The Carpenters' Story: Only Yesterday

2007 documentary about brother and sister duo the Carpenters, one of the biggest-selling pop acts of the 1970s, but one with a destructive and complex secret that ended in tragedy with Karen Carpenter's untimely death at 32. Featuring behind-the-scenes footage and interviews with Richard Carpenter, family and friends.
No copyright infringement intended. All materials used are the property of their respective owners.
Original Source: • Video

[@code-52]

Richard will probably never see my comment. But if he does, I want him to know this. Karen saved me. I suffered from anorexia. When Karen died, I realized I had to make a change. Now, I'm a nice 62 year old for mamaw.

[@theodoreritola7641]

They sold mire records then MOST 80s hair bands

[@JustinaDatta]

Richard told Karen she was FAT.

[@xbrandi12345x]

Holy crap, I just made a comment just like this! She saved me too.

[@russellfillis6864]

I hope rich calls you and more cause I understand as a fan. Love❤❤

[@russellfillis6864]

Rich you have work to do ...o...old man ; we all love you Rich. ❤❤❤

[@DeanStephen]

Even after all this time, the sound of Karen’s voice can bring me to tears.

[@barbarabangert6594]

Me too

[@jooei2810]

Every time she brings me to tears.

[@flob54]

Same here.

[@shaneross7428]

Me too.

[@mikebel74]

Ditto.

[@jhavajoe3792]

I'm 72 yrs. old, played in a rock band in the 70's, listened to all kinds of music, but never liked the "square music" of the "Carpenters. After seeing this video, I realize how ignorant I was. I'll never hear them the same way again. And for Richard and Karen, they were cooler and much more talented than so many I admired. Real people with sincerity in their souls. RIP Karen.

[@bloodaonadeline8346]

I was the same way for a long time. so was really into punk rock and Metal. It took me a while to realize how difficult it is to construct pop ballads and songs like the carpenters and other bands I considered lame.5

[@xavierminchello8431]

I knew the Carpenters were it back in 1970

[@zigman8550]

No matter what genre of music you listen to. The Carpenters talent level cannot be denied.

[@molkpolk]

​@@xavierminchello8431😊

[@ErikaMaeTobias395]

I agree the music is rnb

[@enough-said973]

One of the best, if not the best female singers this century 🇬🇧

[@gz9520]

She died before this century began.

[@enough-said973]

Well that ever lived 🇬🇧

[@gz9520]

@@enough-said973 Okay, I can agree with that.

[@joecurmaci5880]

I'm 62 years old and I I am tough as nails but when I hear her songs today brings you back to a Time a very good time and it's hard to control your emotions and it brings tears to your eyes and you wish you could just go back to a beautiful time growing up

[@ceasarandrepont1243]

Sir, that happens to all of us. Let me make you laugh, I have albums from the Carpenters, and especially reel to reels. I am 50 years of age. So, I remember very little, but regardless, I am glad to have come from a generation that also know the Carpenters.

[@wtfnewz4085]

I'm 41 and it effects me the same way. 🥲

[@joecurmaci5880]

@@wtfnewz4085 especially in this modern on the edge of what could be world war III take me back Mr wizard

[@paule.9638]

thank you chatgpt for your emotional and heartfelt comment:

[@BolsaChicaRadio]

JOE: I too am 62 years old this year. I had ALOT of highs in the radio broadcast & music production industry and a heck of ALOT of lows. I can say without any doubt, the highs & lows that both Karen & Rich experienced was way beyond unbelievable. Yet they prevailed in their music recording ambitions, however their lives...well...much like our own; complicated and at times, troubled. Today, Karen is free from such trouble. BolsaChicaRadio.

[@bluebear7061]

When Karen died the angels said HERE COMES OUR LEAD SINGER !!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@MarioEpstein]

*LEAD SISTER!!!

[@yvonnestaley3564]

Sorry she's not singing with the Angels she's asleep unconscious doesn't know anything....

[@Timoteo3858]

@Yvonne just because you know a thing, be Compassionate with others hopes and dreams. Let your self-confidence be enough for your personal benefit. Respectfully.. m

[@dharter100]

@@Timoteo3858 the same could be said to everyone who commented. The truth is her parents neglected to seek treatment for her. She needed help and everyone around her failed her.

[@bryceharper446]

Love her voice

[@ruthhaywood3473]

Not many people r born with this kinda talent. The lord had his hand on the carpenters. Rest well Karen

[@lyndakearney1644]

She was so gifted. Nobody has a voice like her. Her singing voice was so effortlessly and loved 😍

[@charlenerathgeb8217]

Agreed!

