The Wonderful, Brief, and Tragic Life of One of the Greatest Voices in History

[@nostalgic-culture]

⭐Considered by many as the greatest female voice in history, Karen Carpenter's story is one of immense talent and profound tragedy. When she needed help the most, her own family turned their backs on her. Together with her brother, she achieved worldwide fame, but her love life was a constant struggle. ❤‍🔥If you enjoy this content, consider using the Super Thanks button below the video to support the channel. 0:00 Introduction: The Tragic Beauty of a Musical Icon 0:57 Early Life and Family Dynamics 2:32 A Musical Duo is Born 4:46 Breaking Through: The Carpenters' Rise to Stardom 7:40 The Golden Era: Karen’s Voice Takes Center Stage 11:40 Behind the Scenes: Pressure and Addiction 13:29 Struggles with Anorexia: The Silent Battle 16:27 Karen’s Solo Dreams and Romantic Heartbreak 20:15 The Final Years: A Life in Decline 21:32 The Tragic End: Karen's Untimely Passing 23:01 Remembering Karen Carpenter 24:01 Closing Remarks 🗨️Please comment below with your thoughts on this artist. 👍Be cordial, and respect opinions. 👎Offensive content will be removed. 🎬Thanks for watching!

[@josephasner171]

Tom and Karen met on a blind date. in April 1980.

[@jamesrecknor6752]

Teresa Teng from Taiwan also had a sweet voice like Karen

[@robbiet8583]

My Favorite song of The Carpenter’s was “Superstar”. I had a very hard time saying that because all of their songs were above everything…❤

[@rosemarykennedy5951]

I heard that Karen starved herself because her mother told her she was fat, & died of a heart failure.

[@cherrisanchez6430]

Look at what Richard became without her. To have a non-loving mom, has to be the worst. 😢

[@ryckless1]

Her voice was just angelic. She deserved better than what she got. RIP

[@giorgosfylaktou2610]

I AGREE 👍 WITH YOU. 🇨🇾🇨🇾

[@bobfranke2347]

Was said she was one of only a few female singers with perfect pitch. Her recorded works highlight the claim. Her death was so unnecessary and premature, as were others that would follow.

[@zx7-rr486]

​@@bobfranke2347I believe it. Analysis of her voice shows she is probably the most accurate singer for pitch ever recorded.

[@daisymae3258]

She didn’t die under mysterious circumstances 🙄. She died as the result of anorexia. Such an amazing and gifted young woman.

[@AnnButowski]

@@ryckless1 it may seem to some of earthly bound folks, still alive and living in this world, that Karen Carpenter did not get a long enough life. But she went “ home” when God appointed the time and the moment . We are fortunate to have the many recordings of her beautiful voice and I for one, feel thankful for that. Presumably, she is reunited with her parents and others she loved on this planet. If “ heaven” is what is even half of what is promised, I doubt the deceased look back even monetarily , to life right here on earth. There is no pain, no illness, no angst, no need for spite , or revenge,Just happiness , total joy and peace, about the the perfection of being with our Almighty God.

[@1950Welshman]

Her hauntingly beautiful voice is timeless. R I P Karen .

[@larry3064]

I was heartbroken when I learned of her passing. She had the sweetest voice on the planet

[@KarenRFlanagan]

@@larry3064 I & my late Mom we where shopping 🛒 for a dining room table in the clearance section of a department store can't recall the name of. That's when I heard that Karen Carpenter had passed away and I didn't remember how young she was much younger than Elvis and he was young still also early 40s .

[@KarenRFlanagan]

@@larry3064 Only Old Blue Eyes 👀 was better Frank Sinatra and legendary performance and already very much established in the music & movie 🎥 industry s.

[@DavidThompson-vu9kl]

Best female singer

[@giorgosfylaktou2610]

@@DavidThompson-vu9kl I AGREE 👍 💯 WITH YOU. I REMEMBER ON EARLY 70'S HER BEAUTIFUL SONG 🎵 'TOP OF THE WORLD'. R.I.P.🇨🇾🇨🇾

[@johnt2831]

On the planet? You people.

[@ChuckUDeux]

I was crushed when she died. She still has a special place in my heart. I still think she is one of the TOP 10 female singers. Her voice, even today, could melt even the coldest person today.

[@charlesstockford6003]

My grand daughter is going through anorexia right now. I had such a crush on her.

[@Anita-ye2hk]

Too bad her voice could not melt her mother’s cold heart !

[@manomenon1]

@@charlesstockford6003 may god heal her

[@DemopVWgarage]

Number one!

[@blueduck9409]

Oh ya. Absolutely.

[@oneilkerr4680]

I was born in 1968. My brother had all her albums as he had a sound system and used to play at parties. I really loved her music. This story was bittersweet for me. A mother's love and acceptance is fundamental to children, no matter their age.

[@AbdulAli-ic6st]

Well said.

