Comparing Karen Carpenter's LIVE and STUDIO vocals just BLEW MY MIND!!!

[@TheNo1BandDad]

Karen Carpenter: probably the most perfect voice that has ever existed. We lost her way too soon.

[@Johnny.Fedora]

...along with Linda Ronstadt.

[@HolgerJakobs]

@@Johnny.Fedora ... and the ABBA girls. Listen to their latest album VOYAGE which they released after a 40-year break.

[@LisaGemini]

Yes, it's so sad that we knew nothing about anorexia back then. So sad.

[@christinet9641]

Amen to that

[@uiscepreston]

And think about this: she NEVER wanted to sing. She was, at heart, a drummer. And one of the most amazing drummers you will ever witness. Even the irascible monster Buddy Rich tipped his hat to her.

[@chrisp4170]

So now we’ve proved that Karen was even better than we thought. A vocal genius.

[@logan_e]

I think you won everything for all time with that comment!

[@mooreandless]

Her voice is velvet.

[@xyash]

Perfect and flawless are the only two words that describe her! Truly Angelic!

[@sharksport01]

We?

[@xyash]

@@sharksport01 We audiophiles😂

[@Don-n6o]

She passed 39 years ago. In all that time I still have not heard a clearer, more beautiful voice than hers. We were so lucky to have had her for the time that we did.

[@kathleenirish]

Ella

[@yardengali]

Eva Cassidy, Alison Krauss, Maelyn Jarmon and Zhou Shen

[@carolyncurry9615]

@@yardengali yes! Eva Cassidy!

[@yardengali]

@@carolyncurry9615 Definitely but have you heard the others? kzbin.info/www/bejne/h4XXXmpsbb1geJI

[@yardengali]

@@carolyncurry9615 kzbin.info/www/bejne/nXbYpIKlhdWee6c

[@ianmclennon3602]

It is truly nice to see someone of your age and talent appreciating the nuances of Karen's voice. As someone in radio at the height of her popularity, I was privileged to become a good friend of Karen's, and later, Richard. Knowing Karen was one of the greatest honors of my life.

[@grantlevy5733]

You were really lucky to have known her personally. A friend of mine was treating her for her anorexia. Sadly, she died of a heart attack brought on by the anorexia.

[@1959jbond]

What a great story! She’s my favorite female singer. I would’ve loved to see her performing live.

[@eekns]

Her voice is timeless. You can listen again and again and it seeks your soul in a deeper way. Kind of miraculous to have such a gift.

[@mismicmoy]

Her voice is timeless. I grew up in the 90s listening and trying to mimic her voice. She still astounds me with her talent.

[@cherylbarkley8471]

I loved her music and her voice. I was so happy to attend one of her outdoor concerts in LA around 1973-1974.

[@kurtgengenbach9082]

Years ago in the early 80’s, I was at A&M Records working on a soundtrack project. Our mix-down studio was right next to Richard’s studio. Karen had just passed away and her brother was back in the studio. When the double doors would swing open, I could hear Karen’s flawless voice right off the analog masters without reverb or echo, so it sounded like she was in that room. It was a wonderful, and at the same time heartbreaking, experience that I will never forget.

[@carolhesterberg7526]

Oh, that would have been so sad to hear that beautiful voice in the studio so soon after her death! I bet there wasn't a dry eye at A&M Studios on the days that Richard was working on her posthumous releases. Her voice never ceases to send chills down my spine.

[@davidjohnson1654]

I literally was brought to tears by the beauty of this memory you shared. Thank you. RIP, beautiful Karen.

[@bethannbritz7907]

Thank you for sharing. She was such an amazing talent.

[@BassByTheBay]

Amazing. Did you ever talk to Richard?

[@mirozen_]

I find myself in agreement with Paul McCartney's opinion of Karen Carpenter: "The best female voice in the world: melodic, tuneful and distinctive."

[@jeffclark7888]

John Lennon said that.

[@mirozen_]

@@jeffclark7888 Where did you hear that John Lennon said this? Per the following it was Paul McCartney. Joel Samburg (February 4, 2013). "Remembering Karen Carpenter, 30 Years Later". NPR. If you have a source that says otherwise I'd like to know it! Thanks

[@jeffclark7888]

@@mirozen_ he encountered Karen Carpenter at a restaurant I believe in New York and approached her and said something to that effect to her and it surprised her because she wasn’t aware that John Lennon even knew that she was alive!

[@Is..4110]

@@jeffclark7888 John Lennon did in fact pay her a compliment, but it wasn't the one stated in this thread...

[@mirozen_]

@@jeffclark7888 I'd be willing to bet that Paul McCartney did say this...but that John Lennon also said as much at the meeting you describe. Let's face it, she had a voice that I'm sure they both found incredible. By any chance do you recall the source that described that meeting between her and Lennon? It would be worth following up to credit his opinion on her as well! Thanks

[@kithale316]

As a trained singer for 40 years I can say that I have never heard another voice as pure, perfect and warm as Karen Carpenter had. She was a one off. I just wish that she had realised how wonderful she was and did not feel so physically plain. She was lovely.

[@aymanalsheikh9400]

Listen to Perry Como 😉

[@HolgerJakobs]

@@aymanalsheikh9400 ... or the ABBA ladies, esp. their latest album VOYAGE released after a 40-year break.

[@lisag18]

Mental health is so important. Anorexia was little understood then.

[@TheRagingPlatypus]

You're right about the warmth. There's a certain full warm richness that is hard to quantify.

[@Guppusmaximus]

@@TheRagingPlatypus In my experience, it's known as range. Karen had a dynamic range. Anita Baker is another amazing and powerful singer that had such a vast range that could compete with the best male singers.

