Sedaka leaves behind a very impressive line of hits including his own comeback record Laughter in the Rain and perhaps most famously as songwriter for Captain & Tennille's ubiquitous Love Will Keep Us Together.
(Photograph by David Refern.)
February 27, 2026
Goodbye Neil Sedaka
February 25, 2026
The Return of Scrubs and How Disneyland's Haunted Mansion Affected Its Set Design
It's time for Scrubs to return to TV! Tonight- and tomorrow at Disney+/Hulu, the perennial favorite returns. But I bet you didn't know that Disneyland's Haunted Mansion played a very key role in part of the set design for the series. (Love the concept art, by the way!) It's quite an interesting story. Zach Braff takes a look at it all in this very cool clip from Architectural Digest right here.
(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)
February 23, 2026
Imagineer Dorothea Redmond's Beautiful Concept Art for Cinderella Castle
(Concept art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)
Audio-Animatronic Olaf Teaches Us to Draw at Disney's Hollywood Studios
Coming at the end of Summer this year, an Audio-Animatronic Olaf, the lovable snowman from Frozen, will be teaching guests of all ages how to draw animated characters. You'll find him inside the refreshed Magic of Disney Animation, the courtyard that was once home to Star Wars characters. This is a more fitting use of that space now that Galaxy's Edge is open. I can't tell you how happy this change makes me! In a season where the last couple of years Disney Imagineering- the executives actually- were reducing if not eliminating the number of Audio-Animatronic in the parks, I never thought I'd see a small attraction use one. Good job, Disney! Smart move in your part!
(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)
February 20, 2026
Solo Mio- The Fun in Getting There
Matt's journey of self-discovery leads to an encounter with a local coffee shop owner in Rome, a charming and feisty- but in a lovely way- Gia, played by a great Nicole Grimaudo. Going in, I was asking myself if The Chosen's Jonathan Roumie could play anyone other than Jesus. (Weren't many of us if we're honest?) The answer is "Yes", and his character is so against type that you forget him in his much more famous role.
Need a date night but have some young teens with you? No worries. There's little to fret over and no need to make them close their eyes at any point. Solo Mio is family friendly without losing its edge. Go see this movie while it is in theaters if nothing else to capture the beautiful Italian landscapes on the big screen. But if you wait, just make sure you see it. There's not a misstep to be found from beginning to end!
One More Goodbye
February 19, 2026
Piston Peak's Older, More Rustic Cousin: Disneyland's Rainbow Ridge
Piston Peak is sure to remain the Magic Kingdom's most hotly debated addition. Replacing Rivers of America- an opening day feature of the original castle park and one that held Walt Disney's beloved riverboat- was an announcement that brought a hush and even some boos to D23. Deservedly so.
Bringing the modern day Cars franchise into Frontierland. It wasn't blasphemy, but it was close. This was far worse than replacing Splash Mountain with Tiana's Bayou Adventure.
Above is a vintage Rainbow Ridge Postcard from Disneyland's golden days when the man himself was still around to provide real vision for the park he loved. As the gateway to something fantastic, this area not only contained the Mine Train Thru Natures Wonderland, it also held the Conestoga Wagons and the Pack Mule train.
It was truly a land of discovery filled with rustic scenes, animals native to the American West, and the show stopping Rainbow Caverns as grand finale to the mine train ride. This was the Americana version of the Jungle Cruise as designed by Imagineer Marc Davis. The whole thing was even more special as right across the river was Tom Sawyer Island, a special placed designed for open exploration and a chance to use the imagination God gave us.
Proving great ideas never go to waste, modern Imagineering borrowed from the Mine Train finale to add a taste of vintage Disneyland to Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. I'm grateful for that, and I look forward to the change. But it does makes me long for a simpler day when Disney suits realized the parks were about much more than promotion for the company's Intellectual Property.
February 18, 2026
Then A Girl, Now A Woman
(Photograph copyright Mark Taft.)
February 16, 2026
The Pokemon Cafe
Faking Me Out
February 14, 2026
Happy Valentine's Day to My One True Love
February 12, 2026
Notable and Quotable: Michael Eisner
“I'm not wild about the fact that it is so expensive now to go to Disneyland or Disney World.”
Michael Eisner, Former CEO of The Walt Disney Company
Neither are we, Michael. And this is only the beginning of what he has to say to Graham Bensinger of In Depth.