[@MrCanadave]

Speaking as an 80-year-old, Karen Carpenter is by far my favourite female vocalist. I still listen to her albums. Her death was a huge loss that I can't understand to this day. I hope she's in heaven, where she belongs. God bless you, Karen.

[@LouiseSCLaan]

Another woman of 80 jr from Holland she was my favorite too!

[@sheilagraham8543]

I’m 84 and still enjoy Karen and Richard: Karen’s voice is unique.

[@barbaracole5037]

Also 80 year young and totally agree with what you have said and add what a preventable tragedy makes her death so hard to comprehend. My favorite song is "We Only Just Begun". Actually, I liked them all.

[@AlusW.]

I'm 83 and play her songs with CD's in my car. I always travel with Karen's beautiful voice.

[@nikkimclay5474]

She died of anorexia

[@sergenerli976]

It is so sad when a child doesn’t hear those words, “I love you” from a parent.

[@patcurrie9888]

Many of us boomer kids didn't hear it. Many parents were emotional distant but, good providers. It was extreme though with the wench Agnes, when a doctor asked her about it.

[@Krisna_Bali]

I wonder if the mother is a narcissist. Because they/she will be happy to make their children suffer emotionally. I think her husband was a narcissists either.

[@annetteelliott1494]

I know.........

[@sharonhuthnance1100]

I KNOW MY MUM NEVER SAID SHE LOVE ME MY MUM DIE AT 46 YS OLD FTOM CANCER.😢😢

[@debbieschultz9768]

I didn’t hear it. The hurt never goes away

[@Ita-tony]

This woman, Karen Carpenter, truely has a beautiful voice that will not die. The songs she sang, were ok songs, but her female voice, made them oh so exceptionally better. She has a fantastic tone, and balance and a most graceful sound. R.I.P. , and thank you, for singing for us.

[@calebheier4988]

My heart breaks still for Karen Carpenter! I am a pediatric nurse and listened to the Carpenters since I was in middle school. I also cared for many Anorexia patients . It is tragic how many young people died because we didn’t know how dangerous this disease really was.

[@Justin.Martyr]

*Gifted with EveryThing & she Chose Suicide !!!!*

[@lisedeschambault727]

Her mother was so mean. Karen, you have the greatest sweetest voice ever. Rest in peace, Karen.

[@sandradalton4800]

Rainy Days and Mondays is my favorite Carpenters song, but her voice was so golden that every song was best.

[@doncasto8520]

She is the greatest female vocalist in my lifetime. I still listen to her to this day and grief the loss.

[@joelwelch5762]

You have your preferences. But Anne Murray and Helen Reddy, are right up there.

[@caroletoney3209]

Karen had a beautiful voice. Gone too soon.

[@richardandre9811]

Likewise here, yes the greatest female vocalist I’ve ever had the pleasure of listening to gone way too early.

[@JohnnyButtons]

My personal opinion, Karen had the most beautiful voice I’ve ever heard in my 50+ years.

[@litog888]

Though i have almost all her albums growing up but the mostest ____ female voice may not be. There are a lot of other greats; i myself am partial to joan baez in style & genre.

[@joebarker4211]

Their music kept me sane during my two tours in Vietnam

[@MT-lo7dt]

Thank you for your service.

[@KarenRFlanagan]

@@joebarker4211 There music 🎵 is keeping me sane now. Tough month 1 person has already passed away and waiting on the 2nd individual and I will not name them out of respect. Very difficult time.

[@KarenRFlanagan]

@@joebarker4211 yes indeed thank you for your service Sir God bless you and our brave troops always man march on . Women and men March into the breach with out blinking so brave.

[@TheTolstoy2nd]

​@@KarenRFlanaganGod Bless you Karen. Don't think you are alone in this difficult time. Face it with courage and soon the clouds of sorrow and despair would lift and you'll feel rejuvenated and revitalized as its the promise of the Almighty God "Verily with hardship comes ease". Indeed we belong to God and indeed to Him we will return.” Just stay strong and don't let your guard down.

[@Barry-lf7jx]

It's hard

[@ruthchristianea.6454]

I am German and when I was 18 years in 1976, my english pen pal introduced to me The Carpenters and asked me to listen to their new album 'A kind of hush' . I did, and from the first moment, I fell in love with the songs and her voice. Immediately it was clear to me having to buy the album. I loved every song on it. The Carpenters never left my life and I bought every album first on records, then cassettes, then CDs. They accompanied my life from this moment on and helped me through every situation a young girl is going through. Now I am 66 years old and still Karens voice to me is the sweetest and most precious in the world. There will never be a better one. I often wonder, how thier songs would be like in these days... The Carpenters became a part of my life and I feel lucky and blessed to have had them in my life since I was 18. Karen, Richard, I hope to see you again in heaven to listen to your wonderful voices, this great gift of God, forever. Thanks for every song you blessed us with❤❤❤

[@combatmedic91-b76]

I was 16 in 1976 & enjoyed listening 🎶 to Karen Carpenter. I live in America on west coast. 😊 MERRY CHRISTMAS 🎅

[@retroraga]

I was 16 in 1976. There's a kind of hush all over the world tonight ... what a voice! I can hear Karen singing it deep in my heart.