[@TheRKae]

Her voice is legendary. All you need to hear is one word and you know who's singing.

[@HaleysTusk]

Karen was an angel, even when I got into Heavy Metal in my youth, I was never embarrassed to say I was a Carpenter's fan...plus she was an excellent drummer. She didn't deserve what happened to her, gone far too soon.

[@wobblyrampack9655]

Angel is exactly the word.

[@morbidmanmusic]

Some things transcend genres! She is easily one of them.

[@wirenutt57]

You might be interested to know that Hal Blaine of The Wrecking Crew is playing drums on this track.

[@kevinhodgson2990]

It was common for my heavy metal buddies to say "I hate pop music, but the Carpenters are cool". That voice could win anyone over.

[@thomasmalatesta7331]

Yep- Black Sabbath , Alice Cooper , Deep Purple & The Carpenters were in my album collection back in the 70's.

[@stevie4641]

Karen... I'm 65 and to this day can't hear her voice without tearing up. What a loss.

[@MrTPF1]

Same. The Carpenters were the sound track of my youth growing up in the 60's & 70's.

[@DebateDeliberate]

@@MrTPF1 And partly for me in the 80s. My mom had them playing all the time. And now I play them for my kids. Karen's voice is timeless.

[@roberteastwood6937]

2 years older with the same "problem"....

[@kellycoleman715]

Same here. I’m also 65.

[@edithcarter3554]

I agree 😞

[@Sasquatch64]

Karen Carpenter was one of those very rare voices that could touch your soul. She had such beautiful tone.

[@p.m-audio]

she was perfect

[@Sasquatch64]

@@p.m-audio My grandmother was the school secretary at Downey High and knew Richard and Karen. They are a big deal in the city of Downey.

[@vernonfrance2974]

@@p.m-audio Not at all. Her vibrato was too slow and slightly off key especially her low notes.

[@Sarahbuildsstepsequencers]

She and Richard were often discounted due to their squeaky clean image; innocent lyrics, wholesome musicality. So I really appreciate your spotlighting her and so accurately demonstrating her incredible voice. It’s tragic, she never knew she was enough. That she didn’t need to be any better or any different. Such a special lady. Thank you!

[@studiotodd]

That "squeaky clean image"...the only thing I could ever criticize the Carpenters for (and it probably wasn't their fault) was their styling. Whoever it was that suggested the granny dresses and wigs with ribbons for Karen should have been drummed out of the industry. Karen's voice was better suited to a more emo style (I know, emo wasn't a "thing" yet). She should have been in dark clothes--paints or short dresses--with straight hair, bangs that framed her face rather than cutting straight across her forehead, heavier eyeliner...just a more adult style. She vocals were far too complex and sophisticated to have been saddled with such a pedestrian "squeaky clean" look.

[@smrtnz5995]

@@studiotodd Richard’s girlfriend was the horrid hairdresser for the band. I imagine her influence was only because she was schtoopin him.

[@jeaniegrothause5824]

Well it was the 70s those dresses were in style...

[@donwilliams3078]

She had a voice perfectly suited to sing the blues and jazz.@@studiotodd

[@joejackson73]

​@@studiotoddYou can blame Their mother Agnes for Karen's wardrobe...at least at the beginning. I don't mean to hurt Richard but everybody knew that their mothers controlling nature was a part of Karen's eating disorder. Sad situation!

[@GregFalken]

In the early 80s, I worked at A&M Studios, where The Carpenters recorded. I heard stories about Karen's pitch being so accurate that when she was doubling her own vocals, there would be problems with phase cancellation. This is pretty much unheard of in studio singing.

[@wingsofpegasus]

I can believe it!

[@quicksite]

Wow, that's astonishing

[@AnneloesF]

Wow!

[@lydiabentley3413]

Totally agree with you Greg

[@sbdreamin]

i can totally see that from these wave forms. Thanks for sharing that.

[@TheLuckyjoenga]

I’m 53 and grew up listening to The Carpenters. Karen was proof angels do walk among us.

[@nikkimclay5474]

me too at 55

[@MsJia33]

She IS an angel and one of my spirit guides, in fact. My partner is a medium and she sent me a message through him. 💙🙏💙

[@Chillednfunked]

That’s a bit much 😂

[@madkap2428]

Funny you say that. Olivia Newton-John described Karen as one of her "Spirit Angels" that came to her at times. I wonder who's "Spirit Angel" Olivia is. 😢

[@starsearch1952]

@@madkap2428ironically karen and Olivia’s voices remind me of each others..

[@garbarek1078]

When I hear someone say Adele is probably the greatest singer ever, I roll my eyes; Karen is one of the best ever and miles ahead of Adele. Just different class.

[@mstrunn]

@garbarek1078 So true, :)

[@GFHanks]

Adele always sounds like she needs a glass of water, and needs to clear her throat. She's not even on the same planet as Karen Carpenter.

[@moonloversheila8238]

I can’t do with Adele’s voice at all! Karen’s voice was sublime.

[@GFHanks]

@@moonloversheila8238 Like rubbing velvet across your ear drums.

[@lydiabentley3413]

garbarek1078. Totally agree with your comment

[@ZoeMarlowe1]

I can't watch/listen to Karen Carpenter without crying. I was newly in USA when one of her big hits came out in 1971 (We've only just begun). I had all her records. She was a musical genius, as is her brother also as a composer/pianist, etc. The Carptenters are one of the most legendary duo bands ever...

[@nathanmoak1515]

amen brother. i have the recordings and i find it hard to listen to her since she left us.

