Karen Carpenter's Vocals On '(They Long To Be) Close To You' Are Simply Chillin

You’ll want to listen to this version of the 1970 hit. The Carpenters released this song in 1970 on their second album titled Close To You. 

We’ve sung this song's lyrics for over half a century now. "Why do birds suddenly appear every time you are near? Just like me, they long to be close to you. Just like me, they long to be close to you.” 

It’s one of the sweetest and most honest love songs ever written. This song version is synonymous with Karen Carpenter’s voice and her gift of music. Did you know it had been written by the extraordinary Burt Bacharach and his partner Hal David? 

A&M Records' owner Herb Alpert also recorded a version of the song himself, but he wasn’t too keen on the romantic lyrics. However, it did not become a hit in the U.S. until Burt invited the Carpenters to try their musical ideas to record the song and re-release it under the Carpenter band. 

This ode to love was originally played with brass horns, guitars, and drums, creating a jazzy feel to it. But we love this stripped-down version of the song with Karen’s beautiful voice and the simplicity of the lyrics. Upon its release in 1970, it quickly topped the Billboard charts in the U.S. and eventually around the world. The song then earned the Carpenters three Grammys. 

Later, other well-known singers like Frank Sinatra, Stevie Wonder, and The Cranberries gave the song a go. Yet, it will always and forever remain a song tied to The Carpenters. Tell us what you think of this simple version of the song that focuses on Karen’s chilling and hauntingly beautiful version of the song. Music is one of the greatest gifts God has blessed us with. 

God created us with the ability to sing and make music. It is also an important part of worship and praise to God, so it only seems fitting that we also sing about love too. May this walk down memory lane with The Carpenters be an enjoyable experience. 

“My heart, O God, is steadfast, my heart is steadfast; I will sing and make music,” Psalm 57:7. 

Photo Courtesy: Net Music 'Vocals Only' Videos
Originally published on GodTube. Used with permission.