[@Justin.Martyr]

*TRUTHERS such as ME, Don't Get Pen PaLs!!!! But, I GOT GOD !!!!*

[@kimmcclain9211]

I loved her voice also. A young girl in England sounds just like her! Her name is Harriet. She can be seen in concert over there. She has a few tik tocs under Harriet.

[@4xpipcounter9]

I loved the Carpenters, and like most everyone else, loved her voice. At 17 years in 1973, I got to meet Karen before the concert started in Sacramento at the Memorial Auditorium. She impressed me as someone with a beautiful personality, yet troubled. She was personable, yet reclusive. I loved her for simply taking the time to talk to me. As a bonus, I was given one of her black drumsticks that I proudly displayed in my bedroom. I still miss her and The Voice.

[@justdontJD]

I've heard her story before, but was unaware how jealous Richard was of her. It's really sad since her voice made him a very rich man.

[@BarbaracBlevins]

@@justdontJDRichard is such a joke.

[@valoriegray2859]

Richard was never jealous of Karen. It's the person narrating this story that claims this. He cared deeply about his sister. He made sure that her fans never got too close in order to hurt her. One fan tried to grab her when they were going into a studio in Las Vegas. Richard was the one who got Karen away from the creep, and put himself between the creep and her. I had the honor of meeting Richard, and his love for his sister shown every time he talked about her. This narrator needs to recheck his story, instead of going off a movie that made her parents out to be bad people. The carpenters cared for each other, even though they rarely said 'I love you'. Loving your family doesn't always have to be said by words. They can also be shown with caring, kindness and motions. Never go on shows that produce fake tails.

[@pamelaharnage]

It's the other way around. Karen was jealous of Richard because of the relationship he had with their mother

[@BarbaracBlevins]

@@pamelaharnage you have your opinion and I have mine. God bless you.

[@ThomasSansing]

The Carpenters were renowned world wide and will never be duplicated. With Richard's piano ability and Karen's voice were both incredible.

[@juliemunro1]

Such a sad story. She was let down by her mother, a woman who should have supported her

[@sharonwappler8524]

I feel myself blessed to have had loving parents, compared to so many people 💗

[@laraoneal7284]

Yes, many of us had toxic parents thus had very sad experiences as children. God bless all of you who experienced an abusive childhood.

[@CVenza]

She was betrayed by her new husband and A&M; They used her for property gain. 🥺🥺👎👎

[@blueduck9409]

And her brother, and husband. Poor girl.

[@danielpoot5705]

My parents love us. But most of our life they were not there, that' why the word "I love you" are very awkward.

[@mariekitty]

I still listen to her. Her voice was singular and unique. We lost her too soon. RIP Karen. ❤

[@MollyLowHuiSuan]

Karen Carpenter was one of my favourite singers. She had a great voice and a style very much her own. So very original. May her soul rest in peace. She will be remembered forever.

[@normasmither202]

Karen's voice was so pure and smooth. There will never be another like her. She had so much to offer the world. She had a voice of an angel.

[@jillmortlock8439]

Her brother was the golden child despite the fact that she was obviously the star. He has never achieved at the same level since she died.

[@larrytrejo1882]

@@jillmortlock8439 what happened to him is he in music still

[@alanfothergill9719]

I've listened to the Carpenters all my life and I'm 67 now. They have been my favourite duo forever and I never tire of listening to them. My favourite track comes from their Now and Then album called ironically ICant Make Music. This is the most beautiful, and soulful track and portrays Karen's voice at it very best. She had a voice that can never be compared and probably never will. Rest in peace Karen. Your voice will be in Heaven with the Angels.

[@lohikarhu734]

For me, there's a couple of not often heard songs... ordinary fool, little altar boy, last one singing the blues

[@GoddessSixx]

Karen died of a broken heart. She deserved better. 'Superstar' is my favorite Carpenters song. Rest in peace, Karen. Your mom can't hurt you anymore.

[@hardinFrisco]

She died from anorexia

[@Suzette-gb7uj]

That’s my favorite, too! But anything Karen sang was simply perfect. Such an amazing talent.

[@Suzette-gb7uj]

She died from heart failure, which was a consequence of her anorexia nervosa. She was at a normal weight at the time of her death. But her heart was so badly damaged from the abuse (malnutrition) that it no longer had the strength to support her normal weight.

[@sarahpiaggio2693]

When she said KC died of a broken heart, she's talking about what CAUSED her to be anorexic ie that her mother didn't love her.

[@GoddessSixx]

@sarahpiaggio2693 Thank you! You nailed exactly what I was trying to say.

