About The Song
(They Long to Be) Close to You is a song written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David. It was first recorded by Richard Chamberlain in 1963, but it became a major hit when it was released by The Carpenters in 1970. The song topped the charts in the United States, Canada, and Australia, and it reached number six in the United Kingdom.
The Carpenters’ version of “(They Long to Be) Close to You” is a beautiful and moving ballad. Karen Carpenter’s vocals are soft and expressive, and Richard Carpenter’s piano playing is simple and elegant. The song’s lyrics are about the desire for love and companionship.
“(They Long to Be) Close to You” has been covered by many artists, including Dionne Warwick, Dusty Springfield, and Elvis Presley. However, The Carpenters’ version remains the definitive recording. The song is a classic of easy listening music, and it continues to be enjoyed by people of all ages.
The Carpenters were an American vocal and instrumental duo consisting of siblings Karen (1950-1983) and Richard Carpenter (born 1946). They were one of the most successful musical acts of the 1970s, with their soft pop sound appealing to a wide audience.
Karen Carpenter had a distinctive contralto voice, and Richard Carpenter was a talented arranger and pianist. The Carpenters’ music was often characterized by lush orchestration and catchy melodies. Their biggest hits included “(They Long to Be) Close to You”, “We’ve Only Just Begun”, “Top of the World”, and “Yesterday Once More”.
The Carpenters’ success came at a price. Karen Carpenter struggled with anorexia nervosa throughout her career, and she died from complications of the disease in 1983. Richard Carpenter continued to make music, but he never achieved the same level of success without his sister.
Despite the personal tragedies they faced, The Carpenters’ music continues to be enjoyed by millions of people around the world. Their songs are timeless and heartwarming, and they provide a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
In addition to its commercial success, “(They Long to Be) Close to You” has also been praised by critics. The song was nominated for a Grammy Award for Record of the Year in 1971, and it was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1998. In 2004, “(They Long to Be) Close to You” was ranked number 49 on Rolling Stone magazine’s list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.
The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its quality. “(They Long to Be) Close to You” is a beautiful and moving ballad that continues to touch the hearts of listeners around the world.