Should we even care about what Eisner says? Yes, and incoming leader Josh D'Amaro should pat attention. Eisner's the man who brought a second golden age to Disney animation as well as theme parks. Think The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin and The Lion King. On the park/ themed entertainment side, he brought us Disney-MGM Studios, Disney's Animal Kingdom, Pleasure Island and Euro Disney aka Disneyland Paris. This all includes Splash Mountain, Star Tours, and the Indiana Jones Adventure attractions among many others. (Yes, he brought us Disney California Adventure, but I'll forgive him for that, since he also brought Tokyo DisneySea!)
Watch this segment of the interview below:
Rebuilding the 70's
Barry Manilow was an artist I didn't expect to purchase, but the deal was too good to pass up, and it was nice to have so many hits on one disc. Same with Lionel Richie and his hit album Can't Slow Down. It holds up pretty well after all these years. Not great, but well.
The last find of the day was Paul Simon's greatest hits collection. After a good listen, I came to an interesting conclusion: Yes, he's a great songwriter, but as a performer, he is better on the upbeat numbers where his voice doesn't matter so much. On the slower songs- like Still Crazy After All These Years, Something So Right, and I Do It For Your Love, the weakness of it becomes evident. He needs someone else to interpret for maximum effectiveness.
Bonus point- these discs were very inexpensive. I walked out with the whole lot for less than $25. Guess it's time to keep rebuilding my collection!
February 10, 2026
Announcing Walt Disney World: Three Retro/VintageTravel Posters
Ah, the earliest beginnings of Walt Disney World! The thrill of anticipation! That first visit. Going from the Transportation and Ticket Center to the Magic Kingdom! Should we take the monorail or the ferry boat? Watching the horizon along the shores of the Seven Seas Lagoon and daydreaming of staying at the Polynesian Village Resort.
It was just as enchanting entering the Magic Kingdom, wasn't it? Seeing Cinderella Castle at the end of Main Street U.S.A. for the first time. Exploring a whole new world with Florida exclusives like the playful Country Bear Jamboree, the nostalgic and sentimental Mickey Mouse Revue, and the inspiring Hall of Presidents- in its brand new land, Liberty Square.
It was a BIG deal for Disney to come to Florida! We forget sometimes, just how big this was. Imagine a whole new world built from scratch in the swamplands where there was once nothing at all. Real magic was created through hard work, dedication, and ultimately, imagination.
Let's take a look at these retro / vintage Disney World and Florida travel posters used to promote this new place of wonder and fun!
The Delta Airlines poster at top is one that has found its place in my office. It's just iconic, isn't it? Love the original colors of the castle, and I'm thrilled they are returning.
The generic "Orlando" poster from National Airlines (may it rest in peace) gets their castle from Disneyland, not the Florida one. Perhaps it is unofficial and therefore, they had to do it this way. While this one is nice as well, it's definitely third place among this trio.
The winner is clearly this one! Eastern Air Lines, being the official airline of the resort focused on the entire Vacation Kingdom. The sunset red poster did not feature its sponsored attraction, If You Had Wings, because it wouldn't open until a couple of years later. Mickey gets trips billing but so do some birds from the Tropical Serenade (aka Enchanted Tiki Room), the Haunted Mansion, 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, and the Contemporary Resort.
October 1971 brought a whole new world into existence. The future plans of the suits and Imagineers made sure the future looked bright. And it was, wasn't it?
(Art copyright the Walt Disney Company and National,Delta, and Eastern airlines.)
February 8, 2026
25 Years of Disney California Adventure? Looking Back at a Disastrous Past
The original souvenir map.
I really wasn't expecting to be as shocked as I was. Could it really be as cheap looking as they say? Certainly, Disney CEO Michael Eisner wouldn't build something on par with Six Flags next to the original and perhaps greatest Magic Kingdom!
Opening the park guide map revealed
a small park with cheap carnival attractions and retread films from Walt Disney World.
a small park with cheap carnival attractions and retread films from Walt Disney World.
One of the most creative parts of the park.
Seeing the entrance to the park from the Esplanade, I wasn't sure I got what they were going for. Even if the tile work work beautifully done in places, a cheap knockoff of the Golden Gate Bridge just felt out of place. Going in for a closer look, I was even more confused.
Just inside the gates.
Disney must have scored huge discounts on corrugated metal.
It was everywhere.
