About the song
The Carpenters – a name synonymous with soft rock harmonies and heartfelt ballads – delivered a timeless masterpiece with their 1971 hit, “Rainy Days and Mondays.” This poignant song, penned by Paul Williams and Roger Nichols, captured the melancholic beauty of life’s quieter moments.
Emerging from the duo’s self-titled third album, “Rainy Days and Mondays” was a departure from the upbeat pop anthems that had propelled them to stardom. Yet, its introspective nature resonated deeply with audiences. The song’s sparse arrangement, featuring the Wrecking Crew’s instrumental backing, provided a perfect canvas for Karen Carpenter’s ethereal vocals to shine.
With a demo initially sent to Richard Carpenter by Williams and Nichols, the song immediately struck a chord. Recognizing its potential, Richard felt that it was a perfect fit for him and Karen to record. Recorded shortly before Karen’s 21st birthday, the track showcased her vocal prowess in a way that was both intimate and powerful.
“Rainy Days and Mondays” quickly climbed the charts, peaking at number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its success was a testament to the song’s relatable lyrics and Karen’s emotive performance. While it was kept from the top spot by Carole King’s “It’s Too Late”/”I Feel the Earth Move,” “Rainy Days and Mondays” solidified the Carpenters’ status as one of the most beloved musical acts of the era.
Despite its initial UK chart failure, the song’s enduring appeal led to a resurgence in popularity decades later. Its timeless message of finding solace in the simple things of life continues to resonate with listeners of all ages. “Rainy Days and Mondays” remains a beloved classic, a testament to the Carpenters’ musical legacy and the enduring power of heartfelt songwriting.
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Lyrics
Talkin’ to myself and feelin’ old
Sometimes I’d like to quit
Nothin’ ever seems to fit
Hangin’ around
Nothin’ to do but frown
Rainy days and Mondays always get me down
What I’ve got they used to call the blues
Nothin’ is really wrong
Feelin’ like I don’t belong
Walkin’ around
Some kind of lonely clown
Rainy days and Mondays always get me down
Funny, but it seems I always wind up here with you
Nice to know somebody loves me
Funny, but it seems that it’s the only thing to do
Run and find the one who loves me (the one who loves me)
What I feel has come and gone before
No need to talk it out (talk it out)
We know what it’s all about
Hangin’ around (hangin’ around)
Nothin’ to do but frown
Rainy days and Mondays always get me down
Funny, but it seems that it’s the only thing to do (only thing to do)
Run and find the one who loves me (ooh)
What I feel has come and gone before
No need to talk it out (to talk it out)
We know what it’s all about
Hangin’ around (hangin’ around)
Nothin’ to do but frown
Rainy days and Mondays always get me down
Hangin’ around (hangin’ around)
Nothin’ to do but frown
Rainy days and Mondays always get
Me down