[@Allaboutthe80s]

Her story is so heartbreaking to listen to. The 2 people who should have loved and supported her the most were actually jealous of her. I blame her mother more than Richard though. Everybody in her life let her down.Her voice was otherworldly and so unique and you can feel the pain and heartbreak in her voice when she sang. Makes me cry. She was literally one of a kind. R.I.P. beautiful Karen. 🕊

[@stevebetker829]

Still can’t believe this happened to her. She not only had a terrific voice but expert iconic drummers had her in the top 10 greatest drummers of all time.

[@carlatamanczyk3891]

As a 75 year old I still very much miss Karen's voice. It was beautiful. I'm sure her voice is much enjoyed in Heaven.

[@or2ak]

LOL

[@davidjames4583]

I graduated High School in 1979 so I grew up with the Carpenters always topping the charts . It was a shock when I heard that she had passed. RIP Karen Carpenter. She was an awesome vocalist and drummer. 🥁

[@JeffreyLeohner]

I graduated in 1978, in Portland, Maine, and fortunately got to see the Carpenters in a concert, in Portland, Maine, with my parents! They were great! So sad she died so young, what a beautiful voice, still miss her! Rest in peace Karen! You were the best! ❤️❤️

[@SageWhite-Rose]

I graduated in 1980, so I can totally relate.

[@robbailes9614]

1979 grad. So popular in my early years of independence and exploration

[@paulbaker3144]

@@SageWhite-RoseSame. They were on the radio every day. Miss them. So sad.

[@Highflite20]

I graduated in 1979 in Kentucky and loved Karen’s beautiful voice!

[@josephsdale3724]

I've come across several mothers who were very much like Agnes - and none of them deserved to have children. Those loving words never occurred, and it left that lovely girl devastated, and finally dead. It makes me cringe and weep for her. Mothers - take care of your offspring. You never know when they might leave you - for good.😢

[@jadequincey3456]

My mother was one of those mothers

[@amandamorgan2802]

The so-called mother did not care whether she died. She should not even have married.Probably as cold as Alaska...

[@Michael-p3z5s]

Also that off the cuff remark some man in an article made about her need to lose weight makes me wonder how attractive he was.

[@elliebradley5192]

I was born a year before Karen, also had a talented musical brother called Richard - my mother's favourite! I couldn't ever be as good as him in any way in my mother's eyes. I can see why Karen, despite her beautiful voice, suffered from the problems she experienced ending in her death. I hope her mother realised how her attitude towards Karen contributed. Poor Karen. R.I.P ❤

[@gingermaynor495]

@@elliebradley5192 Agree with you. I can see how her family dynamics contributed to her feelings of insecurity. Her mother's treatment of her likely shaped the way the entire family viewed Karen and treated her. If Karen had lived longer, she may have been able to see it for herself and overcome it. It is tragic.

[@haroonphd]

As a part of her treatment, the doctor asked her family to tell her that they loved her! (Very sad indeed!) 🥺💖

[@terrymorris3609]

I sung "We've Only Just Begun " at my senior graduation 1978. Karen's voice will always be remembered. Shouting out from North Carolina.

[@FLR1131]

She did NOT pass away under “mysterious circumstances.” Her anorexia caused her to take laxatives and exercise incessantly. This depleted potassium from her system; which is critical for heart function; therefore, her heart failed.

[@asipattle]

Yes. She died from anorexia, a reflection of her unhappiness.

[@shalimarsulaiman7557]

Mismatched marriage to the wrong guy..RIP Karen. Missed her much❤

[@conniemiller5970]

If she would have known how much she is still loved today and she had the most beautiful, unusual voice that has never been matched.

[@EllenExton-m6p]

The tragedy of a male dominated world where women are second class or property. When a woman is very successful , she is ignored and treated as unimportant. A society where women are judged by her weight and looks is very sexist and destroys women and girls. She was so very talented and destroyed. Her own family destroyed by her.

[@l_ifeefi_l1998]

I had hypokalamia as well. I wonder how she functions since this condition caused me to be tired and breathless all the time. U practically cant live a normal lifestyle. It affects everything. And it took a long time of depletion to reach critical Condition.

[@karenlubich]

It was such a a tragic loss. When I hear Karen's voice it makes me emotional. Karen had one of the best female vocals of all time. I love listening to her voice. I feel if her mom would have paid more attention to Karen she might still might be alive today. May you continue to rest in peace Karen. You may be gone but you are not forgotten. Karen was also a great drummer

[@56beverley]

Not just her mum but father too. Its clear they both always favoured Richard over Karen all her life. No wonder poor Karen developed issues. They clearly thought Richard was the star of the family despite Karen's talent and wonderful voice.

[@miriamhenshaw3822]

Adored the CARPENTERS . Still play all their music. What an horrific life. Poor Karen may she rest in peace.

