Title: “(They Long To Be) Close To You” by The Carpenters: A Timeless Classic
Meta Description: Discover the magic behind “(They Long To Be) Close To You,” the iconic song by The Carpenters. Learn about its history, significance, and why it remains a timeless classic in music history.
Introduction
Released in 1970, “(They Long To Be) Close To You” became one of The Carpenters’ most iconic songs. With its unforgettable melody and heartfelt lyrics, it not only captured the hearts of millions but also solidified The Carpenters as one of the most beloved pop duos of the 1970s. In this blog post, we will explore the history of the song, its lyrics, and its lasting impact on the music industry.
The Story Behind the Song
“(They Long To Be) Close To You” was written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David, two of the most renowned songwriters of the 20th century. The song was initially written for Dionne Warwick, but it was The Carpenters’ rendition that made it a global hit.
The Carpenters, consisting of siblings Karen and Richard Carpenter, recorded the song in 1970, and it was released as the first single from their debut album Close to You. The song quickly gained popularity, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and it became one of the defining songs of their career.
Lyrics and Meaning
The lyrics of “(They Long To Be) Close To You” convey a deep sense of longing and love. The central theme revolves around the desire to be close to a loved one and the joy that comes from their presence. The opening line, “Why do birds suddenly appear, every time you are near?” evokes a sense of magic and wonder, perfectly setting the tone for the rest of the song.
The song’s lyrics express a universal feeling of yearning, making it relatable to people of all ages. It captures the emotions that come with love and the desire to be with someone who makes the world feel brighter.
The Musical Arrangement
One of the key elements that made “(They Long To Be) Close To You” a timeless classic is its beautiful musical arrangement. Richard Carpenter, known for his exceptional skills as a pianist and arranger, crafted the orchestral background that perfectly complemented Karen Carpenter’s soulful and tender vocals.
The song features lush strings, a gentle piano melody, and soft percussion, creating an atmosphere of intimacy and warmth. Karen Carpenter’s voice, known for its smoothness and emotional depth, is the perfect vehicle for the song’s heartfelt lyrics. Her delivery of the line “Close to you” is tender and sincere, capturing the essence of longing and devotion.
The Impact and Legacy of “(They Long To Be) Close To You”
Since its release, “(They Long To Be) Close To You” has been covered by numerous artists and featured in various films, television shows, and commercials. The song’s universal theme of love and connection has made it a favorite among listeners of all generations.
The Carpenters’ version of the song is often credited with helping to define the pop music of the early 1970s. Their smooth, soft pop style became a hallmark of the era, and their music continues to influence artists today.
Karen Carpenter’s unique vocal style and Richard Carpenter’s production techniques set the duo apart from other musical acts of the time. Their harmonious blend of pop, easy listening, and light jazz elements made The Carpenters stand out as one of the most influential musical acts of their time.
Why “(They Long To Be) Close To You” Remains a Classic
There are several reasons why “(They Long To Be) Close To You” has endured for over five decades:
- Timeless Theme: The song’s theme of love and longing is universal and resonates with listeners across different eras.
- Memorable Melody: The song’s soft, melodic tune is instantly recognizable and has a soothing, calming effect.
- Emotional Vocal Performance: Karen Carpenter’s emotive vocals add a layer of depth and sincerity to the song, making it deeply relatable.
- Production Excellence: Richard Carpenter’s musical arrangements, with their lush orchestration and subtle instrumentation, create an atmospheric backdrop for the lyrics.
Conclusion
“(They Long To Be) Close To You” by The Carpenters remains a beloved classic more than 50 years after its release. The song’s emotional depth, beautiful melody, and timeless theme of love have made it a staple in the music world. Whether you’re listening to it for the first time or the hundredth, it’s a song that never fails to evoke strong emotions and remind us of the beauty of love and connection.
If you haven’t heard this classic hit yet, take a moment to listen to it—you’ll see why it continues to resonate with audiences around the world.
Lyrics: (They Long To Be) Close To You
Why do birds suddenly appear
Every time you are near?
Just like me,
They long to be
Close to you.Why do stars fall down from the sky
Every time you walk by?
Just like me,
They long to be
Close to you.On the day that you were born the angels got together
And decided to create a dream come true.
So, they sprinkled moon dust in your hair of gold
And star light in your eyes of blue.That is why all the girls in town
Follow you all around.
Just like me,
They long to be
Close to you.On the day that you were born the angels got together
And decided to create a dream come true.
So, they sprinkled moon dust in your hair of gold
And star light in your eyes of blue.That is why all the girls in town
Follow you all around.
Just like me,
They long to be
Close to you.Just like me,
They long to be
Close to you.Why? Close to you
Why? Close to you
Ha, close to you
Why? Close to you
