Settle In and Relax with the Top 3 Songs by The Carpenters
If you're looking to wind down after a long day, few things are as soothing as the soft, melodic sounds of The Carpenters.
Whether you're already a fan or just discovering them, these three timeless songs offer the perfect soundtrack for a peaceful evening. Their harmonies invite you to slow down, breathe, and simply enjoy the music.
Who Were The Carpenters?
The Carpenters were a brother-sister duo—Karen and Richard Carpenter—who rose to fame in the 1970s with their uniquely gentle pop sound. Karen's rich, warm contralto voice became their signature, backed by Richard's polished arrangements and piano work.
Tragically, Karen Carpenter passed away in 1983 at just 32 years old due to complications related to anorexia nervosa. Her untimely death brought public awareness to eating disorders at a time when the topic was rarely discussed. Richard Carpenter, her older brother, is still alive and has continued to preserve their musical legacy.
Despite their relatively short time together as a performing act, the Carpenters left behind a catalog of deeply touching and beautifully arranged songs. Below are three of their most iconic and beloved tracks.
1. We've Only Just Begun
Often considered their most enduring hit, We've Only Just Begun captures the essence of hope and new beginnings. Originally written as a bank commercial jingle (yes, really!), it blossomed into a full-fledged love song that resonated deeply with young couples starting their lives together.
Karen's smooth voice paired with the gentle instrumental backdrop creates an atmosphere of optimism and serenity. It's been used in countless weddings over the years—and for good reason. Its melody and message wrap you in a warm, hopeful embrace.
2. Close to You
"(They Long to Be) Close to You" was the Carpenters' breakout hit and marked their arrival on the mainstream music scene in 1970. It's hard to resist the gentle sway of this Burt Bacharach and Hal David classic, especially when delivered in Karen's effortless style.
This song has a sweetness that feels almost dreamy, as if it were written for quiet Sunday mornings or reflective evening strolls. Richard's arrangement gives it a simplicity that allows the emotion to take center stage. For many fans, this track embodies the essence of the soft pop genre itself.
I used to sing this song while rocking my babies to sleep. It brings back so many sweet memories of those early days.
3. Rainy Days and Mondays
For those quieter, more introspective moments, Rainy Days and Mondays is the perfect companion. The song beautifully captures the feeling of melancholy without becoming heavy or dark. It's the kind of song that makes you feel understood—even comforted—when you're not quite yourself.
Karen's voice here is especially moving, as she conveys vulnerability with great poise and grace. The lyrics touch on the universal experience of those off-days, but in a way that feels healing rather than hopeless. It's a gentle reminder that everyone has gray days, and music can be a soft place to land.
Let the Music Wrap Around You
These three songs by the Carpenters are more than just nostalgic hits—they're a gentle retreat from a noisy world. Whether you're reminiscing about the past or discovering their music for the first time, take a moment to let the harmonies wash over you.
Enjoy some nostalgia. Take time to relax. Let the Carpenters be the soundtrack to your calm evening.