[@bigteep]

Her voice was like therapy

[@bryan9029]

@@charlenerathgeb8217 oh well we all have to go sometime

[@bryan9029]

@@bigteep if you think she had a good voice perhaps you should be in therapy

[@a.dannyjack]

kihkhgkhgu

[@allenjones3130]

Thank you, Richard, for keeping your late sister Karen's memory and legacy alive!

[@ludabam241]

17:36 I am a 28 year old man living in 2023 and I still shed tears in only the first few moments of this song. Thank you Richard and Karen. Rest in Peace Karen Carpenter.

[@jesuslovesbass3944]

See, that's one of those strange things about her voice that is so hard to describe. The song you're referring to is "We've Only Just Begun", and yes, it's a mellow song, but it's a happy song, a song of new beginnings and hope and promise; yet something about the quality of Karen's voice elicits tears to well up in your eyes. What is it about her voice that can do that? How do you describe that quality, that feeling her voice causes to rise in up inside of you that makes you just want to have a good, soul-cleansing cry even when she's singing a happy song? She's the only vocalist that's ever had that effect on me, and I know now, I'm not the only one. There's just something, I don't know, "motherly", perhaps? about her voice...warm, soft, reassuring, comforting, all those things? Just very hard to pin it down.

[@yuliyaAST]

​@@jesuslovesbass3944 the "secret" of the voice was probably drugs she used to take.

[@carolsmith1522]

3:33 ​@@jesuslovesbass3944

[@deirdreyearwood3383]

Karen had a voice that has remained unique to this day (24/02/23). Karen has now been dead longer than she lived, but she will be remembered forever because her voice is timeless. May she continue to rest peacefully ❤️

[@kennyhuskisson2684]

Unmatched to this day in my book!👍✌️

[@MICKEYISLOWD]

Great post. Karen is out there amongst the Stars. Forever like diamonds. Missed forever but her soul and music is eternal🌠❤

[@stevenburger7158]

FREAKY FACT: KAREN CARPENTER (CARPENTERS) 40th ANNIVERSARY OF HER PASSING AWAY FEB. 4, 1983 > WAS JUST '4 DAYS' FROM BURT BACHARACH PASSING FEB. 8, 2023! REMEMBER > IT WAS BURT'S SONG "CLOSE TO YOU" THAT *LAUNCHED* THE 'CARPENTERS' METEORIC CAREER (1st Song/Mega Hit) & MANY MORE FOLLOWED JUST LIKE THAT > 1 SONG RELEASES = ANOTHER HIT!!

[@Swonder1972]

Her frequencies literally equalized a microphone. She would project out of the mix with that warm silky alto. The other factor was the duets specialized harmonies which are some of the best on vinyl, period...

[@jamescoleakaericunderwood2503]

I remember being on my bicycle in Downey and them driving by in their Carpenters Van Richard was always driving and Karen always waved at me with a great big smile! They must have known someone in my neighborhood because they lived across town! From the time I was 6-16 year's old ...I can picture it like it was yesterday... but it was a long time ago! 🙋 Eric Underwood Class of 81 Downey High school CA ✌️❤️🇺🇸🛐🗽

[@paigedemeyer7265]

Karen was well trained in Jazz drumming technique. She was a kick ass drummer and never gets enough credit for it. I'll bet she could play fast thrash metal music on drums if she wanted to. It's so sad she died so young. RIP Karen. You are still loved and missed today.💔😞😢♀️

[@peterchios9637]

Absolutely correct great comment. (SHINE ON 💎) 🎼☮️👊

[@troyallen8223]

I never knew that is just so amazing,.. And to think of it wasn't for someone documenting this I would have never known

[@Mostopinionatedmanofalltime]

She was an awesome drummer.😊

[@5rings16]

@@Mostopinionatedmanofalltime not

[@drewdoneit5578]

YES !! Kàren was an "Awesome" Drummer !! Hello from Washington DC & Baltimore

[@rider1956a]

I am a 66 year old man and still cry when I hear those songs.

[@user-sg6nx7wx1u]

Wuss lol

[@richardsmith9609]

I am a 68 year old man and I just watched this video. I AM SITTING HERE CRYING!!!

