On a perfect drive to the beach, I'd be cruising in my convertible down Pacific Coast Highway with the radio blasting the Top 40 songs from 93 KHJ Los Angeles. What were your summer songs? Those days are long ago, but it doesn't mean you can't have your own Summer playlist to bring those memories back. Of course, for me, it's yesterday once more when the songs of Richard and Karen Carpenter are on. Sure, the duo's known for their beautiful melancholy songs which play magnificently against her rich voice. BUT don't let the great documentary Karen Carpenter Starving for Perfection by Randy Schmidt make you think it was all doom and gloom. The Carpenters had plenty of great tunes that were happy, upbeat, and playful. Here's a few of my 2024 Summer Playlist songs, those Golden Oldies that make me smile (in no particular order):
There's a Kind of Hush (All Over the World)- A guilty favorite of mine. You probably know the record. It's the ending layered vocals that pull me in and make me think "Is there nothing this woman couldn't sing?"
Kiss Me The Way You Did Last Night- Originally recorded for their 1981 comeback album Made in America. Much better than anything released on that disc, Kiss Me is fresh and romantic. It's hard to be immune to the recording's charms. Karen absolutely coos each lyric, and the music sounds contemporary with Richard giving it the arrangement it deserves. Perfect late night radio! The record finally made it to 1989's Lovelines disc... but sadly, so few people have heard it.
Love is Surrender- From the Close to You mega selling album. The duo's new to the ear of the public. You can tell they are having fun only just beginning their career. Carefree, heartfelt, and snappy.
Only Yesterday- The biggest hit single from 1975's Horizon album. They made it easy to think anyone could do what they were doing, but the truth is, no one could. From Karen's basement notes to Richard's complex sophisticated arrangements, this is one record that will never be remade by anyone else.
Boat to Sail- The first of three boat songs. "Yacht Rock" before it was a thing. This is my favorite song by the duo. I know, it's not dark, famous, or incredibly deep. But it is irresistible. Karen sounds right there next to you as the spray of the water hits your suntanned face. Richard's banging on the keyboard on the beach but playing with such abandon and freedom. It's one of a kind. They never recorded another song like it.
All You Get From Love is a Love Song- This was the one duo's record that deserved to be a hit-- a big one. It's sassy, it swings, it has a great beat, and like most of these on my list, it is a blast to sing along with! Unfortunately by 1977, the Carpenters were long past their mega hit making days. But I'd say they were making interesting records that were creative and even adventurous. The Passage album was a tough sell in the USA, but overseas, it has legions of fans tuning into Calling Occupants of Interplanetary Craft.
Sailing on the Tide- Released in 1983 after Karen's untimely death. "Leaving at dawn, after I'm gone, life will go on. Someone's gotta take my place running in the human race"- yes, those words take on a particular painful reality for the fan listening, but this Tony Peluso written song (the guitarist who made Goodbye to Love controversial) but the fun factor is pretty high. Makes for a nice break on the very melancholy Voice of the Heart album.
Sweet Sweet Smile- Fiddle and banjo on a Carpenters record? A Juice Newton composition that's just too snappy, happy, and with a whole lot of twang. Karen's having a blast singing it and it shows.
Prime Time Love- Richard's background vocals are perfectly done on this record. Of course, Karen sounds great- she always does- but her brother brings just the right touch to this upbeat number.
Bacharach Medley- The 1971 "Tan" album was a monster- Rainy Days and Mondays, For All We Know, and Superstar are on it. This medley is a bright spot among the slower ballads. Even at 5 minutes in length, I'm left wanting more. Few folks wrote as many great songs as the late Burt Bacharach.
Our Day Will Come- This classic Ruby & the Romantics record is the one I am currently playing more than any other Carpenters record. If you thought the original was great, this version will slay you. It is the ultimate 50s/60s cover song done by our siblings who loved and respected the songs of the day. Find the fan made extended mix on YouTube. (It can be found here.)
Please Mr. Postman- STOP! This is another oldie and their last Number One single. You can slam it, turn off the radio when it comes on, or you can rock out to it and enjoy every bit of saxophone and guitar that gives it energy.
Make yourself a list and cruise down the highway while the Summer nights are so much fun. You'll feel like a kid again!