[@cecelia948]

Im asking myself why i ended up here as a 45 years old in 2024 and yet she fascinates me and reminds me of my own crazy journey in foster care where the only control i had was over food. Life is a crazy journey for sure.

[@lilcourtney6922]

She really is the most unique voice ever. There is noone could ever copy that voice. She had passion truth sadness tone .

[@triplemotor]

Greed and Ego by her brother, lack of love from her mother, and that disgusting remark from a the newspaper idiot, about her weight, played such an emotional toll on her health .Karen was a beautiful lady with incredible talent. I miss her

[@morwp3010]

Exactly my thoughts. What kind of a Mom who wouldn't want to cooperate w the doctor by saying "I love you"to her own daughter. Then on the movie, they had to LIE again to gain monetary value. TIME has a way of giving justice. I wonder If the family Karen left behind, learned their lessons.😢

[@Pam-dk8vq]

Karen had a hauntingly beautiful voice Her life was so short, and her death senseless Ive been l istening to her for 45 years Can't name a favorite song, because I love them all. Fly high, Karen. Hello from the mountains of NE Georgia.

[@johnallen-mo1gx]

Karen voice was smooth as silk.Miss her talent

[@CA-lf7jt]

My mom and I were ( are) prof musicians. I have friends that worked w the Carpenters, partially Richard w Disney music. We idolized them and her voice! She did her own drumming! Gorgeous. Than when I was little she died and my mom had to explain why she died.

[@barbaradefaria5604]

She deserved so much better. RIP Karen...your star shines brightly in heaven.

[@zigman8550]

Karen still is the best and most talented female "pop" vocalist and drummer in the world. And she's been gone for over 40 years. 😢

[@melanieweekes7516]

I loved the carpenters. Karen's voice is iconic. she was 10 years older than me and I moved out of my parents house into an apartment with a friend On February 3, 1983, we woke up the next moring to hear the news that she had passed. our lives paraleled in other ways, her failed marriage was on August 31. I married my husband on August 31 1985 (we are still married) she was a drummer, my husband is a drummer and two of our three sons are also drummers. My youngest son won the John Phillip Sousa award for his musical talents. Karen also won that award.

[@judyroberts1710]

Maybe you soul connected.

[@anywherepcgeeks827]

I have always enjoyed listening to Karen Carpenter's singing, but I never knew the sad story behind all of it. I am not ashamed to admit that this video has moved me to tears. So sad to see a beautiful young young lady like that destroyed by unloving parents. Karen, RIP

[@stanleywang8524]

I think Agnes was a narcissistic mother and Richard was the golden child who got all the attention. Richard also adored and obeyed his mother. The golden child often has narcissistic traits. Karen was the neglected child.

[@jhglaze]

Yeah me too!

[@gordon-1]

... and spoiled, narcissistic brother.

[@kevinlupker9821]

Karen Carpenter had the most beautiful female voice I have ever heard in my life! Losing her at 32 years of age of anorexia nervoswa was a terrible tradgey and loss for the world! My husband is also a huge fan and I regret not going to see her with my mother at the Canadian National Exhibition in Toronto, Ontario, Canada in the early 70's when we lived there for 2 years. We moved there when my father was given a job opportunity and we left PA to move there after my junior year of high school. Kevin and I talk about all the beautiful new songs she would have contributed to her collection had she lived longer. She's up in heaven singing with the angels now, I have no doubt! She must be in the middle of them. I used to play my Carpenter albums at night while I was trying to fall asleep. Her voice was so soothing and gorgeous.

[@LynMichael-o5g]

I’ve heard her story, she was anorexic, had been in the hospital and came home and died soon after. Her major organs shut down . Her voice was so great, we missed a lot by her passing. So tragic.

[@heathermatheson329]

No-one will ever come close to the beautiful voice of Karen and still remembered so much. It was such a shame she died so young. We loved her here in the UK too

[@ScottsdaleSushi]

My brother worked for a production company & met them. He said they were both so thin it was jarring. It made me so sad to find out later what was going on. Even my brother picked up on Richard's demanding to be the most important Carpenter. Their music is part of the backdrop of my becoming a teen to an adult.

[@allanransby7119]

"You" are my absolutely favourite. I believe that Karen could sing the phonebook and it would have been a hit. If there is a choir in heaven, I believe that Karen and Eva Cassidy must be the lead vocals. Thanks for telling this sad story. Karen should have been here for many more years and many, many more songs.

[@sandiadamson1754]

Oh yes, Eva Cassidy was awesome! Another sad loss!😢

[@amandalee1268]

Karen carpenter has this soulful voice, nobody can sing the songs the way Karen did. So sad, she didn’t see the beauty in herself and her voice.

[@sharonsalzberg2654]

Anorexia Nervosa is a psychiatric disorder. It is after incurable and leads to death.

