About the song
“(They Long to Be) Close to You” by The Carpenters is one of the most beloved and timeless songs of the 1970s. Released in 1970, this track became a defining moment for the brother-sister duo, Richard and Karen Carpenter, catapulting them to international fame. The song was written by the legendary songwriting duo Burt Bacharach and Hal David, known for their ability to craft sophisticated, emotive pop melodies.
“Close to You” was included on The Carpenters’ second studio album, Close to You, which showcased the group’s soft, melodic style that would become their signature sound. The song itself is a perfect example of that style, featuring Karen Carpenter’s warm, velvety vocals and Richard Carpenter’s lush arrangements, complete with a gentle orchestral backing that accentuates the song’s romantic mood.
When “Close to You” was released as a single in May 1970, it quickly soared to the top of the charts. It spent four weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and became one of the biggest hits of the year. The song’s success was not limited to the United States; it also reached the top ten in several other countries, further establishing The Carpenters as global pop sensations.
Critically acclaimed and adored by fans, “Close to You” received numerous accolades, including a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Performance by a Duo, Group, or Chorus. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its simplicity and heartfelt lyrics, which express a longing and love that resonates across generations. Karen Carpenter’s vocal delivery, with its pure, emotive quality, turns the song into an intimate, almost personal experience for the listener.
Over the years, “Close to You” has become synonymous with The Carpenters and remains one of their most iconic songs. It has been covered by numerous artists and continues to be a staple of soft rock and easy listening playlists. For many, it evokes a sense of nostalgia, taking them back to a time when The Carpenters’ gentle sound provided a comforting and soothing presence on the airwaves.
In the annals of pop music history, “Close to You” stands out as a classic, a song that captures the essence of The Carpenters’ unique charm and enduring appeal. Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or the hundredth, it’s a song that never fails to touch the heart.