Written by: Burt Bacharach & Hal David
Released: 1970
US Charts: #1 (4 weeks)
UK Charts: #6
Other Charts: #1 (Canada)
Eternally beautiful, forever memorable, incredibly sweet are just some of the many adjectives that could be used to describe this unforgettable classic song. The Carpenters’ version of the song is by far the most well-known one, and easily the best one recorded. The arrangement by genius producer Richard Carpenter mixed with the marvelous angel-like voice of Karen Carpenter makes “Close To You” one of the greatest and most memorable ballads of all time.
It’s worth pointing out that the song as well as the Carpenters themselves were not considered fashionable or hip in the early 1970′s. The early 70s were characterized by psychedelic rock, early forms of punk and the anti-establishment movements. On the other hand, the Carpenters had a squeaky clean, all around American image with US President Richard Nixon endorsing them as how the American youth should be like.
“Close To You” had been written in the early 60s and had been recorded by Richard Chamberlain and Dionne Warwick but the Carpenters recorded their own version and released in 1970. It consequently became their first hit and most well-known song. It remained at #1 in the US for 4 straight weeks while also achieving a similar level of success in other countries.
Despite the overall excellence of the song, it is Karen Carpenter’s voice that stands out and make the song the beautiful song it is known for today. I cannot think of any other singer that has a voice similar to Karen’s. She indeed had a unique voice, which we may never hear again. We can only remain content that her magical voice was recorded so that we can continue to enjoy the beauty of Carpenters’ music. I sincerely hope you fall in love with this song like I did!
Lyrics can be accessed here.
Chords can be accessed here.
Feel free to comment on this song and/or my review below.
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{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }
Karen’s voice is perfect! I love her.