About the song
The Carpenters’ second studio album, “Close to You,” stands as a cornerstone in the duo’s illustrious career, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry since its release on August 19, 1970. Comprising timeless classics such as “(They Long to Be) Close to You” and “We’ve Only Just Begun,” the album not only propelled the Carpenters to international fame but also solidified their reputation for crafting emotive, melodic pop songs that resonated deeply with audiences.
The album’s title track, “(They Long to Be) Close to You,” marked the beginning of the Carpenters’ ascent to stardom, becoming their first RIAA-certified Gold single and their first Billboard Hot 100 chart-topper. Richard Carpenter’s masterful arrangements and Karen Carpenter’s soulful vocals breathed new life into Burt Bacharach and Hal David’s classic composition, making it an enduring anthem of longing and affection.
“We’ve Only Just Begun,” penned by Paul Williams and Roger Nichols, further showcased Karen’s angelic voice against Richard’s lush orchestration. Originally featured in a bank commercial depicting the start of a marital journey, the song transformed into a wedding standard and another Gold-certified hit for the duo.
Beyond the chart-topping singles, “Close to You” boasts a diverse repertoire that highlights the Carpenters’ versatility and musical depth. Richard Carpenter’s original compositions like “Maybe It’s You,” “Crescent Noon,” and “Mr. Guder” stand out for their intricate melodies and poignant lyrics, showcasing Karen’s vocal prowess and Richard’s exceptional arranging skills.
The album’s critical acclaim was matched by commercial success, topping charts in Canada and reaching #2 on the U.S. Billboard albums chart. Its enduring popularity is underscored by its inclusion in Rolling Stone’s list of the 500 greatest albums of all time, a testament to its lasting impact on popular music.
Despite the accolades and achievements, “Close to You” remains a poignant reflection of the Carpenters’ early career and their journey towards becoming one of the most beloved musical acts of the 20th century. With eight Grammy Award nominations and two wins, including Best New Artist, the album solidified their place in music history and continues to captivate listeners with its timeless melodies and heartfelt lyrics.
Video
Lyrics
Why do birds suddenly appear
Every time you are near?
Just like me, they long to be
Close to you
Why do stars fall down from the sky
Every time you walk by?
Just like me, they long to be
Close to you
On the day that you were born the angels got together
And decided to create a dream come true
So they sprinkled moon dust in your hair of gold
And starlight in your eyes of blue
That is why all the girls in town
Follow you all around
Just like me, they long to be
Close to you
On the day that you were born the angels got together
And decided to create a dream come true
So they sprinkled moon dust in your hair of gold
And starlight in your eyes of blue
That is why all the girls in town
Follow you all around
Just like me, they long to be
Close to you
Just like me, they long to be
Close to you
Wa, close to you
Wa, close to you
Ha, close to you
La, close to you