Few voices in music history have ever captured hearts quite like Karen Carpenter’s. With her rich, velvety contralto and effortless ability to convey emotion, she transformed every song into an intimate experience. As the voice of The Carpenters, she helped define the soft rock and pop sound of the 1970s, delivering hits that remain timeless today.
From soul-stirring ballads to joyful anthems, Karen’s voice had a way of making you feel every note, every lyric, every story. Whether she was singing about love, longing, nostalgia, or heartbreak, her performances were nothing short of mesmerizing. Alongside her brother Richard Carpenter, she created a legacy of music that continues to resonate with fans across generations.
In this countdown, we celebrate Karen Carpenter’s greatest songs—the ones that topped charts, won awards, and became the soundtrack of millions of lives. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering her magic, these songs showcase why Karen remains one of the most beloved vocalists of all time. So sit back, press play, and let the music take you back to a golden era of pure, heartfelt melodies. 🎶✨
1. (They Long to Be) Close to You (1970)
Few songs define romance as beautifully as “(They Long to Be) Close to You.” Released in 1970, this dreamy ballad became The Carpenters’ breakthrough hit, soaring to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and solidifying their place in music history. Written by the legendary duo Burt Bacharach and Hal David, the song had been recorded before, but it was Karen Carpenter’s angelic vocals that truly brought it to life. Her velvety, ethereal tone, combined with Richard Carpenter’s delicate arrangement of soft percussion, warm piano, and lush orchestration, created an intimate, heartwarming masterpiece. The song’s gentle melody and poetic lyrics evoke the feeling of longing and devotion, making it a timeless love song. It wasn’t just a hit—it became a signature piece for The Carpenters, establishing their signature sound: smooth, melodic, and deeply emotional. Even decades later, “(They Long to Be) Close to You” remains one of the most beloved romantic ballads ever recorded, its charm undiminished by time.
2. We’ve Only Just Begun (1970)
A song that speaks to fresh starts and hopeful beginnings, “We’ve Only Just Begun” became one of The Carpenters’ most iconic tracks after its release in 1970. Originally written by Paul Williams and Roger Nichols as a jingle for a bank commercial, the song caught Richard Carpenter’s attention, and he saw its potential as a full-length track. With Karen’s warm, soothing vocals delivering lyrics filled with optimism and promise, it quickly became a wedding staple. The song starts softly before building into a grand, sweeping chorus, its emotional depth growing with each note. The orchestration, featuring a gentle piano and a steady, uplifting rhythm, perfectly complements the theme of embarking on a new journey. The song’s message of love and togetherness struck a chord with audiences, earning it a Grammy nomination and a permanent place on soft rock playlists. “We’ve Only Just Begun” is more than just a song—it’s an anthem of love, commitment, and the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.
3. Rainy Days and Mondays (1971)
“Rainy Days and Mondays” is a song that perfectly captures the feeling of melancholy and introspection. Released in 1971, this deeply emotional ballad was penned by Paul Williams and Roger Nichols, the same songwriting duo behind “We’ve Only Just Begun.” Karen Carpenter’s voice carries a haunting beauty as she sings about loneliness and emotional struggles, making every note feel deeply personal. The song’s melancholic melody, paired with Richard Carpenter’s understated arrangement, turns sadness into something strangely comforting. The gentle combination of piano, strings, and soft percussion makes the song feel intimate, almost as if Karen is confiding in the listener. “Rainy Days and Mondays” resonated deeply with audiences, climbing to No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. It’s a testament to the universal nature of heartache, and the way The Carpenters could transform sorrow into something beautiful. Even today, the song remains one of their most poignant and relatable works.