[@MsPokepie]

I was born 1965 and I heard this song when I am 8 years I keep singing this beautiful lovely female angel voice I can’t believe she’s gone thank you KZbin. God bless your soul Karen Carpenters. Your music will be till the end of world. 🙏🙏🙏

[@thezaethundermaker8612]

She, Karen Carpenter, was one of my first favorites in music! I never knew she had such a uncaring mother, so tragic! Thanks for the video!

[@SeamusMcGillicuddy0]

Brother Richie was a prima donna. He worked dear Karen to death. R.I.P. beautiful lady, you’ll forever be missed. 💐♥️

[@randiward6394]

You did an amazing job telling Karen's sad story. What a tragic loss her death was.

[@MrLeedebt]

They had an amazing number of hits. Karen's voice was capable of turning any song into something so beautiful.

[@kristenclark1207]

She had a solo album?

[@vicsheilahartley7404]

There are so many accurate plaudits about Karen here, I struggled think of what to add. Her voice on my favourite song, ‘Goodbye to Love’ was so brilliant I couldn’t wait to see her for the first time on British TV. She was unique and fabulous. Among all the great female vocalists, in my view, she was the best. Vic, Whitchurch, England

[@wonderwho7212]

Thanks for posting this story. I was in high school when I first heard Karen's voice on the radio. Although I did like the rock n roll, Karen's songs were meaningful for the young in love. "We've only just begun" was my and my high school sweetheart's favorite song. I loved all her songs. It's always sad to hear stories about her dysfunctional family. Even though you mentioned anorexia was not well known then, we did hear about it being a key influence in her death. Perhaps it was to make us aware of this eating disorder. Her music has always remained in my heart. Karen was a beautiful soul. ❤

[@Neilfrozn]

I saw that movie. It's a shame that her family wasn't willing to help her more. It is a very sad, tragic tale. The music world lost one of its greatest voices!

[@valoriegray2859]

That movie was a fake documentary about her life. Richard took the writer and producer to court. Won millions from the law suit. So next time, watch those old interviews Richard did after she died, before making out that their parents were bad people. He talks about that movie and how wrong it was about their lives.

[@janieepperson-bloomfield7415]

I grew up in Downey and knew the family through Downey Theatre. She was so very sweet and kind. She never let fame change her basic lovable character. I feel sad that her eating disorder was never discussed or that her parents, brother, producers etc only wanted her voice and did not know her deep feelings of inadequacy. I remember when she became so thin and I worried like others that eh had illness not discussed. In 2024 it is my hope that her story inspire others to take actions sooner. Thank you for this truly amazing story🌺

[@josephdondero6275]

So many of these uber talented recording artists start young, flame out, and either die or go broke. And their families seem to be their worst enemies.

[@sp5704]

Usually the very talented in a family gets scapegoated or abused and exterminated …

[@DGray-v5z]

At work, as well.

[@josephkozlowski-du3kh]

My sister Marie died of cancer, and the carpenters were her best and favorite group. I know they were Duola call my group. It brings me to tears when I watch Karen sing and listen to her. She had a beautiful voice. It’s a shame what happened

[@rogermurphey7444]

I always consider. Karen Carpenter a voice of a Angel.. 😊

[@Sunset-17-faq]

Totally get this! I too was anoxic! My mother too, never loved or supported me! She chose my sister! Blessed I put myself in rehab! And yes, finally stopped the cycle of trying to get love that my mother was incapable of! I recognized that I had friends that gave me unconditional love! I recognized I am love & don’t have to seek love outside myself! Family is not blood but friends& self love!

[@AlbertPalmer-eb8wi]

Definitely the finest voice ever no one will ever come close to that delicious voice absolute purr talent

[@nicholastullett5653]

I totally agree, but there is one other. Judith Durham of The Seekers. They are both number one on my list. No 1A and 1B but both number one. Listen to some of The Seekers music to appreciate her magnificent voice, expecially The Carnival is Over and many more. Both Karen and Judith are the best voices to ever grace this planet even though Karen was a contalto and Judith a soprano. I would have loved to hear them sing together especially All the Beast and the Children.

[@AlbertPalmer-eb8wi]

Yes I totally agree with you caran carpenter Judith Durham Mary MC Gregor and Olivia newton John the four greatest voices of all time and absolute pleasure to listen to not like the total rubbish they call music today

[@AlbertPalmer-eb8wi]

There's just one other I forgot to mention jo Stafford another delicious voice

[@nicholastullett5653]

@@AlbertPalmer-eb8wi Yes, Mary McGregor, "Torn Between Two Lovers" she does a marvelous rendition of that. I have her in my greatest list as well. I have never been a great fan of ONJ though. Karen and ONJ were great friends. I have many in my list like Dionne Warwick, Helen Reddy, Dusty Springfield, Helen Shapiro, Petula Clark and the oldest of the bunch now passed a couple of years ago Doris Day, and one more Vera Lynn. All have wonderful voices.