[@nigelbence9087]

dear Richard you are not one xx her voice is uplifting ❤ too kind regards liz xxx

[@nigelbence9087]

I meant you are not alone xx

[@dantaylor333]

Richard and Karen complimented each other perfectly, absolute magic

[@jesuslovesbass3944]

Never heard a voice with such warmth to it. The best way I can describe her voice is, hot chocolate and a warm blanket in front of a cozy fireplace, on a cold, winter night. It was just so inviting; it was a voice that had arms that wrapped around you and held you tenderly as you drifted off to a deep sleep. You can't listen to her voice, especially when in her lower register, and not feel it touching you heart, just so comforting and warm. How so very sad she left us so soon.

[@donnaedelen1199]

She was a tri-alto, which I have read is very rare

[@mikebel74]

Oh, what a beautiful comment. I feel the same way, and couldn’t have said it better than you did. Thank you.

[@stellakowalski1]

There will never be another voice like Karen Carpenter’s. NEVER. Miss you Karen & wish you were still here with us💔

[@ukyo2010]

Imagine these new kids competing for a Grammy against S&G and the Beatles. That must have been a surreal moment for those kids at the time.

[@overcomerbtbojesus]

You can tell when they went up on stage to get the award how overwhelmed and giddy they are as the new kids on the block - you described what they felt perfectly

[@robertrachels1870]

Karen looks so bummed out. She's slouching in her seat knowing who they were up against and you can just tell she's hating it as she believes they haven't even got a chance to win against these other incredibly talented artists,.. but then THEY WON! and she shot up out of her seat and was just a giddy kid! I loved seeing her transform like that in that instant! 🎉😂🎉

[@ramonpunsalang3397]

Beating out "Bridge over Troubled Water" and "Let it Be", two monster classics, to win the Grammy...what a fantastic achievement! We can only imagine wistfully what great music would never be performed when Karen passed... the day the music died for all their fans.

[@dannyjones3840]

Every time I watch her sing, i wish I could go back in time, to be at her side through life, to help and protect her. She was such a beautiful person

[@darrelllake3023]

Agreed

[@jesuslovesbass3944]

Yes, she does stir those feelings, especially since we know how her life ended, we wish we could go back and get to her and change the path that led to her death. I feel the same about some others as well. I wish I could go back and stop SRV from getting on that plane, and the same for the Lynyrd Skynyrd Band, and John Denver and Jim Croce, and several others as well. So many left us with still so much left to offer; it's heartbreaking.

[@stevenburger7158]

FREAKY FACT: KAREN CARPENTER (CARPENTERS) 40th ANNIVERSARY OF HER PASSING AWAY FEB. 4, 1983 > WAS JUST '4 DAYS' FROM BURT BACHARACH PASSING FEB. 8, 2023! REMEMBER > IT WAS BURT'S SONG "CLOSE TO YOU" THAT *LAUNCHED* THE 'CARPENTERS' METEORIC CAREER (1st Song/Mega Hit) & MANY MORE FOLLOWED JUST LIKE THAT > 1 SONG RELEASES = ANOTHER HIT!!

[@l.a.newkirk7075]

❤

[@libbysdad19]

What a sad story. She had the voice of an angel. The Carpenters were, to me, one of the best musical experiences of my lifetime.

[@barbarashirey8672]

- .💔' 'r(

[@nigelbence9087]

so agree

[@bobbipson8906]

She was powerful and rich. No one could have done anything short of having her committed to combat this. Kind of like Kanye right now. He'll have to hit bottom and look around and figure it out himself before he can get better. No one can do anything about it. She was one of the great voices of that generation.

[@niliradanad]

She was, absolutely, one of my favorites. She and Patsy Cline were who I listened to most in my young years. Might I add I was born in March of '69, so I stress young years. It broke my heart when they died, and I am sure I'll cry again by the time I finish watching this.

[@mrmultimediaman]

Ditto

[@ScammerStopper]

I met Richard & Karen in 1975 when they did a Concert in Omaha, Nebraska in August, 1975 as I worked backstage. Even though they had so much fame, they treated me with kindness, courtesy, and friendship and to this day, it touches my heart. I am so grateful to Richard for keeping their music and story alive. She had the voice of an angel and resonates beauty and love to this day. I just realized today as I was watching this video that this was the 40th anniversary of her leaving us. No one will ever be as wonderful a performer than she. Richard, I love listening to all your music. Those arrangements were spectacular !!