[@marcathens2951]

Very sad indeed 😢

[@ronpfeiffer9157]

But we should be happy with the legacy of music she left us all forever

[@marcathens2951]

@@ronpfeiffer9157 indeed 🙏

[@lisafeck1537]

I am glad someone is displaying Karen Carpenter's incredible talent.

[@Lilah1754]

Yes, she deserves to be displayed, as her talent was in abundance. RIP Karen

[@craigwilliams6734]

In hindsight, she probably had the most beautiful & technically accurate voice ever in contemporary pop music

[@frankbolin8918]

Pure

[@irritatedkitty7301]

Concur

[@starsearch1952]

There’s Whitney too..

[@TruthSurge]

very unusual that the live version is even more pitch-accurate than the studio version. She was quite an amazing natural talent.

[@bruschmidt9943]

Amen brotha

[@brad42948]

Absolute pitch accuracy is never any great performer's goal. These subtle differences come about by virtue of the recording environment - performers can simply hear what they're doing far better in the studio, and this facilitates a level of creativity with expression and emotion that cannot be recreated live (due to the acoustic limitations of live / stage sound). You can hear the same differences in, say, Ella Fitzgerald's recordings. Karen was perhaps the greatest of all at capturing these emotions in her performances.

[@andhewonders]

Some producer thinking they know better in the studio

[@joeprimal2044]

In the studio the song was still new to her. By the time the live vocal was done she would have sung it many more times.

[@thetruthchannel349]

Back then the studio environment was an alien environment to most singers and performers. Makes perfect sense to me that her live recording would be more pitch accurate than her studio recordings. At the time a singer in the studio would have been more likely to go sharp if her headphone mix was too hot or to go flat if it was too low or if she was listening for pitch cues from the piano and it was buried. Makes perfect sense a studio recording back then would not be as good as a live performance.

[@carolhesterberg7526]

This is a voice that sends chills down my spine every time I hear it. I saw her twice in concert in the 1970s and will never forget the experience. She was and is still my favorite female vocalist! And always remember that she considered herself primarily a drummer! She was an outstanding one, too, having won a jazz competition at the Hollywood Bowl as part of her brother's jazz trio before they became famous. A consummate musician in every way, along with her genius brother Richard.

[@melissamarsh2219]

I grew up listening to The Carpenters. Karen’s voice is like a warm hug

[@pammyrogers]

As a teenager in the 70s I used to play her album over and over and over... never tired of her singing. Every wedding I went to had “We’ve Only Just Begun”. She was a fabulous drummer as well.

[@rhdtv2002]

My HS Graduation song..

[@sjp6341]

"We've Only Just Begun" was expanded from a banking and loan commercial jingle at the time.

[@kbrodie88]

I did the same. Played her over and over and loved her so much. One of my favorite all time singers!!

[@curtisvonallmen6294]

Makes me so sad that she left us way too soon

[@MrMustangMan]

i can't tell you how many record player needles i wore out.!!!!!

[@BrodyJoeandBriars]

I had the supreme pleasure to see The Carpenters in concert in September 1970 and I've been telling people for 52 years that Karen sounded better in person than in the recordings...Richard's piano performances that night were perfection, too! By far, the best concert of my life...I've always preferred studio versions over live performances in every other case, but The Carpenters were that one unforgettable exception!

[@kathypucker7489]

John Denver's Wild Life Concert is another example where the live version exceeds the studio version.

[@constancecampbell4610]

I saw them live, too. My first concert and will never forget it. I adored her and watching her play drums while singing was magical.

[@patrickreynolds9853]

You are truly blessed. Karen Carpenter has the purest voice in music I believe. Followed by Allison Kraus. Ms Kraus is a distant second though.

[@constancecampbell4610]

@@patrickreynolds9853 You are so right. On both counts.

[@patrickreynolds9853]

@@constancecampbell4610 thank you ma’am.

[@saleen367]

Love or hate their music, Karen's voice was impeccable. Beautiful person, incredible talent, amazing music and such an unfortunate tragedy.

[@larsolufsen]

What really impresses me is how soft her voice is. It is so unforced and pure. Absolutely beautiful voice.

[@KevSmithMusic]

I've heard stories that because her voice was so soft, she had to be much closer to the mic than a singer would usually be, and this literally gives the singer no place to hide when it comes to mistakes which makes the accuracy of her pitch all the more astonishing.

[@ScoutMad]

I heard "Yesterday Once More" playing on the car radio during a road trip when I was just a little guy in 1973. The image that came to mind was being wrapped in a warm blanket and held in my mother's arms. Karen was a brilliant musician with a perfect voice.

[@Bob-Bakley]

I had a similar thought. As if she were singing a lullaby!

[@armywife0075]

What a wonderful experience! Karen’s voice is totally like a warm blanket! She was amazing and I miss her!!

[@lydiabentley3413]

@@armywife0075 A great and accurate comment

[@itinerantpatriot1196]

When a song evokes such a lovely memory you know it was done correctly.

[@lydiabentley3413]

@@itinerantpatriot1196 totally agree

[@sugarbertie1143]

I don't think the appropriate words exist to complement Karen's vocal talents. She was without a doubt the purest, smoothest and most soulful female singer of the 20th century. I still can't accept that we lost her at such a young age. If she was still with us she would still be at the top of her game and would have outshone many of the top artistes since. She was an outstanding gift to music and has never been bettered. God bless her memory.

[@Guppusmaximus]

I agree but I'd say Anne Murray was right up there as well except that she isn't as well known.

[@Meezer]

The only lady who approaches her is Lisa Gerrard.

[@Meezer]

The only ladies who approach her are Eva Cassidy and Lisa Gerrard.