[@AlbertPalmer-eb8wi]

Yes I fully agree we seem to have the same great taste in music there is nothing to day to compare with them it's not music today it's just noise

[@carolhesterberg7526]

The best duo in history! Can't pick a favorite tune because they were all fabulous. Carol from Cincinnati, Ohio.

[@nikkiLee-hf6gx]

Not even the 2nd best duo.

[@RogerWeller-o5r]

She did have the sweetest voice I've ever heard and sang so many good songs I can't pick just one. Rest in peace beloved Karen!!!!

[@hookipaboy3412]

No one really talks about how Karen Carpenter was one of the greatest female singers of all time except for those of us fortunate enough to have grown up in the 70’s!!!(I had a classmate named Annette that could pass as Karen’s twin)Aloha from Hawaii🤙🏽

[@terrydillon9323]

Rest In Peace dear lady. Thank you for sharing your wonderful talent with us.

[@xavierminchello8431]

WHEN WE PASS INTO SPIRIT OUR SOULD DO NOT REST! WE CONTINUE TO EXIST AND ARE VERY BUSY LEARNING AND RAISING OUR SPIRITUAL VIBRATION SO WE CAN ACHIEVE THE NEXT LEVEL. BE A CRITICAL THINKER AND STOP BUYING INTO OLD WORLD CLICHE THINKING!

[@jefferybyrd5493]

All America cried for her. What a voice

[@riconui5227]

Can't say it was my style of music, but Karen's voice took me right in. The girl had some soul and a liquid way of phrasing. Angelic. RIP.

[@allanbriggs9007]

Not my style of music, however she had a lovely voice - at a time when there were many beautiful female voices in the music scene.

[@Rebelheart06]

She gave so much but received so little! 😢Her voice incites echoes of my childhood! RIP beautiful Karen!!💛

[@ReginaThomas-o8z]

I saw the Carpenters perform at the Hollywood Bowl in the 70’s. I’ve always loved their music. She always sounded like she was pouring her heart into her songs.

[@margarettomkins231]

Beautiful voice. So distinctive

[@robertbishop5357]

Her loss was tragic and could have been avoided with the right help and support.

[@KarenRFlanagan]

@@robertbishop5357 I m not blaming her brother Richard Carpenter my point is he's appsautly silent today and he refused to speak to Jay Leno and no he won't do it why . If you have zero to hide, then open up it's been long enough. I know she's your sister but we loved her too.?!

[@heatherjooste4966]

We only know this now. Because in those years nobody talked about mental health, so very, very sad 😢

[@DanieltheTruebadour]

Every time I hear her wonderful voice it breaks my heart. Rest in blessed peace, dear, sweet Karen.

[@19irving]

"Top of the World " was our elementary school graduation song in 1974. The Carpenters were super popular then.

[@lindafenk4537]

She had the voice of an angel. The most beautiful voice of any female singer of any time

[@odysseusreturns9133]

I've been listening to that unique voice for the last 40 years and have never tired of it. Just as soothing now as it was all those years ago. A favourite? hard choice, but the lesser known "All you get from love is a love song" certainly ranks highly on my list.

[@AnnButowski]

I knew the family. Richard was never jealous of his sister. Richard was and is, a brilliant song writer and music arranger. Her voice was top shelf! Very unique and immediately recognizable. She was a delightful person, but emotionally insecure because though their Her already insecurity mother loved both her children, she adored Richard and favored him in many ways. Eating disorders were largely unheard of at that time and I do not think her parents realized how ill Karen was , and how much danger she was in, due to her health. Her marriage was a disaster! She wanted to cancel the wedding, but her Mother would not permit that! Even though she was starting to make some improvements in her health, but her heart was already damaged and she suddenly died, while staying in her parents home. Richard has repeatedly honored his sister and her talents over the years. They were both devoted to each other.

[@rickkirpas7899]

Thank you for your accurate remembrance.

[@istudios225]

Then why did Richard prevent Karen's solo album from being released when she was still alive?? Sounds like jealousy to me, very likely due to their mother always favouring Richard and always putting Karen down.

[@LS-ft7ho]

​​@@istudios225" she loved both children"!!! BUT, adored Richard and favoured him in many ways!!! Rightly said, why didn't they release Karen's album. I guess we know why. The ONLY reason people hold you back is to make themselves "feel" better. Poor Karen ❤

[@jguenther3049]

@@istudios225 Richard was not the only one who was in favor of shelving Karen's solo album. The studio execs were unanimously against releasing it, as too great a departure from the Carpenters' body of work. Karen concurred. As years went by, the importance of maintaining the pure "Carpenter's image" waned relative to the importance of pleasing fans. Fans became the primary market for the solo album. Except for making the top 20 in Japan, sales were modest. We saw the Carpenters perform at Harvey's in Lake Tahoe. They were superb. The performance was unforgettable.

[@juneyshu6197]

Anorexia causes awful bodily damage. 😢

[@labc112259]

Beautiful girl and music. . . What a beautiful voice. So sorry there was no name for what she suffered from. Gone to soon

[@donyamaguchi4390]

Truly, the best female vocalist of our time !!!