Peeking through the park gates, it just screamed fast and cheap. Very un-Disney. What had they done? This tacky area was the one the suits wanted to show as a preview of what the park would hold? Certainly, the suits had lost their minds. What exactly were they smoking in my Colorado mountains when they planned this park to replace of the originally planned Westcot?
I walked in and hoped for the best.
Yes sir, the stores along the Sunshine Plaza entry street looked "hip and trendy" and just like any other theme park- but not a Disney one. Corrugated steel sides, lots of very loud neon and not a bit of warmth and charm. Clearly the targeted look was something that would appeal to teens going into Hot Topic. Limited audience at best. It had to get better than this, didn't it?
Unfortunately, what I found for myself was true to what I'd read. The park was a reuse of other Disney attractions from Florida, far too many films, and a heavy dose of pure and simple carnival rides. There were only three noteworthy attractions and a whole bunch of "What the Hell were they thinking?" additions. Certainly, the executives had lost their minds. Certainly, the Imagineering team was embarrassed by the end result, and most certainly, the suits were now taking their guests' loyalty for granted.
Just ahead of the entry was the golden, gilded sun icon including a very nice fountain around it. I thought the sculpture to be pleasant, but as the landmark icon for the new park, it fell flat.
The main drag was no Main Street U.S.A. It was diminutive at best and quickly led guests into an entry into the park's other areas. The surprise to be found was the rather elegant and old school California Zephyr train. It housed another store (naturally), but it also held a clever coffee shop where they roasted the beans on site. Giving the whole entry area a burnt smell that I found either very intriguing or rather distracting depending on my mood. But I loved the train itself. I even think Walt Disney would have loved it being in the park. Of course, since this was California Adventure, guests couldn't ride it, they could only walk in and make a purchase.
Then president Paul Pressler filled the park with highly detailed shops that reflected his retail preferences. Restaurants were also well themed and even quite expensive. Somehow, the real stars- the attractions themselves- were bare bones and a secondary experience in his eyes. He'd forgotten exactly why guests went to Disney.
The first fully desert themed land in a Disney park.
Straight ahead was Condor Flats and the park's best and centerpiece attraction Soarin' Over California.
A rather plain but fitting exterior.
As they say, the pickings were slim, but the attraction was (and may still be) the best in the park. At the time, it was the new park's only true "E" Ticket. The Imagineers selected the perfect scenery to represent California, and the ride mechanism couldn't fit the attraction any better. I have to admit I got a little misty eyed flying over the state I grew up in. Nostalgia of a different kind than Disney is normally known for. As far as Disneyland's younger sister park went, it was mostly downhill from there.
GRR, somedays brr...
Moving on and with it warming up a bit, I was ready for a ride on Grizzly River Run. With a beautiful setting, I was expecting another true headliner, but without the expected but never delivered Audio-Animatronics, it's a solid "D Ticket" at best.
Still a Disney girl deep down.
Tons better than Animal Kingdom's Kali River Rapids, though. A more complete and lengthier experience.
One of my favorite photographs of the park at opening.
This section of the park is one of its most beautiful areas. It also is the one with the views from the overpriced Grand Californian Resort. As a day visitor, there's still geysers, waterfalls, dense forests and hidden paths to explore. We then headed into what looked like San Francisco. What a misfire and an insult to the very beautiful city it's supposed to represent.
What the small walkway led to is the worst land in any Disney park ever: "Paradise" Pier.
Was this Disney or did I stumble into some alternate universe?
Just as certainly as the suits had forgotten what a Disney park was all about, the Imagineers had to be sorely embarrassed by what they were allowed to build. Barry Braverman was over the project. The great Tim Delaney, who had done such incredible work for EuroDisney aka Disneyland Paris was put in charge of the new park's carnival themed land, so he had to make the best of a bad decision. Fortunately, the faux wooden coaster that defined the land, California Screamin', was a hit due to his great engineering. To make matters even worse, they were placed front and center to promote their work in Disney promotional pieces.
New lows in Imagineering design!
There seemed to be a sale on vinyl as well.
What I found for myself was true to what I'd read. The park was a reuse of other Disney attractions from Florida, far too many films, and a heavy dose of pure and simple carnival rides. There were only three noteworthy attractions and a whole bunch of "What the Hell were they thinking?" additions. Certainly, the executives had lost their minds. Certainly, the Imagineering team was embarrassed by the end result, and most certainly, the suits were now taking their guests' loyalty for granted.