[@anddontcallmeshirley-]

No you didn't JFC lololol jfc 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@ScammerStopper]

@@anddontcallmeshirley- Yeah, I truly did have that honor. Richard would not remember me after all these years, but I certainly remember that few minutes of time.

[@temureviewer33]

You lucky duck to have met the best drummer of all time and the most velvet voice ​@@ScammerStopper

[@ErikaMaeTobias395]

Wow

[@timwalsh8973]

Agree only just begun

[@wmr07]

Fifty years ago, I was a 13 year-old kid. Karen was a huge part of the soundtrack of my life also. This woman had talent straight from God. Listen to acapella versions of her songs. They're breathtaking. She died about 10 years later. I remember being just stunned by the news. Something was lost that could never be replaced.

[@bil8647]

Wow! Same for me. Watching the Carpenter's specials was a family event. I was crestfallen at the news of her passing. I taught myself "Rainy Days and Mondays" on the piano as a kid. Now when I play and sing that song it has such a different meaning and feeling. Such a profound loss.

[@stevenburger7158]

FREAKY FACT: KAREN CARPENTER (CARPENTERS) 40th ANNIVERSARY OF HER PASSING AWAY FEB. 4, 1983 > WAS JUST '4 DAYS' FROM BURT BACHARACH PASSING FEB. 8, 2023! REMEMBER > IT WAS BURT'S SONG "CLOSE TO YOU" THAT *LAUNCHED* THE 'CARPENTERS' METEORIC CAREER (1st Song/Mega Hit) & MANY MORE FOLLOWED JUST LIKE THAT > 1 SONG RELEASES = ANOTHER HIT!!

[@unlistedandtwisted]

Yes... tragic.

[@wmr07]

@@bil8647 coincidentally, Rainy Days and Mondays was always my favorite, thanks.

[@keithbannister9271]

​@@wmr07 It was such a moving song, it was like my life was being sung on the radio. Karen sang with so much emotion. Gosh, I miss her so much!!! 😢😢😢😢😢

[@lauriedelorme6733]

Don’t ever forget Karen had a lot of Happy. Her music, Her brother, Her forever fans, will never Forget How Gifted SHE WAS.😇🌹

[@dashoverton1963]

A lot of people say what an amazing voice Karen Carpenter had, but she also “articulated” the lyrics like no other singer…she sang each word so clearly and distinctly. Other singers, like Barbara Streisand, have great voices too, but when they sang you sometimes couldn’t make out what was articulated.

[@dmilstone5709]

I agree completely with ya Dash, and her voice was instantly recognizable. She had very clear enunciation & articulation with her vocal lines, such a beautiful vibrato and she "connected" completely with what she was singing....AND the girl could play the shit outta them drums. She will always be my favorite female singer.

[@dr.garyhatcher8364]

You raise a very good point. You are right. That was certainly part of it.

[@danasandoval624]

She was also a talented drummer.

[@richardodonnell709]

I often tell people. Turn off the lights, get comfortable and enjoy the music and and voice.

[@rosye78]

That is particularly noticeable when you're not an english speaker. I'm from Brazil and we have english teachers down here who like to use the Carpenters songs in class for that reason. My mother was a big fan of them and I remember understanding Karen a lot better than other singers when I was growing up and learning english.

[@donnagilligan2905]

Karen and Richard were remarkable musicians and grateful to be alive to hear them. Karen had the most incredible rich voice of our lifetimes.

[@billwalsh388]

I'm glad to have been blessed with such good music growing up.

[@ChrisDefalcoblues]

Pure talent, no auto-tune, just talent

[@MrGlenn7710]

Karen's voice was an instrument all in itself 🎤🎶🎹🎧🎼🎷🎸🎙️🎺🎶

[@nigelbence9087]

like liquid gold

[@dharter100]

There were a lot of singers who voice were skilled.

[@bloodaonadeline8346]

@Dbo83 Sarah Vaughan but she was before Karen.

[@jerryspencer5453]

How could you not love The Carpenters

[@jacquelinebouvier3920]

So sad Karen left us so early in her life. She was an angelic figure. Karen and Richard were magical together. Many of their songs are still played today and so emotive and powerful. She was dying right in front of all of us when bringing joy to so many.

[@stevenburger7158]

FREAKY FACT: KAREN CARPENTER (CARPENTERS) 40th ANNIVERSARY OF HER PASSING AWAY FEB. 4, 1983 > WAS JUST '4 DAYS' FROM BURT BACHARACH PASSING FEB. 8, 2023! REMEMBER > IT WAS BURT'S SONG "CLOSE TO YOU" THAT *LAUNCHED* THE 'CARPENTERS' METEORIC CAREER (1st Song/Mega Hit) & MANY MORE FOLLOWED JUST LIKE THAT > 1 SONG RELEASES = ANOTHER HIT!!

