About the song
“Rainy Days and Mondays,” a melancholic yet deeply resonant ballad, stands as a poignant testament to the musical prowess of the Carpenters. Released on their eponymous third album, the song features evocative lyrics penned by Paul Williams and hauntingly beautiful music composed by Roger Nichols. It was Richard Carpenter who first recognized the potential of the song when he received a demo from Williams and Nichols. Captivated by its simplicity and emotional depth, he envisioned it as a perfect showcase for Karen Carpenter’s unparalleled vocal talent.
Recorded just weeks before Karen’s 21st birthday, the song’s arrangement was deliberately kept sparse by Richard, allowing Karen’s voice to take center stage amidst the gentle backdrop of piano, Wurlitzer electric piano, bass guitar, drums, harmonica, and tenor saxophone—a lineup masterfully performed by the Wrecking Crew.
Upon its release, “Rainy Days and Mondays” ascended to number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, making it one of the Carpenters’ most successful singles. Its seven-week stint in the Top 10 was a testament to its widespread appeal, although it narrowly missed the number 1 spot due to Carole King’s formidable chart-topping hits at the time. Notably, the song also secured the duo’s fourth number 1 position on the Adult Contemporary chart, underscoring its enduring popularity among listeners craving heartfelt melodies and relatable lyrics.
Despite its initial success in the United States, the song initially failed to chart in the United Kingdom until a reissue in 1993, where it belatedly garnered recognition, reaching number 63. Recognized for its impact and commercial success, “Rainy Days and Mondays” was certified Gold by the RIAA for selling over 500,000 copies in the United States alone.
As listeners immerse themselves in the poignant lyrics and Karen Carpenter’s emotive delivery, “Rainy Days and Mondays” remains a timeless anthem for those seeking solace in music during life’s more somber moments. Its enduring appeal lies not only in its musical composition but also in its ability to resonate deeply with audiences, transcending decades to touch hearts with its sincerity and vulnerability.
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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