Aside from a wide range of flat rides, there was a row of cheap looking carnival games and the park's greater thrill ride, California Screamin'. And what a great, smooth, coaster it is! It's not really unthemed because of where it is placed, but it did take me awhile to get used to everything being exposed. (For the record, the move to Incredicoaster was a downgrade in the overall experience.)
A "love letter" to California's farmers.
This structure is now in Paradise Gardens.
(This photo is from a later trip.
Notice the new theming based on A Bug's Life
and Twilight Zone Tower of Terror in the background.)
We liked the look of Pacific Wharf, but we were surprised to find it really was just a well themed food court, albeit one with great food. A bakery and tortilla tour masquerading as attractions? Laughable.
Next up was The Golden State, the area of the park that was to most strongly represent the culture of California. The main attraction was Golden Dreams, a look at its history. This was another place where the budget for the park was cut, and it is very obvious to anyone paying attention. The presentation was originally to elements similar to the American Adventure at Epcot, but instead ended up being a glorified film. It wasn't a bad show, but without the Audio-Animatronics to ground it, the attraction certainly wasn't even close to repeatable. In addition, if you're not a fan of actress Whoopi Goldberg, you probably won't like she plays the main character.
Nor will you like that Whoopi appears in not one but two attractions at California Adventure. Where? The Hollywood Pictures Backlot.
a strange stage show, and the worst attraction ever built.
Superstar Limo is the strangest attraction to ever be built at a Disney park. It represented everything wrong with California Adventure. Imagine running into Hollywood celebrities with distorted faces while you try to reach a premier where you end up being the star that is celebrated. Whoopi is there as is Tim Allen, Jackie Chan, Cher, Drew Carey and a long list of mainly B list types. It's snarky and full of industry inside jokes if you're part of the messed up Hollywood scene. Thankfully, the attraction was short-lived due to the fact it became the laughing stock of themed attractions as did the newest Disney park itself.
What did we see that we liked in this weird little park? Well, Eureka was truly a great parade. Puppets, performers on trampolines and roller skates and pogo sticks, made it a high energy presentation we really enjoyed. Almost Epcot like. Well almost. Only the oh-so-trendy theme song revealed what the park really wanted to be, and frankly, that was something that we just did not like. The Animation area was very well done, but a great mid-level attraction is not enough. I particularly enjoyed the Seasons of the Vine film.
My daughter's assessment proved how well she understood the art of Imagineering: "It's like they forgot what made Disneyland great in the first place!" I could not have said it any better.
Dinosaur Jack's Glasses of Distinction, actually.
We left the park after about 4 hours, and even that included a leisurely lunch. We went to Guests Services to explain our disappointment in paying a full price for a cheapened experience. We were not expecting what happened next. Without us asking, we were offered tickets to Disneyland free of charge for the rest of the day. We jumped on it. I'd find out later this was the standard offer for other guests expressing their displeasure.
We went home after visiting Disneyland, so thankful that the original and best Imagineers had designed the place under Walt's leadership. My father in law was glad I had him hold off, saving him time and money.
My daughter and I told our tales of California Adventure, but it led to a surprise: My ten year old son was now certain he had to visit the park!
WHAT??
What a difference a few days and a few years can make. As a ten year old boy, his thoughts on the park were vastly different. Very different likes and perspective than his sister. In fact, he loved the place. LOVED it.
We got there about a half hour before opening. At the time the gates opened, we were ready to go. Beginning our day with Soarin', it was a huge hit, and it still was with me. Then, time for a snack. Really, just coffee for me, and you can guess where we went. That beautiful little train was calling me. Next up was It's Tough to Be a Bug. Another hit. It seemed like it didn't fit the park in my mind, but for my son, it was just a fun film. No winery and no Seasons film because the thrills of Paradise Pier lured him in. On to the carnival! All the rides there were just taken in excitedly as part of the vibe. A huge serving of soft swirl ice cream was a must. The now long gone cement dinosaur was cool, very cool in fact. Even the quirky and cheap Mulholland Madness was something he loved. I still thought this part of the park was an ugly waste, but I didn't say so. He was having a great day already.
Grizzly River Run meant two rides in a row and one later that night. Riding in the evening is a whole different, much better experience. We spent some time at the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail, but we left as he was quickly bored. Lunch was darned good at the Lucky Fortune Cookery. He even found the Tortilla factory fun. Who doesn't love fresh and hot little cakes of goodness?