[@barbedwire_lace2160]

I'm 67 and proud to say I saw them in concert.😍🤩

[@neilsunn]

I am 58. When magic and music combine...

[@BunyanaRed1958]

The great thing about Karen, was she sang the songs like she was sat with you looking into your eyes. Brilliant talented singer.

[@pdoylemi]

I remember being young and into the Beatles and the Stones, etc and my mother brought home this album called "Close to You". The songs weren't what I normally listened to, but the instant I heard Karen, I was hooked. It was sheer, unadulterated beauty.

[@allanpeterson3358]

Karen was the heavenly voice we needed at the time! Carpenters were superior talented artists!!

[@cynthiarollins3949]

Nothing better than The Carpenters …even in today’s world.Timeless music 💞

[@debpink2010]

I just relate so much to this! I almost died in 1987 of Anorexia. I am thankful for the knowledge of this disease back than because I too might have died. Karen dying of this made it known and made people learn and study how they could help! I got down to 84 albs and everyone told me I would die like Karen if I did not get help.My parents force me into treatment for 4 months and luckily I manage to recovery.

[@PhoebeFayRuthLouise]

I’m so glad you were able to overcome anorexia! Congratulations on 36 more years of life!

[@aleciabjorlie3103]

God bless you…

[@flob54]

God bless 🙏

[@Kelly-sk2yb]

I'm so happy you are alive and well

[@kevinlucas8437]

I'm still a teenager whenever I hear the Carpenters music, one of the best vocalists of all time !!! Karen's velvet voice brings so much joy !!! Yet, so much sadness with her loss.

[@mstrunn]

@kevinlucas8437 Sorry to add on to your nice comment, but THE BEST female vocalist of all time.

[@geraldfrieberg7921]

There was this sadness in her voice. It is almost as if she was predicting her own fate by her very vocal expressions on her recordings.

[@geraldfrieberg7921]

@@mstrunn No, not THE best, but in the top 10 for sure.

[@jesuslovesbass3944]

@@geraldfrieberg7921 Honestly, I don't know if I'd call it a "sadness" in her voice. I can't quite put my finger on what it was, it seems sort of like sadness, but, no that's not quite it. I see it sort of like this, if we were watching a play, or a movie and it was a musical (which they don't make anymore) The person playing the part of a concerned wife, or worried mother, or a woman in love with someone who was far away and she was missing them...Karen's voice would be that voice. Yes, there is sadness there, but still, more to it than just that. I just find it difficult to explain. In any case, her voice was a one of a kind and I've never heard one, even from the super-singers that have come along since, that comes close to the emotional depth of Karen's voice. Just beautiful.

[@stevenburger7158]

FREAKY FACT: KAREN CARPENTER (CARPENTERS) 40th ANNIVERSARY OF HER PASSING AWAY FEB. 4, 1983 > WAS JUST '4 DAYS' FROM BURT BACHARACH PASSING FEB. 8, 2023! REMEMBER > IT WAS BURT'S SONG "CLOSE TO YOU" THAT *LAUNCHED* THE 'CARPENTERS' METEORIC CAREER (1st Song/Mega Hit) & MANY MORE FOLLOWED JUST LIKE THAT > 1 SONG RELEASES = ANOTHER HIT!!

[@debiconner6377]

After all these years, I still know all the words. I was 14, and I loved the Carpenters. Was devastated when she died. She's in heaven teaching the angels to sing.

[@Godwinpounds4333]

Hello 👋how are you doing?

[@flob54]

@Debi Conner Same here. Still upsets me.

[@bradenharris8718]

Lmao so her singing career had her under SO much pressure that she ended up with anorexia and your dream is that she goes to heaven and has yet ANOTHER job Religious people are dumb as hell.

[@joekosobucki2141]

Karen was beautiful, and talented! Richard was very talented too! Wish Karen was still with us so we could still hear her beautiful voice! What a great brother and sister duo!