[@lydiabentley3413]

Angelina Jordan is truly special and I also loved Karen Carpenter‘s voice and she was very special too

[@ricbabel6548]

@@Guppusmaximus 🤣Except she is

[@BenVanHeel]

Karen Carpenter: Easily my top female vocalist of ALL TIME. You hear her voice and you just melt.

[@rickw4662]

As a kid in the 6th grade I was one of the kids chosen to sing back up on "Sing (sing a song"". Her singing on stage was real, during the kid part she moved the Mic down past each of us so all of our voices heard during the concert. Such a cool memory -- at the time they would go town to town have schools find kids with the right pitch for the back up kid parts.

[@ryanality]

What a wonderful experience & memory for you! I love reading all these comments about Karen. She’s heavenly.

[@MikeAndDawnGineseMusic]

That is very cool, I didn’t know that was part of her performance. You must of been in awe! 🎵💜🎵(Dawn)

[@jaggersalapayne9353]

Wow! What an experience u have...

[@jimmypinetwinchell2454]

You are truly an anointed human being having been in the presence of Divine Love... Thank you...Love from Texas...

[@TheDivayenta]

For some reason this made me cry.

[@sammy2840]

I’m trained musically. The first time I heard her in 1969 stopped me in my tracks! The most perfect voice I have ever heard!

[@bruschmidt9943]

You must know "Eve", sung beautifully in a minor key & "Ticket to Ride".

[@rudetuesday]

Karen Carpenter has one of purest vocals out there. Nearly everyone liked her voice immensely, no matter what their primary music preference was back in the day. Dionne Warwick, another fantastic vocalist, always speaks highly of Carpenter's voice. We're very lucky to have the music of both.

[@lsmoulton]

And Burt Bacharach's songs aren't the easiest to sing, Karen and Dionne managed it effortlessly.

[@lydiabentley3413]

Totally agree with your comment rude Tuesday

[@ttintagel]

And she didn't even want to be a singer! She wanted to stay behind the drum kit!

[@bruschmidt9943]

What was her BFF Olivia Newton-John's perspective? 😕 Seems she always bugged out on contributing ANY kind of supporting words on Karen. All the movies, books & Documentaries are missing her BFF (Best Friend Forever) Olivia!

[@rickpoock9721]

I was a closet fan of the Carpenters, couldn't let my hard rock buddies know. Oh well their loss. She was an Angel!

[@pjpredhomme7699]

You aren't the only one - but I never was afraid to tell anyone I loved the carpenters - I know they were not considered cool at some point but I did not care - incredible is incredible and Richards arrangements are probably equal to Karen's singing such a tragedy

[@jevinday]

They probably did the same thing 😂

[@gigantor62]

Ditto!

[@markburnham7512]

Same story with me. Glen Campbell as well. Feels liberating to come out.

[@Ainzleeriddell]

Coward! 😂

[@anniegoodridge7941]

her flat vibrato makes her sound just a little sleepy and it’s such a beautiful quality in her voice. when she hits the notes bang on the clarity in her voice causes her sound to ring. she was an unbelievable talent

[@linzertube]

It’s nice to hear someone appreciating and pointing out how wonderful was Karen Carpenter’s voice.

[@gaylaharmon6051]

I just want to tell Phil that I’m so impressed with your character. During times when it seems people love to take opportunity to run another person down, you consistently take the opposite road. I love how you delight in the talent of those you analyze. Thank you! Refreshing.

[@mikebowman8680]

Agreed. Pure perfection!

[@artsci2716]

Karen had a way of soothing the soul and I mean soothe! She made grown men cry and she made music into works of art! She had a voice that beats any voice in history!

[@gregbell3559]

Her song Merry Christmas darling gets the waterworks going for me

[@sunnyseacat6857]

Frank Sinatra, too.

[@2th31]

I don’t know a pitch from an itch. All I know is that Karen had one of the most hauntingly beautiful voicesI’ve ever heard. It was a tragedy to lose someone so amazing so young in her life.

[@charlesmcgehee3227]

I love your comment using the word Hauntingly.

[@DNA350ppm]

@@charlesmcgehee3227 A wonderful comment, for sure, we sure don't get such too often! Accurately personal! 🐬

[@Lilah1754]

Lovely words! There is a heartfelt tribute to Karen, by Petula Clark. She sings Karen’s song for the audience beautifully. It is on u tube. Petula & Karen were good friends. It is a very moving tribute to Karen, sung by a very talented Petula. Class act.

[@charlesmcgehee3227]

@@Lilah1754 Not surprising Petula and Karen were pals. The song Downtown sounds like a song that Karen could have done.

[@Lilah1754]

@@charlesmcgehee3227 Very True!

[@carlasammons5407]

In my humble opinion, Karen Carpenter had one of the most iconic and outstanding voices I’ve ever heard. Your analysis shows exactly why. Thank you so much Fil. Rest In Peace Karen. 💖🙏🏻

[@sandee3073]

Such an incredible talent. It’s like she just opened her mouth and this glorious sound came out. Clear, bell-like, rich, and honeyed. And you know it’s Karen the minute you hear her.

[@rick3747]

The craziest thing is that Karen felt that she was a drummer who sang.

[@shermantank7216]

I was watching an old youtube clip of a Carpenter's TV special where she demonstrated her percussion skills. She was an excellent drummer, an "A" grade so to speak. The trouble was an exceptional singer, one of the best ever in the world (1 out of a Billion).

[@ballhawk387]

She was indeed quite an adept drummer, with out of this world chops. Very jazzy, and obviously enjoyed it.

[@sillydogfarms2983]

She was an incredible drummer

[@markrigg6623]

Beats me why she thought that.....