From climbing the C-A-L-I-F-O-R-N-I-A letters at the front of the park gates, to getting drenched on Grizzly, to three rides on Screamin' in a row- the last one without me (thank God!) and just about all we did in between, it was very different experience with my son.
Through his eyes, Eureka was a great parade. From flying cream pies in Muppets to more Bugs, each 3D film made him laugh. Superstar Limo, however, was not his favorite or even funny in his mind, proving even a ten year old can have good taste!
Pluto makes the day fun!
There it was! I had an enlightened thought. California Adventure was a "Ten Year Old Boy Park". He didn't want or care for great theming, layers of detail, or sophistication. He didn't miss the animatronics. He didn't miss the love put into designing the place. He just wanted to have fun. Although I could have just taken him to Knott's Berry Farm, I started to see the park through his eyes. My perspective on the park remained it was far from Disney's best work- perhaps its worst (that was until I saw Walt Disney Studios Paris for myself- but in spite of its shortcomings, we had a great time together.
It was just what the suits were hoping would happen, but this didn't mean everyone would come. The numbers were dismal, and change was on the horizon even after a couple of high profile additions.
What do I think of the park 25 years later? The addition of Cars Land and Buena Vista Street are fantastic and worthy of the Imagineering name. Since that, the place has unfortunately gone back to its old ways.
I'm not all that interested now. As a theme park fan, I will keep tabs on the place, but it will not get my hard earned money. I haven't returned since 2018. My daughter returned once in 2011. The last group of family that went- including my son who visited when he was ten- all else first timers in 2022, decided the park was not worth the money and not at all close to Disney quality.
Will I go back soon? Only if Coco is great! Otherwise, not until Pandora shows up- and even then, I might delay a visit.
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Want more Disney California Adventure? Here you go!
(Photographs copyright Mark Taft. Concept art and maps copyright The Walt Disney Company.)
February 7, 2026
Italy Comes to California
Do you love Italy? The food, the landscapes, the people? I sure do! It was during a tour of Napa and Sonoma, California, wine country, where we found a bit of Italian charm right outside our door. No, it's not Epcot (or even Westcot). Even the cloudy skies can't hide the charm!
The gorgeous Castello di Amorosa is a family owned winery. This beautiful plaza and its fortress walls were built from scratch. No, they weren't there before. The look was lovingly recreated from the minds of the family working with similarly minded architects and designers. The end result? Something you would easily find in those Tuscan hillsides thousands of miles away!
(Photograph copyright Mark Taft.)
February 6, 2026
Words Get in the Way
February 4, 2026
The Ultimate Guide: Ranking All the Carpenters Singles
Richard and Karen Carpenter had an incredible run on the Billboard 100 music charts and all over the world as well. When (They Long to Be) Close to You hit big in 1970, their sound was so unique and so compelling, the duo would build a career on its success. The hits slowed at the end of the decade, but the sheer sound of Karen's singing voice drew fans generation after generation even after her death on this day in 1983.
Each of their studio albums were unique works of art, almost thematic in the approach and presentation. (I rank them here.) The duo's singles were no less interesting, but the stakes were higher. Those shipped to radio are what earned them their audience, so Richard and Karen had to craft ear catching works of art in only a few minutes of space. They excelled and were ubiquitous for the decade. You almost couldn't turn on major AM radio (or open-mined FM stations) without hearing the hits or discreet album cuts.
In an era where you could either wait for songs on the radio or pay to own them, the Carpenters had an incredible run that sold millions of copies each, earning them 10 gold singles in the U.S. alone between 1970 and 1975. Internationally, they were superstars of the highest popularity, and their sales and sold out concerts reflected this love for their art.
Let's talk about the ranking before I begin doing so.
For ease of review and a much shortened article, I've left out all Christmas singles, releases from solo albums, and anything available from outside the U.S.A.
I won't give much chart data here as the details are covered in a more impactful way on my "Fresh Look / Revisited" album reviews, but I will toss in a few facts when relevant.
Lastly, this is a highly personal list, so although I will be as objective as possible, I can guarantee my choices will vary from those of you reading. You can read about each Carpenters album in great detail by clicking on the links at the end of this article. The first and second set of reviews differ in photos, content, and perspective being a decade apart.
Let's start the ranking from the bottom of the list. Feel free to leave me your thoughts and comments. Try not to read ahead...