[@kenyabrewer255]

Yes he was not super talented without her, he was talented but without her, not so much. They, his parents focused on him to much and made her feel in adequate leading to her anorexia. Do this for your brother ,do help him he's a genius and your not doing anything anyway!😢

[@christineplymouth8361]

I visited Karen's grave when it was in Cypress CA (since moved), and it was a beautiful sarcophagus with the inscription, "A Star on Earth, A Star in Heaven"

[@JP5466]

Richard moved her and his parents to Westlake Village in 2005.

[@skygazer6898]

Karen Carpenter's voice was simply beautiful. The Carpenters were great and it is good to hear Richard is ok and having a good life, cos without him the Carpenters would not have existed.

[@jeffreyfeet]

T

[@renarga6886]

Richie is so underrated it breaks my heart.💔

[@billwalsh388]

We were lucky to have had her in our lives.

[@usaneebeilles9510]

@skygazer6898 I agreed.

[@MsRadar23]

I love that Karen just sang sincerely, never danced around the notes or did vocal acrobatics…she never had to with that richness…

[@monilaninetynine3811]

Karen's singing was very conversational. She sounded like she was talking to you.

[@sufyb6432]

I still remember where I was when the news of Karen's death was broken. Absolutely stunned. She had such a beautiful voice that will live forever.

[@kennyhuskisson2684]

I remember that sad day as well, it was just before I left for boot camp for the Army. It still brings tears to my eyes after all these years. She was the best female vocalist, unmatched to this day in my opinion👍✌️

[@Lulusvideos1]

Me too, I was at work in my first company out of high school. All the ladies I worked with were talking about it.

[@gabrielleeast9578]

It's so sad that someone with so much feels that they have nothing and then loses everything.

[@xbrandi12345x]

Karen Carpenter died long before I was born but she saved my life. I was anorexic when there was something on tv one day showing her struggle with anorexia and it was enough to get me thinking about making some changes. I couldn't even swallow food anymore, it was like I had to literally retrain myself to eat. My hair turned gray and frizzy, I was only 12 but thankfully it came back normally once I started to eat again. No adults even noticed. Keeping it a secret is almost like a game you play with yourself because it makes you feel you have control over the situation but I didn't until I decided to eat again. It's one of the hardest things I have ever experienced.

[@sirtigalotwolfe2962]

I am happy to know you got help,, I wish I could hear them sing again today the world needs her now more than ever...

[@nategodleski6842]

Unbelievable. Karen Carpenter has a voice that can never be replicated. Wow!

[@maggieleonard8388]

The world never had a voice that even came close to hers. She was absolutely the very best.

[@part1801]

She's just precious and the most beautiful voice I've ever heard.

[@nigelbence9087]

so agree what a beautiful lady I feel her pain in her songs xxx

[@darrelllake3023]

Angelic

[@scottburton9701]

Karen Carpenter had an incredible voice-Next February will mark the 40th anniversary of her passing.

[@debbiegum2226]

My mom was a huge fan of their music so I listened to them growing up and came to love their music. Karen’s voice could just melt butter and was smooth as silk. When she died I knew what anorexia nervosa was because of a movie I had watched where it had just begun being talked about. It was really sad when she died

[@michelehice8338]

I listen to the carpenters when I was a teenager..she always touched my heart with her voice..it was smooth as silk...no one sings like Karen..Rest in Peace Karen

[@DonMayfield]

I lost my sister, also born 1950, in 2014 from cancer. I have wonderful memories with the music.

[@dwessels100]

I LOVED KAREN WHEN I WAS IN MY TEENS. AND STILL DO. KAREN YOU ARE MISSED TO THIS DAY. BY MILLIONS OF YOUR FANS WORLDWIDE. "REST IN PEACE."

[@storyteller1749]

I still think the Carpenters are the greatest pop vocal group of all time. Yes because of Karen's voice. But also because Richard has always had an ear for amazing songs and the equally amazing talent of arranging them.

[@bettababe7836]

I'm 51, and grew up listening to my mom's Carpenters albums....I still listen to them

[@chrismcevoy2503]

She will always be alive in our minds and in our hearts.

[@officialrockilleotorres9650]

Every time I see Karen especially hear her voice I get teary eyed them songs just hit your soul

[@doloressims5677]

a voice smooth as silk and with such emotion. Unforgetable.

[@halliewhelen4104]

WOW…what special talent! 🎉

[@kimberlydavis7322]

Another example of a great talent who didn't know her worth... we're so fortunate she was able to share it with us while she was here.

[@tjwhetstone475]

I loved it when karen played her drums. She was great on those drums of hers. Her voice was as good if not better than her drumming was. She was truly an amazing talent, yet so fragile. So glad to have her music in my collection, and so sorry she passed so early in her life.