4. Superstar (1971)
Longing, heartbreak, and unfulfilled love take center stage in “Superstar,” one of The Carpenters’ most hauntingly beautiful songs. Originally recorded by Delaney & Bonnie in 1969, the song was reinterpreted by The Carpenters in 1971, and Karen’s deeply emotive delivery turned it into the definitive version. Her voice is filled with quiet desperation as she tells the story of a fan yearning for a fleeting romance with a distant superstar. The minimalistic arrangement—featuring delicate piano, soft strings, and subtle orchestration—allows Karen’s vocals to shine, making the song feel intimate and deeply personal. The raw emotion she conveys, combined with the song’s aching melody, made “Superstar” an instant classic. It reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains one of Karen Carpenter’s most celebrated vocal performances.
5. Top of the World (1972)
If joy had a sound, it might just be “Top of the World.” Released in 1972 on their album A Song for You, the track wasn’t initially intended to be a single. However, overwhelming demand led to its official release in 1973, and it quickly soared to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Written by Richard Carpenter and John Bettis, the song is an upbeat, country-tinged celebration of love and happiness. Karen’s warm, soaring vocals perfectly match the song’s bright instrumentation, making it an uplifting anthem that continues to bring smiles to listeners’ faces. The cheerful lyrics and catchy melody make “Top of the World” a favorite at celebrations and singalongs, proving that sometimes, the simplest expressions of joy resonate the most.
6. Yesterday Once More (1973)
Few songs capture the power of nostalgia quite like “Yesterday Once More.” Released in 1973, this heartfelt track is a tribute to the golden era of music, reflecting on the joy of hearing beloved songs on the radio. Written by Richard Carpenter and John Bettis, the melody is both wistful and comforting, creating an atmosphere of longing for days gone by. Karen’s voice is particularly moving, filled with a tenderness that makes every lyric feel deeply personal. The song became an instant classic, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and solidifying its place as one of The Carpenters’ most enduring hits. “Yesterday Once More” serves as a reminder of how music can transport us back in time, bringing back cherished memories with just a few notes.
7. Sing (1973)
Originally written by Joe Raposo for Sesame Street, “Sing” found new life when The Carpenters recorded their own version in 1973. Richard Carpenter saw potential in its simple yet uplifting message and transformed it into a full-fledged pop hit. Featuring a children’s choir, the song radiates innocence and joy, while Karen’s gentle, encouraging vocals make it feel like a warm embrace. Though it was a slight departure from their usual style, “Sing” resonated with audiences of all ages, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100. It remains a beloved classic, reminding listeners of the pure joy that music can bring.
8. For All We Know (1971)
This heartfelt ballad, originally written for the 1970 film Lovers and Other Strangers, became one of The Carpenters’ most beloved songs when they recorded it in 1971. Written by Fred Karlin, Robb Royer, and Jimmy Griffin, “For All We Know” carries a poignant message about embracing love in the moment. Karen’s delicate yet powerful delivery, paired with an elegant orchestral arrangement, creates an atmosphere of timeless romance. The song won an Academy Award for Best Original Song, further cementing its status as a classic. Over the years, it has remained a favorite at weddings and romantic occasions, a testament to its enduring beauty.
9. Only Yesterday (1975)
Released in 1975, “Only Yesterday” is one of The Carpenters’ most vibrant tracks, blending their signature soft rock sound with a fresh, contemporary feel. Written by Richard Carpenter and John Bettis, the song’s upbeat melody contrasts with its introspective lyrics, which reflect on past heartbreak and newfound hope. Karen’s vocals shine as she effortlessly conveys both vulnerability and resilience. The song became a top 10 hit, proving that The Carpenters could evolve with the times while staying true to their melodic roots.
10. I Won’t Last a Day Without You (1972)
Recorded in 1972 for their album A Song for You, “I Won’t Last a Day Without You” was later released as a single in 1974 and became another fan favorite. Written by Paul Williams and Roger Nichols, this tender ballad is a heartfelt ode to love and emotional support. Karen’s warm, intimate vocals make the lyrics feel deeply personal, while the soft instrumentation provides a sense of comfort and reassurance. The song reached the Billboard Top 20, reinforcing The Carpenters’ ability to turn simple, heartfelt lyrics into timeless masterpieces.
Samuel Moore is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
