CA as a kid. Thank you for doing the in depth review. In the 70s, especially in LA, it was a love/hate thing. Many of the "music personalities" of the day labeled them as too "bubble gum". They were nothing short of myopic. These were ELITE level musicians. Our music today isn't even worthy of being called music in comparison to this. Thank you for finally being the one that mentioned the influence of music greats "Bacharach, Albert, Moss, etc." What a huge loss! Great review, your efforts are appreciated.

@gerrybaker7155

6 ай бұрын

Patsy, cline had the with Crazy, but it was written by Willie Nelson

Karen always listed her occupation as "Drummer." Phenomenal. The melody in her voice is so beautiful. You can understand every word. So eloquent. Here in Australia, we had a wonderful singer called Judith Durham who sang with the band The Seekers. Although she sounded different to Karen, her delivery of the songs and the clarity of her voice reminded me of Karen Carpenter (but higher in register).

Dude, I have loved her since the early 1970's when I was a kid. She was just 32 when tragically passing away. Thank you for this video man!

Glad to see The Carpenters getting the recognition they deserve from you. I always liked "Superstar."

@jonstreng7850

Жыл бұрын

These ladies are tremendous. You really need to devote a video like this to the latest terrific vocalist we just lost: Olivia Newton - John.

I grew up with the Carpenters! I love their music to this day! Karen's voice is like no other. ❤❤

@karenkatz9850

Жыл бұрын

Walked down the aisle to it❣️

Really like Solitaire , her voice is incredible, crystal clear in that song especially.

I wish I could go back in time and whisk her away and get her the true help she needed. She could have eaten healthy and had great health and still been happy with her shape, build, and appearance. She was stunningly beautiful to me. Her musicianship and vocals were second to none. It’s a damn shame she isn’t still with us on this earth. If there is a Heaven and I am lucky enough to get there, I am for sure going to watch her perform!🌟

Not many vocalists can make me cry with the very sound of their voice. She is at the top of a very very short list.