[@paigewillow8768]

I saw Karen live in the late 70’s and it was so obvious then. Her voice was like no other. Crystal clear. Beautiful. Will never forget her.

[@David-ji7qh]

Miss Carpenter always had the reputation of being a "one take wonder". However, not only was her pitch astonishingly accurate, her diction was immaculate. Vowel placements are almost absolutely consistent from performance to performance, vanishing diphthongs are practically entirely absent, and consonants are perfectly placed - all every single time. If you have an FFT analyzer you can compare the overtone composition of individual vowels - though I haven't done this, I'm very sure it will be as amazing as the fundamental pitch comparisons. Vowel placements are a key element in fundamental pitch accuracy: perfectly colored vowels are far more likely to be pitch accurate than sloppily formed ones. Another singer with nearly perfect pitch placement was Ella Fitzgerald, who was also greatly helped by bang on vowel placement. Classical singers also work very hard at pitch and vowel placement, with varying success. Montserrat Caballé, Marilyn Horne, Jennifer Larmore are great examples of near perfection at these aspects of vocal technique. All of these singers also enjoyed reputations as highly repeatable performers - they do their thing perfectly, every time, never any surprises. One of the characteristics we value most as professional musicians.

[@InfoArtistJKatTheGoodInfoCafe]

We like surprises, too.

[@mauricioduron3193]

Superlative post!!!

[@PureMagma]

Dusty Springfield also...

[@robynnjasper3843]

Rosemary Clooney also sang pitch perfect notes.

[@joemachunda]

Oh I really agree about Ella Fitzgerald. Perfect voice

[@darrinlindsey]

I love this. I've always claimed that Karen is the greatest female vocalist ever.

[@briansd2772]

You are correct.

[@craigpaske9351]

I'll second that.

[@TheEricthefruitbat]

Absofreakinglutely!

[@markhodge7]

No argument

[@alexioverdo5225]

If i have to be objective,then i must admit i do agree.She could outshine as a soloist without needing anything more.Not even backing vocals.Just her own voice is more than enough.

[@ulphil08]

Perhaps the greatest female vocalist of all time. No other voice like hers.

[@diannelovejoy5514]

There is never a doubt who you are listening to when one of her songs comes on. Thanks for doing this Fil! 💖

[@alvinscott6627]

Karen is just so amazing She’s got a beautiful voice How are you Dianne??

[@mikelucey5035]

One note, you know.

[@nigelhaywood9753]

She hit the notes as if she was striking little bells, all spot on.

[@ghostl1124]

O ! Cheerio , cheerio !

[@deborahdoesscrap]

Watching Karen is always bitter sweet. Not being a musician, I can only say that her voice spoke to something in my soul and whether listening to her back then or now in my living room, her voice makes me want to cry. It is so moving. I recognize that Richard was a great composer, arranger and musician but my feelings about him get tied up in my feelings for how he treated Karen and undermined her esteem. I would still rather listen to the two of them than any pop singer today. I am somewhat forced to listen to todays pop music as my daughter hogs the radio when we are in the car and as soon as she is out, I switch to Classic Vinyl or other "old school" channels. The ache of nostalgia is almost painful when listening to her. So sad that she was taken from us much to young and I pray she is making wonderful music up there in heaven.

[@tr5947]

There something about her voice that was so touching, haunting, and pure. All these years later, there's no one I can think of who's voice has ever moved me in the way her's does. She was incredible.

[@timroden6617]

Her looks were not impressive but I could put on her records on a Friday night and forget about all the girls that turned me down for a date.

[@serpentines6356]

@@timroden6617 Ah, that's sweet. I thought she was rather nice looking.

[@debralee7046]

No wonder girls turn you down.

[@billielamier4706]

I don’t think it was Richard that did that… it was her parents, especially her mother. Her mother could never tell her she loved her, she would just say “Karen knows we love her.” But she could easily say I love you to Richard.

[@wintersbattleofbands1144]

Karen and Richard Carpenter were amazing. Only hardcore fans know what a technical innovator Richard was/is. He was really the first to do massive vocal overdubbing. Putting her up front on vocals (she's also the drummer) when their original vocalist left was pure genius. Karen's interpretation of "Superstar" was a tape rolling first take with lyrics on a napkin. She nailed it. That's the take used on the release. She was amazing.

[@carolhesterberg7526]

Thanks for giving Richard his due! I've heard many people discount his contribution to their collaborations when he was the musical "genius" behind it all...songwriting, arranging, producing, playing the keyboards, singing, etc. But as the "voice" of the group, Karen got all the glory....not that she didn't deserve it, but her brother was a very large part of their success. Together, they were unbeatable and I am so glad that their music has not faded into history. They will be played for years and years to come because the sound was so perfect!

[@dtulip1]

Never in a million years would I have said to myself "yep I'd love for someone to show me the wave forms of singers live and recorded to see if auto tune or not and then HOW or why that was done" and yet here I am LOVING these videos

[@michaelogden5958]

As others have said here... I was mainly into "harder" rock when I first heard The Carpenters in the early 70s. A couple of Carpenters songs were in rotation on the radio. I was astounded. I don't mean "hey, that's pretty good". I mean "I have never heard such a beautiful female voice - ever." Very few female artists (in my opinion) can rival Karen. Don't get me wrong - I spent years submerged in all kinds of rock. I've played in rock cover bands. Some 50 years later, I occasionally drag out a stack of Carpenters CDs and listen to them in some kind of near-religious awe. It's not some fond remembrance of my youth. It is just listening to the perfection of her voice. RIP, Karen.

