About the song
“Solitaire” by The Carpenters is one of the duo’s most poignant and emotionally rich songs, showcasing the melancholy beauty that Karen Carpenter’s voice was so well known for. Originally written by Neil Sedaka and Phil Cody, the song was first recorded by Sedaka in 1972, but it was The Carpenters’ version that truly captivated listeners when they released it on their 1975 album Horizon.
The song’s lyrics paint a picture of loneliness and regret, with the metaphor of solitaire reflecting the isolation of someone who’s pushed love away. Karen Carpenter’s delivery of the song brings out its deep sadness and sense of loss. Her soft, soulful voice perfectly captures the essence of the song’s message—of a love that was neglected and now can never be regained. Richard Carpenter’s delicate arrangement, full of lush orchestration, complements Karen’s voice and underscores the emotional weight of the song.
“Solitaire” was released as a single in 1975, and though it didn’t reach the top of the charts like some of their other hits, it still managed to chart respectably, peaking at No. 17 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S. and reaching the Top 10 in Canada. Despite not being one of their highest-charting singles, “Solitaire” has become a beloved track in the Carpenters’ catalog, appreciated for its haunting beauty and Karen’s unparalleled vocal performance.
For fans of The Carpenters, “Solitaire” is a song that resonates deeply and reflects the emotional complexity that made the duo so enduring. If you haven’t yet heard this stunning ballad, now is the perfect time to listen to it and explore more of the Carpenters’ music. Karen’s voice remains one of the most iconic in pop music history, and this song is a prime example of why her legacy endures.