Introduction

CARPENTERS - Close to You [Vinyl] Carpenters - Amazon.com Music

Few songs evoke a sense of gentle longing and pure romantic adoration as beautifully as “Close to You” by The Carpenters. Released in 1970, this iconic ballad became an instant classic, its melody weaving a tapestry of heartfelt lyrics and Karen Carpenter’s signature velvety vocals. But the journey of this timeless tune began much earlier, born from a collaboration of musical minds and serendipitous encounters.

Songwriter Hal David penned the lyrics in 1963, initially titled “They Long to Be Close to You,” inspired by the wistful yearning he observed in everyday couples. The melody, however, remained elusive until years later. Composer Burt Bacharach, captivated by David’s words, stumbled upon the perfect tune during a spontaneous piano session in 1970. The duo promptly presented the song to Richard Carpenter, who, along with his sister Karen, had recently signed with their label.

Richard initially envisioned the song for Dionne Warwick, but Karen’s delicate yet expressive voice proved to be the perfect vessel for its message. Her tender delivery, infused with a touch of playful sweetness, breathed life into David’s poetic imagery. The Carpenters’ recording, with its lush orchestral arrangement and Richard’s understated piano accompaniment, transformed the song into a masterpiece.

“Close to You” captured the zeitgeist, resonating with a generation yearning for genuine connection in a world increasingly shrouded by turmoil. Its simple yet profound message of finding solace and joy in love’s embrace struck a chord with listeners of all ages. The song’s success was undeniable, topping charts worldwide, earning awards, and becoming a staple on wedding playlists and romantic serenades.

Today, “Close to You” endures as a timeless testament to the transformative power of love. Its gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics continue to touch hearts and inspire millions, reminding us that even in a world of fleeting connections, the desire for closeness and intimacy remains one of our most enduring aspirations.

With this introduction, I hope you are ready to delve deeper into the rich history and enduring magic of “Close to You.” Let the music wash over you and discover why this Carpenters classic continues to be a beacon of love and hope for generations.

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Lyrics

Why do birds suddenly appearEvery time you are near?Just like me, they long to beClose to you
Why do stars fall down from the skyEvery time you walk by?Just like me, they long to beClose to you
On the day that you were born the angels got togetherAnd decided to create a dream come trueSo they sprinkled moon dust in your hair of gold and starlight in your eyes of blue
That is why all the girls in townFollow you all aroundJust like me, they long to beClose to you
On the day that you were born the angels got togetherAnd decided to create a dream come trueSo they sprinkled moon dust in your hair of gold and starlight in your eyes of blue
That is why all the girls in townFollow you all aroundJust like me, they long to beClose to you
Just like me, they long to beClose to you
Wa, close to youWa, close to youHa, close to youLa, close to you
Wa, close to youWa, close to youHa, close to you