[@QHarefield]

I was never into The Carpenters - until I heard that mind-blowing solo by Tony Peluso on "Goodbye to Love." He was, if you like, the 'gateway' into a full appreciation of their music.

[@michaelogden5958]

@@QHarefield That was quite something!

[@serpentines6356]

@@michaelogden5958 Sounds like it is a little bit of heaven, or paradise for you. 🙏.

[@chuckm4540]

For me, Karen Carpenter had one of the most beautiful voices in music. Roberta Flack is another incredible vocalist. Her version of "First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" is brilliant.

[@peterkinberger9741]

I agree !

[@prothoroe5817]

More from sentiment than any technical knowledge I still melt when I hear the Carpenters songs as well as the wonderful Roberta Flack. I was in high school and still dreaming of my first kiss.

[@WaxandWool77]

Agree!!!!

[@Moluccan56]

Ohhh, yeaaah😍

[@spinozareader]

Yes! And may I add Gladys Knight to the line-up? :)

[@jaycollins9244]

I told my sister 50 years ago I thought Karen was the best female singer on the planet. She thought I was crazy. I wasn't !!!

[@jozjonlin3170]

A cousin of mine lived by the Carpenter's when they were first starting out. Apparently, they would practice in their garage with the door often open and all the neighborhood kids would come by for the show. My cousin said they were always very nice people. They certainly had some classic music.

[@TorToroPorco]

I especially loved how Karen would sing the lower notes. When she did it would always tug at my heart strings. What an angel. It’s brilliant how Fil interspersed the live and studio vocals, just stunning to see the waveforms.

[@JRobbySh]

On a bus trip to England, Ireland, and Scotland. The bus constantly plays a carpenter’s tape. During several days drive, we never got enough of it.

[@mtp4430]

Tor ToroPorco She was so sultry when she hit those lower notes. I absolutely loved her singing.

[@rangerannie5636]

"The money's in the basement"

[@kingskidgirl2]

I agree! Fantastic. There's a version of 'Ave Maria' that Karen sings on one their Christmas albums. She hits a low note toward the very end of the song that has the power to bring me to tears nearly every time; it's just beautiful.

[@mtp4430]

@@kingskidgirl2 It has the same effect on me. She had the ability to touch all of us. I absolutely loved Karen's voice. And to think, she was so talented that singing was an afterthought to her because she was an excellent drummer who reluctantly started singing.

[@davidneraas750]

Karen carpenter was and is one of the best singers the world has ever seen she has one of those rare quality voices that makes you feel like she is singing to you when you listen to the songs:).

[@lydiabentley3413]

I agree with your comment

[@Wargunsfan]

Karen had an ability to modulate her voice in numerous ways to hit notes that really connected with the listener. She could sing in a husky voice that sounded so intimate and romantic or she might soften her voice in a way that sounded very sweet and innocent. Being a contralto she could hit low notes with a quality that was unique to her. Truly a one of a kind voice and presentation.

[@tracyzimmerman7912]

I was thinking...she doesn't even need a backing. She is just that good. She has always had the sweetest voice...such an innocent quality to it. The video was simply beautiful. It was such a joy to see you get so excited over just her voice.

[@barbaradownie3265]

SO TRUE

[@toddubow2599]

Maybe not backing but Richard's arrangement was the key to her stardom.

[@johnbutler4631]

I've loved Karen's voice for nearly 40 years, but her voice isolated from the background vocals and accompaniments wowed me once again! Simply amazing! And I loved how you were grinning when you first played her live recording.

[@johndorch2333]

They both sang in Frank Poolers choir program at Long Beach State in the mid and late 60's

[@rickrickard2788]

One of the purest vocalists ever. And yes, she could keep a mean beat.

[@willemfeather2655]

On listening closely, hear that Karen's vibrato matched the inner rhythm of each song.

[@sretePtraB]

Her voice is like a warm blanket.

[@timsullivan4687]

This woman's voice put everyone else..then and now...to shame...nobody can compare to the clarity and power that she had

[@justafreethinker]

Greatest Female Vocal Artist of ALL TIME. I have said it before and will say it until I am no longer on this state of existence. If there are angels then when they sing they sound like Karen Carpenter. Period. Thanks for doing this Fil. RIP to a real angel.

[@MisterHughes]

Certainly the purest and most naturally melodic voice I've known in my 50 years.

[@kurtisdurkop7038]

Karen did most of her studio tapings in one take. Usually, after seeing the song once, or reading the song off a napkin. She was amazing. “One take wonder”.

[@xaj1543]

I once read a Karen Carpenter biography and they told how when she and Richard started they were just an instrumental group and they were told they needed a singer. They knew Karen could sing a bit and tried recording her but she always tried to sing in a higher key. Richard suggested they try and play in a lower key and it resulted in him and the producer just staring at each other in amazement at what came out. According to Richard it was one of those, aha moments. She had an incredible lower register, which is where most female singers struggle.

[@DS40764]

Yes, they have an amazing story

[@DaedalusYoung]

I quite like Top Of The World, she demonstrates her range very well in that song.

[@mdmejia67]

I'm just curious if the biography says who influenced Karen as a singer?

[@eggy1962]

@@mdmejia67 i believe she had good tuition near home, i dont know what type of college it was tho

[@221b-Maker-Street]

@@eggy1962 I assumed @mdmejia67 was asking about other musicians - who may have influenced her, no? Rather than who taught her to sing...

[@DGWpg]

Karen had such a gorgeous warm, female voice. I can't think of a more beautiful vocal amongst all singers.

[@lisaannbarriner9633]

She was, musically, one of the most talented people. There will never be another vocalist like her. RIP, sweet girl.