29- Beechwood 4-5789, 1982
The final single from the Karen and Richard's 1981 Made in America comeback project. A weak, inferior attempt at capturing the magic of Please Mr. Postman many years later. By this point, she's too old to sing this juvenile material, the copycat arrangement is uninspired, and the end result justifiably lands it at the bottom of their barrel. Made an even worse video. For what its worth, The Marvelettes' original record wasn't any good either.
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28- Goofus, 1976
A pure "What were they thinking?" moment. Yes, Captain & Tennille had Muskrat Love out about the same time, but the husband and wife duo took more of a novelty act approach than the brother and sister team ever did. It's cute, and the harmonies are lovely, but replace this song on the A Kind of Hush album with Ordinary Fool (recorded at the same time) and a much stronger one takes shape. The damage this single did to their radio reputation was insurmountable.
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27- (Want You) Back in My Life Again, 1981
Again from the comeback attempt. Looking for a fresh sound, but copying the Doobie Brothers was not a new idea by the time it was recorded. Karen's too far back in the mix, and overall, the "harder" aspects of the record feel muted. It's got its moments, though. Nice sax break.
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26- Calling Occupants of Interplanetary Craft, 1977
An obvious cry for airplay and for wanting to be seen differently. Beautifully orchestrated and competently sung as always. It was a major hit in the U.K. and a Number One in Ireland, but these lyrics should never have been given to one of the greatest female vocalists that God ever created. Still, a very ambitious record.
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25- Make Believe It's Your First Time, 1983
The first single released after Karen's death. The lyrics are bittersweet and the song intimate. Then that choir pops in and kills the romantic mood, relegating this single to the Adult Contemporary charts and off pop radio. For a great version of this song with all the right moves you'd expect, listen to this same song from Karen's solo album- the one where Richard first heard it. Totally different experience.
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24- Ticket to Ride, 1969
The first single ever from the duo and a historical marker of sorts. Taking an upbeat Beatles classic and flipping it into a dark and somber ballad was creative genius back in 1969. The fully recut version found on the duo's The Singles 1969 - 1973 brings a much more melancholy and elegant recording. If I were ranking the 1973 version, it'd be much higher. Karen's new vocal is just astounding, showing a maturity earlier albums only hinted at. Richard's new production is the perfect touch to bring out its previously hidden majesty.
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23- I Believe You, 1978
After the adventurous singles from the Passage album, this late in the year record was their return to a more expected sound. Songwriters Don and Dick Addrisi give Karen some surprisingly sexual lyrics- and she sounds very convincing- but Paul Riser's orchestration of it all makes it old school but not in a good way. The drum line and a well timed break add to the drama of it all. Was it a good choice as a single? Debatable.
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22- Sing, 1973
Cute song, well done, and a hit. Yes, a gold single, and only Richard's brilliant work could make this kids sing a long memorable. But after the credibility earned by the magnificent Goodbye to Love that came just before it, this was a poorly timed creative setback.
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21- I Won't Last A Day Without You, 1974
Paul Williams and Roger Nichols gave the duo some of the best material of their career. This is one of them. Warm, tender, and well performed. When you go back to a song from 1972 to mine a "new single" in 1974, something's off. Was anyone from A&M watching out for their career or helping them find good material at this point in time?
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20- It's Going To Take Some Time, 1972
Really pleasant. But pleasant is not what you want from a single meant to promote a brand new album, especially one as spectacular as their fourth one, A Song For You. Beautiful flute, lovely stacked vocals, nice melody line and strong lyrics. Kudos to Richard for hearing this rather ordinary sounding Carole King number and turning it into something stronger than a forgotten album cut.
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19- Those Good Old Dreams, 1981
As I wrote out the chronological list of the duo's 45s and started ranking them, it took awhile to move past my first gut reactions from the ones I knew would be either at the top or the bottom of my ultimate guide. Once that was done, something interesting appeared: The duo's three country-tinged releases ended up together at the lower middle section of the pack. They're not horrible at all, but they're not as good compared to the rest of what was released. While not their strong suit, Karen and Richard created come stunning records in this genre, making for a great "Country Collection" should the suits ever decide to go there. This particular cut from Made in America ranks at the bottom of the three country flavored selections mainly because its strives to be like their biggest hit from 1973. Still pretty but much too soft for hit radio on any chart. A sentimental favorite at times, though.
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18- Sweet Sweet Smile, 1978
The third and last single from Passage. This was everything Those Good Old Dreams was not: snappy, a bit twangy, and totally fun. Honest to goodness banjo and fiddle highlight this strong Juice Newton / Otha Young number. Karen's vocals are bold, alive, and engaging. Always brings a smile to my face as I sing a long.