[@raymondgracie2592]

She was in the same era as Aretha Franklin… IDK…

[@gloriavann3561]

Karen Carpenter had the voice of an Angel. Had she only been given all the LOVE she DESERVED💕 What a tragic loss for the music industry. Gone but you will never be forgotten lovely one🙏

[@stephenjackson7797]

Thanks for mentioning all their biggest hits and where they landed on Billboard. That was a trip down memory lane for me.

[@markhine3232]

Karen was the greatest voice I've ever heard. She was like listening to an angel.y fave song of hers was ONLY YESTERDAY. I was living that life until my wife walked into my life n changed the whole world for me. A gift from God I thank him for everyday.

[@tammyhoushour8070]

When i heard she died i cried so hard . I loved her so much. My favorite singer gone nooo.😢 i listened to her all the time at home in my room and in my car in the 70's . Her song we've only just begun was used in many weddings. ❤

[@janicegreenwood1019]

Loved loved loved Karen carpenter Voice was absolutely mesmerizing Greatest ever

[@JosephAiris]

I grew up hearing their music. I considered her the voice of America.

[@sherylbartlett3871]

❤KAREN CARPENTER...IN MY HUMBLE OPINION, SHE IS THE GREATEST FEMALE SINGER OF ALL TIME!!❤❤. MISS YOU KAREN....HOPE YOUR JOURNEY NOW IS FILLED WITH LOVE, JOY AND HAPPINESS.....😢❤😊❤😅❤😊❤😊

[@valoriegray2859]

How many people remembers that 'Goodbye To Love' was one of the most requested songs on the radio. It was because of so many breakups during that time.

[@marykopydlowski4654]

I adored her. Hervoice she seemed like she had it all! She seemed to me as a perfectionist, sweet, kind, loved her brother. I was still in junior high when they were singing. Close to you, a beautiful song

[@marykopydlowski4654]

Voice of an Angel, beautiful girl, sure miss her and her brother performing

[@PatriciaMohideen-r7b]

Most beautiful voice,my son was only 7 years old,and truly understood her pain,we in jhb south Africa is and will always be her biggest fans RIP you are truly an amazing Angel,we love you unconditionally always forever 😢

[@cindyk3422]

Karen Carpenter truly had the voice of an angel.

[@or2ak]

Aren't all angels male?

[@twosweet4742]

One of the BEST vocalists of all time! Great story Nostalgic Culture!!

[@Praiser_WV]

This is such a sad story. Karen was a pawn. Her voice angelic. It is sad to know she did try to please so many people and she never knew true happiness. Her mother of all people, IMO, was an abuser. May Karen RIP and know Gods Love is her Healer. Her songs still live on.

[@herminiamagto5148]

Watching from the Philippines. Thanks for the story about Carpenters. I love them....the voice of Karen....thank God for her sweet voice.

[@vincentrizzo497]

Broken Heart and the worst thing is betrayal. RIP to a beautiful soul ❤️🙏🏻

[@6821hominy]

She did not pass away from “mysterious circumstances”. Anorexia nervosa & the chronic use of epicac syrup which caused heart failure.

[@patcurrie9888]

wrong, her extreme weight gain did her in. The narrator said it, after her already weakened heart due to issues.

[@lisalawson7195]

Pushed on by her heartless parents.😢

[@patcurrie9888]

@@lisalawson7195 Her mom, Agnes is in hell

[@SuzanneU]

@@patcurrie9888The extreme weight gain was 20lb, over six months. She checked into treatment weighing 77lb.

[@conniewolf7300]

Thank you for telling the truth about this eating disorder that caused her death.

[@Tiffany.1970]

Just recently purchased a carpenter's CD box set of Richard and Karen absolutely adore Karen's singing n oh boy Karen's voice is like a angel singing .....Karen carpenter's voice was very soothing and relaxing to listen to ...very sensual voice was Karen's voice one of a kind 😻👍😁❤️

[@shirleydowd7102]

Loved her as a teen as australian neighbours had gone off to Vietnam her voice was magic so sad she is a angel xxx

[@moyrahroberts2275]

I grew up listening to her music. She had an amazing voice, and was one of the best female singers ever...I lived all of her songs...

[@wlenssenbroker]

From Ontario, Canada: It is so sad that celebrities undergo so much pressure to be more than "normal" and as such, experience life harshly. Yes, "normal" people experience the same and no human is exempt from life's hurdles and challenges. To have them while "on stage" and "in the public eye" adds that much more pressure to "perform" and reach the audience expectations of success. Karen Carpenter was a sweet, innocent victim of mental illness that could have been resolved with love from her family first. Message: Love your family members for that will be their life saver in hardship. And "Let's Talk" about mental health. Thanks for posting this. Always a fan of the Carpenters having grown up with their/her music.