[@rick3747]

I come back again and again to rewatch Fil's superb analysis of Karen's voice. It is easily, one of my top three videos ever on YT. I failed to mention in my post 11 months ago that at age 57, I have felt for decades that if I could pick just one artist, one group that defined the 1970s, it is Carpenters. It truly was an awesome decade to grow up in. Thank you Fil. RIP Karen❤

[@2011joser]

Finally a visualization of what my ears have been telling me for years. Since I was a kid I have been drawn to her singing. For years it has been a delight to play her songs. What we lost when she passed away so young.

[@rnkim2564]

I've followed vocalists my entire life including opera, blues, r&b, rock etc. Karen's voice was so pure, bright, clear and rings like some kind a magical crystal bell or silver rain over a rainbow in the sun- if it had such a sound 🤣... and a song stylist, full of emotion, with incredible phrasing and timing of all those factors... she just lives and breathes in those songs, light and airy and then deep and emotional but not forced, ever... what an amazing gift her voice was. and the familial similarity with Richard's voice was just magical- even in their more silly dated pop songs I close my eyes and marvel at both those voices but especially hers. the voices of today that rely on autotune? I can barely stand to listen to once. it's very apparent to me, and very uninteresting. when I'm listening to a singer I want to hear their God given talent and the experienced hard work of their HUMANITY which is unlike every other voice in the world. as a reminder, our creator made all of us that way, we are all special and created different from any other person in the world, you are special and there is no one like you

[@pbohearn]

Beautiful! Yes we are all a choir for the universe; we all have our own individual voices, and we all together can sing the most beautiful songs of praise. I love music and I love to sing. but in high school, the drama Director never cast me in a singing role which made me believe that I didn’t have a good voice. Flash forward 40 years later, and I’m attending my first voice class at a community college, and performed live and solo in front of an audience by the end of the semester. taking the class was the best thing I could do for adjusting to retirement. it brought me a lot of joy, and I continued with it for two more years, both with choir and chorus as well as individual voice. I found my voice, and I learned that Its pretty good. I’ll never be Karen Carpenter, but when people come together cooperatively, invest time and diligence rehearsing songs, then perform live in front of others, is one of the most beautiful, creative and spiritually uplifting experiences on both sides of the stage. It is truly a gift and Karen Carpenter certainly had an exceptional gift that we all continue to appreciate. It also reminds us of the power that we actually have when we use our voice: the words that we say, The tunes that we hum, and how they impact others. A very depressed person can walk into a Broadway musical and by the end of it may have decided that life might be worth living & that their mood has improved just a little bit.when there’s so much animosity and aggressive yelling in the world, it’s all of our responsibility to counteract that negative energy with something that is creative, loving and hopeful.

[@tupelohoney622]

@@pbohearn Beautifully expressed. There is something about people of different backgrounds, abilities, motivations coming together to produce something only humans can provide; individuality that melds with others to produce magic. I am very blessed; I was born in the very last years considered Boomers. As the surprise child of then considered older parents from the Greatest Generation and exposed to the magic of Big Band Swing, grandparents that dated in the 1920's and introduced me to early blues legends along with teaching me to charleston, dressed in fringed beaded dresses. My two oldest sisters were 1950's teenie boppers with our large hardwood floor living room open for sock hop dances after football games and the sister next to me but 9 years older, definitely a 60's hippie. I was blessed to be a teen of the 70's when some legendary groups were in their prime. My house was always filled with music and I was blessed to be introduced to eras from the 1920's forward by those that lived those years. When having a blaa day I can slip on a Glenn Miller LP and my blues float away with the magic of instruments blending together as only humans can produce, never to be replaced by AI. Thanks for letting me ramble and I'm so thankful you found your voice and share your gift with others.

[@NKBobcat]

I get sad when I think about how we lost her so young. Her voice is unparalleled.

[@moonbeanification]

Karen had the most naturally beautiful voice ever ... so pure ♥♥♥

[@t18amgr]

Arguably the finest female vocalist ever recorded. Bless.

[@jimfrisby3623]

Unarguably

[@angelarasmussen1800]

💯% Karen is the voice I always wish I could sing like over ANY and ALL other voices. It's perfect and there's something emotional that draws you in.... Both a cry and a smile. She's amazing!

[@souljamom1]

Karen always brings tears to my eyes when I listen to her. The voice of an Angel that will never be duplicated. She left us too soon but she left behind her music to be enjoyed for generations.

[@monicaroberts4904]

I have always loved her voice. I knew she was one in a million. There will never be another Karen Carpenter.

[@jrg4313]

I still love Karen Carpenter's voice....so pure, clear, real. She didn't need to do vocal gymnastics like so many do today. She was a true vocalist.

[@PorcelainLeigh]

Richard knew what he was doing when he assigned keys for his sister to sing in. It's what made Karen and her brother's sound so magical. A brilliant producer as well as a musician. Very rarely does a pop artist make it big as a female, in the alto range. They're mostly mezzo soprano. In a world full of vocal gymnastics, via Beyonce, Mariah, and the Christina's? Karen sang with simplicity, yet can make you cry tears. Tone and sincerity, will automatically do that. ❤ I found this, amazingly restored. kzbin.info/www/bejne/pmavcqRumLmVl9E Mixed so well, you'd think she's singing now.

[@gregsayles9253]

Well spoken!--& well sung by Karen!

[@dcmc7383]

She was always my hero because she was an amazing alto. I was born into a family of mezzos and sopranos...pretty good ones. I was an alto and could even drop into the contralto range and was sort of pushed into the background as we often are. I thought the simplicity, emotion, and consistency that Karen brought to her music was always something I aspired to reach. P.S. Congrats on 220K subscribers, Fil! Rock!