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17- Top of the World, 1973
Right song at the end of the right time. Fan reaction made Richard take another look at a song Lynn Anderson brought to the top of the country charts. He wrote it but couldn't recognize the hit potential, a problem that got much worse in years to come. When the cast of television's Friends sings it, you know the song is iconic for a reason. A Number One worldwide smash.
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16- Yesterday Once More, 1973
Another beloved Richard Carpenter / John Bettis composition for good reason. Wistful, dreamy, nostalgic. Often mentioned among their most powerful records, but honestly, it can be rather hit or miss. I have to be in the right mood for it. Karen hits the money notes right where you'd expect. The harmonies are lush, the words evoke better times from the past, and it all comes together so well. But there's something missing I can't put my finger on. Maybe it is just forever tied to the Now & Then album's Oldies Medley in my mind, so I can't separate it out and give it a fair evaluation. The timing of its release was just perfect, however, as the U.S. was at the beginning of its love affair with the oldies.
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15- All You Get From Love Is A Love Song, 1977
The hit single that got away for being two years too late. It's chances for a smash (or at least a Top Ten Pop hit) were destroyed by the career busting prior single Goofus. This song has absolutely everything going for it- joyful Karen vocal, punchy rhythm track (a solid beat!), horns o plenty, top notch vocal stacks, all with an outstanding sax solo by the great Tom Scott. What was missing? Open minded radio personnel, music fans, and better promotion from A&M.
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14- Touch Me When We're Dancing, 1981
The best and only song with hit potential on Made in America. They'd been absent too long by this point in time, and radio couldn't make up its mind on what to do with it. Everyone seemed to be watching everyone else. Say what you will about Richard's missteps on this album, but Touch Me When We're Dancing was perfectly arranged, produced, and recorded. Does it hold up to their greatest? No, of course not. Should it have been a bigger hit? Yes. Is it memorable? Definitely.
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13- Your Baby Doesn't Love You Anymore, 1984
Of the almost 30 tracks recorded for their comeback album, in a perfect world, this one would have replaced the one I ranked at the bottom of this list. Another Ruby & The Romantics remake, Richard hit the jackpot by remaking Hurting Each Other, so why not do it again. Instead, Your Baby was released on the first posthumous album in 1983. It's intimate, dramatic, and just so good. With a world weary maturity in her voice, Karen pulls off this number effortlessly, and Richard's backing vocals are just perfect. Really. An exceptional record by any measure.
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12- Please Mr. Postman, 1974
Getting closer to the Top Ten on this list comes the duo's last Number One in the States. Fans and critics alike love to slam this one, but on The Nation's Favourite Carpenters Songs, a U.K. only release, British fans ranked this as their top choice. It's just so much fun! The song's been recorded almost too many times to count, but Karen and Richard own this one.
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11- For All We Know, 1970
Admittedly, in years past, I've often overlooked this one. But recently, I have been won over by its gentle innocence and lack of pretension. Simple, unassuming and heartfelt in performance and production. Sheer class.
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Now for the Ten Best of all the Carpenters singles...
10- There's A Kind Of Hush (All Over The World), 1976
Karen and Richard trade Motown for this late 60's British Invasion hit. While most all of the Carpenters recordings were about love and relationships, very few were actually charming and romantic. This Herman's Hermits number from 1967 is my absolute favorite of the three obvious oldies remakes. Beechwood is a bust, and Postman is certainly the biggest hit, but for my money, Hush is the best of them all, and my personal choice as a "guilty pleasure". It's heavenly ear candy from start to finish. I knew the original and enjoyed it. Yet the first time I heard Karen caress the opening lyrics, I knew I'd be in for something good.
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9- Solitaire, 1975
A serious Neil Sedaka song and Karen Carpenter make an incredible combination thanks to Richard unlocking the key to what was far from perfect in less gifted hands. The list of previous attempts at getting this right was even longer than those who attempted They Long To Be Close to You. With so many choices to pull from, we could have been overtaken by a tangle of lyrics and less than perfect arrangements. But Richard's genius is in full display here. The end result is powerfully moody. Atmospheric. Storytelling at its best... and oh, those basement notes by Karen! Proving her rightful place at the top of all female vocalists past or present. With so many glorious songs on the duo's Horizon album, its hard to call this one the best of the lot, but a strong case could be made for it once you hear the last minute or so of this incredible recording.
