The Carpenters are an iconic American musical duo that dominated the music scene for over a decade. Their song “(They Long to Be) Close to You” hit number one on various charts in 1970. The song was re-recorded time and time during the sixties but didn’t do well until the Carpenters’ version. It was their first RIAA-certified Gold single and their first Billboard Hot 100 single that reached the Top 10. “Close to You” was their second studio album, cemented their reputation as a top musical act worldwide.
The Carpenters were made up of siblings Richard and Karen Carpenter, who perfectly complemented each other’s talents. Karen played the drums in the first sessions for “(They Long to Be) Close to You,” but Alpert didn’t like her style. So, Hal Blaine came in and played drums on it, while Richard played the piano, Joe Osborn played bass, and Karen sang. The trumpet part in the middle of the song was another challenge. Richard had a specific sound in mind but had multiple trumpets try to play it, which wasn’t working. Finally, Chuck Findley solved the problem by playing all the parts himself and layering them together to create the elusive sound Richard wanted.
Burt Bacharach and Hal David wrote, “(They Long to Be) Close to You.” Richard Chamberlain originally released it as the B-side of “Blue Guitar” in 1963. The Carpenters signed with A&M Records in 1969, co-owned by Herb Alpert. Burt Bacharach asked Alpert to record the song, but he didn’t feel comfortable with the lyrical content – “Moondust in your hair” – and produced a new arrangement for the Carpenters. Dusty Springfield recorded an early version of this song in 1964, originally scheduled for release as a single and a potential follow-up to her hit “I Just Don’t Know What To Do with Myself.”
In August 1970, The Carpenters’ version of “(They Long to Be) Close to You” became the duo’s song, gaining them an international reputation for a decade. The audience’s positive reactions and applause were overwhelming during the performance. It was a golden era of music where a gallon of milk cost $1.15, eggs cost $0.62, and a gallon of gas cost $0.36. In 1970, Richard Nixon was President of the United States, and the Vietnam War raged. However, let’s pivot gently and focus on the upbeat trivia of the times.
The Carpenters’ music brought joy and comfort to people, regardless of the chaos of the times. Their music was simple, upbeat, and soulful, resonating with millions worldwide. Their music touched people’s hearts and has remained timeless, even after over five decades.
If you haven’t watched The Carpenters’ performance of “(They Long to Be) Close to You” yet, you must. The version is magical, and the song’s message is timeless. The Carpenters’ music is worth sharing with friends because it will touch their hearts too. Share this video today with your friends because everyone needs a little magic.
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