[@anneteller3128]

I think the alto range was perfect because we could sing along to the radio and actually hit the notes, certainly not a perfect as Karen. Her voice was like warm melted chocolate.

[@joncampos5551]

He couldn’t sing worth a damn. He would’ve flopped without her.

[@PorcelainLeigh]

@@joncampos5551 The backing harmonies prove you wrong. And they absolutely needed each other to make it.

[@cindypowers4993]

Your waveform comparisons of studio vs. live is where I think the term "seeing is believing" came from! Stunning. Karen had the voice of an angel. Thank you Fil, I so enjoyed this! 🎵🎶✌️

[@drewpall2598]

Cindy you and Karen get a thumbs up 👍👍

[@cindypowers4993]

@@drewpall2598 Oh Drew, you just made me laugh so hard I couldn't stop!! If only I could sing like Karen, my life would be completely different! But alas, there will never be another angelic voice like her....🎶🎵

[@cindypowers4993]

@@drewpall2598 And you get a thumbs up for making my day. We had our first major snow in New England today, shoveling, and shoveling ❄️

[@drewpall2598]

@@cindypowers4993Glad my comment gave you a chuckle 😂 your comments always get a thumbs up by me. 😊 parts of the Northwest saw flooding a few streets where I'm at were closed for safety reason 🌧🌫

[@cindypowers4993]

@@drewpall2598 Please keep safe! 💙

[@iankirk9097]

Karen is my favourite vocalist/singer and the Carpenters ballads are timeless. Close to You, We've only just Begun, For all we Know, Superstar, Sing, Solitair, Rainy days and Mondays, This Masquerade... beautiful!!

[@jameshowland7393]

I've been listening to the Carpenters since the early 70's. The one song that almost always makes me sigh and sometimes cry is "Solitaire". It's not a personal thing, it's just hearing her voice and how she sings it. Such power and emotion. I am stunned every tome I hear it.

[@YvaJStoryTime]

I'm 51 years old, and Karen Carpenter was my idol in singing. If I could sing 1% as well as she could I would feel completely blessed. She was amazing, and taken from us far too soon.

[@andysmith1996]

2:05 I love the way he breaks into a smile when she's singing, showing how much he appreciates her talent.

[@stuartcarden1371]

Blimey! Look at that. She was a wonderful talent to hear, but seeing her consistency is wonderful. So often the "naff" bands and singers of their era stand the test of time better than the "cool" bands. The Carpenters certainly fit that theme. Abba, Queen etc. All ended up getting the credit they deserved.

[@RenitaWellmanPhD]

Herb Alpert (producer, I believe) said, "She didn't know how good she was." Well, now, thanks to these wave forms, we know! Thanks! These are wonderful presentations!

[@Thatgirl1965]

Karen Carpenter's voice takes me back to my childhood - simpler times - growing up in the 70's. Thank you for sharing this!

[@chriswoods662]

ya,big time

[@bradhuskers]

Her voice is otherworldly. The purest tone. It's magical.

[@Tony-5000]

Any and every time I hear Karen's voice, even to this day, I stop and listen. Her's is the most soothing voice I've ever heard. ❤️ Her. Miss her😥

[@kevinwells4888]

Her voice touches the soul.

[@Prismatic_Truth]

I've never heard any voice that could rival the warmth of Karen Carpenter's. Anne Murray has a very similar timbre, but still doesn't have that incredible warmth. Karen's voice is the definition of mellifluous.

[@annwrog]

She had a unique gift. Her voice was one-of-a-kind and will never be replicated.

[@annwrog]

Love to listen to her and never get tired of hearing her sing

[@theprousteffect9717]

You just said the same thing three different ways 😂

[@bigwig594]

Karen was the most underrated singer of her time. Dismissed by many as bubblegum pop. I challenged my friends to sing 3 of Karen’s songs in a row. No go. Throats aching.

[@jeffsuter344]

I always loved her voice, this analysis blew me away and surprised me. She was even better than I thought.

[@212smoothbttm]

Fascinating analysis. Truly this is one of the finest tributes to Karen, authenticating her vocal prowess

[@dagmar.6954]

Karen was one of a kind. There will never be another like her. She had such a pure calming voice. And she was a terrific drummer. That was her passion even more than singing. Sadly we lost her so young. Thankfully we have her legacy left in her music.

[@marypthompson6349]

Her voice gives me chills. She's just amazingly talented!

[@mstrunn]

@Mary P Thompson Greatest Female singer ever, and she does not get the credit she so deserves.

[@iAxianguy]

Those days singer can really sing without auto tune. 🙂👏👍She was awesome! She is still missed.

[@kevinharrison2169]

Karen had an absolutely beautiful voice, and an incredible vocal range. Such a special lady.

[@lelleithmurray235]

Thanks so much Fil for bringing Karen Carpenter back in to the spotlight again. She had a beautiful velvet voice. Her talent is missed.

[@4amazinggrace]

Her version of "Superstar" brings tears. Richard expertly wrote to highlight her unique range. Gone too soon and no one has rivaled her talent. Fascinating comparison.

[@paulpinball9952]

Give "Bless the Beasts and Children" a spin. Not a dry eye in the house!

[@deirdre108]

You mean Richard ARRANGED "Superstar"? Leon Russell wrote the song, along with Bonnie Bramlett of Delaney and Bonnie. She was another great singer, albeit a different style than KC.

[@tamiz8895]

I just saw the clip of her on The Tonight Show from many, many years ago. Wow was she amazing and she didn’t have backup dancers or raunchy moves, just pure talent. Gone too soon ❤️