Carpenters – “(They Long to Be) Close to You” (1970)

(They Long to Be) Close to You, simply known as “Close to You,” is a timeless ballad by the brother-sister duo Carpenters. Released in 1970, it became their signature song, propelling them to international fame and solidifying their place in soft rock history.

Background

• Songwriting and Origin: “Close to You” wasn’t originally written for the Carpenters. It was the first collaboration between legendary songwriting team Burt Bacharach and Hal David that the Carpenters covered. Previously, other artists had recorded the song in the 1960s without much success.
• Recording and Production: Karen Carpenter’s distinctive vocals and Richard Carpenter’s lush orchestral arrangements breathed new life into the song. Karen’s delicate yet powerful voice perfectly captured the emotions of yearning and adoration expressed in the lyrics. Richard’s arrangement, featuring piano, strings, and a tasteful flute solo, complemented the melody beautifully.
• Album: “Close to You” became the title track for the Carpenters’ second studio album, released in 1970. The album was a massive commercial success, reaching number one in Canada and number two on the US Billboard 200 chart. Other hits on the album included “We’ve Only Just Begun” and “Rainy Days and Mondays.”

Musical Style

• Genre: “Close to You” is classified as soft rock, a genre that emerged in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Soft rock blended elements of pop, rock, and adult contemporary music, creating a mellower and more melodic sound compared to traditional rock.
• Instrumentation: The song features a prominent piano melody played by Richard Carpenter. Lush strings create a warm and inviting atmosphere. A tasteful flute solo adds a touch of whimsy and elegance. Karen Carpenter’s vocals are the centerpiece, delivered in her signature smooth and controlled style.
• Harmony and Melody: The melody of “Close to You” is simple yet memorable. It relies on a catchy chorus that is easy to sing along to. The song features beautiful vocal harmonies by Karen and Richard, a hallmark of the Carpenters’ sound.

Lyrics

• Theme: The lyrics of “Close to You” express feelings of intense admiration and longing for a loved one. The singer uses whimsical metaphors to describe the all-encompassing nature of their affection. Birds appear and stars fall down whenever the beloved is near. The lyrics also suggest that the object of affection is someone special and admired by everyone.
• Figurative Language: The song is rich in figurative language, particularly similes and metaphors. Lines like “Why do birds suddenly appear?/ Every time you are near” and “Why do stars fall down from the sky?/ Every time you walk by” use vivid imagery to express the overwhelming emotions of the singer.
• Structure: The lyrics follow a simple verse-chorus structure. The chorus, with its catchy melody and repeated lines of “Close to you,” is the most memorable part of the song.

Cultural Impact

• Charts and Accolades: “Close to You” became a major hit for the Carpenters. It reached number one on the Billboard Easy Listening chart and peaked at number four on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song earned the Carpenters two Grammy nominations for Record of the Year and Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals.
• Legacy: “Close to You” is considered one of the Carpenters’ most iconic songs. It has been covered by numerous artists across various genres, a testament to its enduring popularity. The song is often used in movies, television shows, and commercials, further solidifying its place in pop culture. “Close to You” is also a popular choice for weddings and other romantic occasions.
• Soft Rock Influence: The song’s success helped solidify the sound of soft rock in the early 1970s. The Carpenters, along with artists like Bread and America, became pioneers of the genre, paving the way for future generations of soft rock artists.

Conclusion

(They Long to Be) Close to You is more than just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone. The Carpenters’ masterful blend of soft melodies, beautiful vocals, and heartfelt lyrics created a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners today. “Close to You” secured the Carpenters’ place in music history and continues to be a beloved song for generations of music lovers.