About the song
“Yesterday Once More,” penned by Richard Carpenter and John Bettis, stands as an enduring classic from the illustrious repertoire of the Carpenters, prominently featured on their 1973 album ‘Now & Then.’ This nostalgic anthem transports listeners through a journey of reminiscence, threading together the melodic tapestry of yesteryears’ hits.
Thematically, the song encapsulates a poignant reflection on the songs that defined a bygone era. It seamlessly transitions into a sprawling medley, encompassing eight beloved covers of 1960s tunes. This amalgamation cleverly simulates an oldies radio program, evoking a sense of timelessness and musical nostalgia that resonates deeply with audiences.
Upon its release, “Yesterday Once More” swiftly ascended the charts, peaking at number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, narrowly edged out of the top spot by Jim Croce’s “Bad, Bad Leroy Brown.” It marked the Carpenters’ fifth single to reach this high, underscoring their prominence in the music industry. Additionally, the song clinched the number 1 position on the easy listening chart, continuing the duo’s streak of chart-topping successes.
Richard Carpenter, reflecting on the song’s creation, revealed it as his personal favorite among his compositions—a sentiment echoed by fans and critics alike for its evocative lyrics and timeless melody. Instrumentally rich, the track features Karen Carpenter’s distinctive vocals layered over Richard’s masterful piano and orchestral arrangements, complemented by Joe Osborn’s bass, Tony Peluso’s electric guitar, and Earl Dumler’s English horn, among others.
Critically acclaimed upon debut, “Yesterday Once More” garnered praise from Cash Box, with its memorable hook leaving an indelible impression on listeners. Its universal appeal transcended borders, becoming the Carpenters’ best-selling single globally and reaching number 2 on the UK charts.
Beyond its original rendition, the song has inspired numerous covers, including notable interpretations by the Japanese trio Candies and rock band Redd Kross, underscoring its enduring influence across diverse musical genres and generations.
In essence, “Yesterday Once More” remains an iconic testament to the Carpenters’ musical legacy, encapsulating the essence of nostalgia and timeless melody that continues to captivate listeners worldwide decades after its release.
Video
Lyrics
When I was young
I’d listen to the radio
Waitin’ for my favorite songs
When they played I’d sing along
It made me smile.
Those were such happy times
And not so long ago
How I wondered where they’d gone
But they’re back again
Just like a long lost friend
All the songs I loved so well.
Every Sha-la-la-la
Every Wo-o-wo-o
Still shines
Every shing-a-ling-a-ling
That they’re startin’ to sing’s
So fine.
When they get to the part
Where he’s breakin’ her heart
It can really make me cry
Just like before
It’s yesterday once more.
Lookin’ back on how it was
In years gone by
And the good times that I had
Makes today seem rather sad
So much has changed.
It was songs of love that
I would sing to then
And I’d memorize each word
Those old melodies
Still sound so good to me
As they melt the years away.
Every Sha-la-la-la
Every Wo-o-wo-o
Still shines
Every shing-a-ling-a-ling
That they’re startin’ to sing’s
So fine.
All my best memories
Come back clearly to me
Some can even make me cry.
Just like before
It’s yesterday once more.