[@davem7847]

I grew up in the 50s/60s, couldn't cope with the hard/acid rock (all noise couldn't hear lyrics), I was so glad when the Carpenters, Captain & Tanille, and other ballad singers came along. The music was alot easier to listen to. Never forget you two.

[@stevedrake4564]

Karen Carpenter -- My Favorite Female Singer of All Time -- I was just out of high school and entering my first year of college when the Carpenters arrived on the scene with their great hits, "Close to You," "We've only Just Begun," and many others -- so many wonderful memories associated with their songs. That is when Karen Carpenter, my favorite female pop singer of all time, arrived on the music scene. Her voice was incomparable -- pure, full, lovely & beautiful, beyond any words or superlatives can convey. Karen must have been beautiful inside to have sung so beautifully and very sweet to have sung so sweetly! My favorite of Karen's songs is "Superstar," sung with so much feeling. In her young 20s I thought she was very pretty, there was no need to have lost so much weight when she was already beautiful! Richard Carpenter was very talented, a great arranger,, pianist and background vocalist. He of course was the driving force behind the Carpenters. Every time I hear Karen's voice I am mesmerized! I will always remember & cherish her and the Carpenters!

[@Coolyguy27]

Linda Perry hit the nail on the head when she said Karen was Struggle and Depression. Never heard it that perfect description before.

[@DA-bp8lf]

Richard was such a humble and loving brother. He was the inspiration and song writer for many of there songs, but he kept quiet about that, so his sister could have all the glory! What an amazing Brother!!!

[@Architecttim]

40 years tonight, I was driving through Iowa, with an AM Radio, we listened to every song of hers. What a night to be alive!

[@thepeskytraveller3870]

Their music brings back so many memories of my childhood. Her voice is one that is so beautiful that the word itself struggles to define it. RIP Karen.

[@annmariebymorning]

I’ll never forget my moms sisters singing “Close to you” to me when I was about 5 or so 😭❤️

[@susanomalley7020]

i still sing it to my daughter,she's 30!

[@elwoogie1963]

As a teenager in the late 70's/early 80's her voice could evoke an emotional response, still does today. So sad she was gone at such a young age.

[@dorydiavelone3531]

I still miss her … I love her voice and she seemed like a sweet person!!

[@thomashusted]

Karen was like a falling star, a bright but short life her legacy lives on through her golden voice and beautiful sad songs that she didn’t just sing but lived.

[@nigelbence9087]

she .use have been so sad and troubled to sin with such empathy 😞 God bless her xx

[@pardyhardly]

It will be a very long time before a voice like that comes along again, if it ever does.

[@christinecrites835]

So beautiful. There'll never be another voice like that.

[@unlistedandtwisted]

It's funny, I always was more amazed by Karen's drumming than singing. She was SO talented. RIP Karen. Thank you for sharing your gifts with the world while you were here.

[@1cmnsents]

she IS the only voice that can sing with so much clarity I've ever heard and I'm over 70 years old. Not like now days that you MUST be to scream at the top of your lungs in order to be heard or liked. As far as I'm concerned she will not be matched for at least the rest of MY life. I cry every time i hear her sing.

[@vickimarlene4905]

I so love the Carpenters. Still play them in my car and sing my heart out. So sad she died way too young. Very sad.

[@h-deck]

Her voice was like butter. Completely unique. And the fact that she sang with her brother made it double cool. Marvelous kids. I miss her marvelous voice. Maybe I won’t have to wait too much longer before I see her again. May God be merciful and I get to cross over soon.

[@mariesterling2431]

Safe travels friend may God heal you from your sickness and grant you peace one day say hello to her for me when you get there

[@jeanaray06]

I cried so hard after she died. I miss her.

[@sjmjay]

Karen was the voice.

[@Centaur81]

What a great documentary that is. On point. Sad to have lost Karen in such a tragic way.

[@redwinet3]

She is definitely on the soundtrack of my childhood. I used to dream of being her and having a voice like hers❣️

[@barbarabangert6594]

My god they were other worldly in their talent . Her voice was like deep rich honey and Richards backup arrangements made their sound superb Every song was so filled with longing and emotion. Thank you for sharing your talent with the world

[@sherryyeager4973]

I literally cry when I listen to her sing, it is so beautiful!

[@nigelbence9087]

you are so right I share her pain xx

[@denabergman6543]

Literally shedding tears. When music is that emotionally driven, it’s that good.