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8- Superstar, 1971
Perhaps the Carpenters song critics most appreciate. The minute Leon Russell's mis-titled "Groupie" became a standard. The opening harp and oboe musical intro followed by Karen's deep, resonate vocals made everyone take notice at a new level. She had arrived. Richard believed this was the one that would make them be taken seriously as artists. In later remixes, he'd toy with his consummate arrangement, but the original recording remains the gold standard.
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7- I Need To Be In Love, 1976
In some ways a lesser record, but its power lies in how personal a recording. John Bettis wrote lyrics so deeply reflective of Karen's life at the time, she couldn't deny it. And she sings it with true heartbreak that soaks through Richard's beautiful melody. Understated piano accentuates the moment. I can even (mostly) forgive that OK Chorale interrupting his sister's prayer.
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6- Rainy Days and Mondays, 1970
I'll admit up front that I much prefer this to Superstar. It's just more realistic, more everyman. Perfectly arranged. Can you imagine any other instrument to replace that harmonica? No. Karen kills the lyrics and makes you believe every word. Again. An all time classic.
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5- Goodbye to Love, 1972
The bridge between eras. The searing guitar of a new sound slams against the wave of choir from early days. Desperate vocal resignation meets an unexpected but triumphant end. Redemption awaits as Hell is behind, and Heaven's ahead. Radio jocks were dumbstruck and fans even more. Their second masterpiece. Another landmark song of their career, following the magic Richard and Karen pulled off with their breakthrough hit. Sometimes, it is good to be shocked.
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4- (They Long To Be) Close To You, 1970
The taste of these too sugary, cringey lyrics could not erase the unique beauty of this Burt Bacharach number. When the boss says "Record this", you do it, and you find the hit that was hidden within. Mission accomplished. Richard creates the mood, and Karen coos the lyrics. Sometimes it's just that simple, although creating the masterpiece was not.
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3- Only Yesterday, 1975
"Modern" Carpenters. New logo and a new look. One note and you know who it is. One of my favorite openings ever. The anticipation to something great builds, and its fulfilled. Karen never sounded better than on this album. Richard's wall of sound and all those vocals stacks could go on forever- and I wish they would have. What a record!
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2- Hurting Each Other, 1971
"No one in the world ever had a love as sweet as my love." A cold opening matched with the warmest of lyrics sung in the tenderest of ways. The contrast draws the listener in as the singer moves toward the chorus. A&M Records delivered this new Carpenters song to radio just two days before Christmas. This new single from their upcoming 4th album wowed everyone with its drama, intimacy, and unexpected lyrical twist. Karen and Richard were so hot that their two previous albums were still on the charts. Hitting the Top Twenty in just 3 weeks time, Hurting Each Other was the whole package. This is the one to play if you want to fall in love with Karen's voice all over again.
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1- We've Only Just Begun, 1970
It's the Carpenters signature song for a reason. Simple piano and Karen's engaging vocals shine, setting up what is to come. Gone are the overly sweet lyrics of their earlier hit. In its place are real, honest, words. But there's more that make this record the top of them all. I want to point out that the power of the duo comes into play here- beyond Richard's skills as arranger and real producer. It his vocals on "We've only begun" then later on, "And yes, we've just begun" which set up the chorus so wonderfully. Karen is just magnificent, capturing a moment in time both innocent and alluring. This is not a solo number. You can hear Richard confidently play his vocal part, and the record is better for it. Musically, his tasteful arrangement allows space for the impact of each lyric, each instrument. It's uncluttered yet full and rich. The perfect signature tune to be remembered by in 3 minutes time.
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A career built, a legacy established, a life cut short way too soon. I've been considering what I'll leave behind. It's never too early to think about it or too late to change.
And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment, so Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear
a second time, not to deal with sin
but to save those who are eagerly waiting for him.
Hebrews 9:27-28
(Disclaimer: The image used at the top of this article is an AI generated image that came from a real photo session. Love it or hate it, yes, AI is getting that good.)
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This is part of a continuing series on the music of Karen and Richard Carpenter. There are so many stand alone posts highlighting different aspects of their career, recordings, rare photographs, and life that I've lost count.
Below is the list of my "Revisited /Fresh Look" reviews of each album and then my initial ones a decade earlier. Each have different photos, perspectives, and clippings.
My Revisited / Fresh Look at the albums:
Made in America (Coming soon!)
My Initial Reviews of the albums:
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