[@John-kl1os]

I’m crying right now.

[@renarga6886]

KC WAS A SINGING GODDESS AND RICHIE IS AN UNDERRATED GENIUS! LOVE THEM BOTH. 💕

[@laurieberry162]

I saw the Karen Carpenter movie. It gave me respect for Karen and her brother. Karen Carpenter was said to have the most beautiful voice in the twentieth century.

[@Ceol1966]

My first concert at age 5 Roanoke Virginia in 1971. I will never forget her❤️

[@mitch19636]

Rest In Peace Karen.

[@andorosello]

Karen Carpenter's voice is a one in a lifetime kind of voice ❤️ It's soothing, it's beautiful it's a wonderful gift to her, and to the world 🙏

[@jodidavis6595]

I graduated in 83’ so I was 18 yrs old. I was so heart sick when I heard the news and cried off and on all day. I still have many of their albums. Thank Karen and Richard for your talent and beautiful music which has many and brought many memories to my life.

[@roxannemoser]

I was too, and 89 pounds. I hid it from my Mom. My parents were divorced and my Dad always was on me about my weight. "Don't get fat", he said. He died of bulimia.

[@lesley-annemartin6722]

Please note she doesn't trill.her notes. She sings them smoothly and perfectly everytime. WOW! Unlike loads of today's singers who disguise bad singing with trilling and multiple notes in.a word. Lord I wish they would stop doing it!!!

[@hermangouw]

The Carpenters was a duo Made in Heaven. Karen had the voice of an angel and Richard was a brilliant singer, songwriter, musician, music arranger and producer. I have been a fan of them since the early 1970's when I was in my early teen. I was very shocked and sad when I learned that Karen passed away in that early 1983. I think it was very cruel that some people commented on her looks at that time ... purely evil. Listening to their music always brings me joy, happiness and peace even until now when I am in my early 60's.

[@gracenotes5379]

Karen's voice definitely hits the soul in unique and powerful way. Impossible not to be instantly moved by her, but let's not forget the superb arrangement and production skills that Richard honed and contributed to the partnership. I wish it could have ended differently for her, but I'm grateful that the recorded legacy is so rich and lives on. (I challenge anyone to listen to the 21 tracks on "Singles 1969-1981" and not be amazed what they achieved in just over a decade of phenomenal output.)

[@literacylabyrinth4018]

Thanks I will check that album out. I love Karens vocals.

[@deesnider6304]

Karen’s mother was dreadful! She didn’t ACT LIKE OR TREAT HER DAUGHTER WITH LOVE…she only cared about her son Richard. HEARTBREAKING

[@wheelchairgeek]

Isn't that all mums?

[@lesmerz3178]

I'm a 68 year old man from Tacoma, WA! I can listen to any Carpenter song at any time, anywhere! It always draws a tear to my eye! Through their music, they certainly spread a lot of joy and love in the world! I am grateful.

[@raygarafano3633]

When I started spinnin' vinyl in 80, The Carpenters was an album I had to get. Somewhere in 44 years it was list, so I bought it again over at Spinnakers records in Hyannis. I was lookin for Eagles greatest hits, blue with an Eagles Skull, saw the Carpenters album and remembered I had it at one time. Time to get it again! I Could not wait to play it again!

[@lacymarie78]

I was nearly five years old when she died, but I discovered their music when I was ten. I instantly fell in love with her voice and the music. I’m still a super fan to this day. I just wish that she was able to get the help she needed so that she would be here today. R.I.P. Karen!

[@justifiedlife1595]

It wasn't til the late 80's I started to realize what a producer, arranger, was and finally appreciated Richard.

[@oreo12ification]

Such a tragedy for Karen and her family. I love their music, but such a waste of beautiful talent…This combination of a brother and sister is unprecedented in the music world. Their work is a gift from God, and I am glad I had the opportunity to hear them… ❤️

[@PamalaBotts]

She was the voice of an era "Blue Eyed Soul" we called it back in the day. RIP dear Karen!

[@dianalester1351]

Her voice was Angelic, which made me so happy!

[@hollylandis4818]

Still heartbreaking after almost 40 years. In fact, I sang We've Only Just Begun at my mother's wedding April 16th 1972. She was my impetus for wanting to be a singer and still is🥰😇💝

[@treborif]

as much as I couldn't stand them back in the '70's I remembered all the lyrics and have been singing along to every song .