About the song
When we talk about timeless love songs that have left an indelible mark on music history, (They Long to Be) Close to You by The Carpenters undoubtedly stands out. Released on May 15, 1970, as a part of their album “Close to You”, this track became the duo’s breakthrough hit, catapulting them to fame and solidifying their place in the hearts of music lovers worldwide.
The Carpenters, consisting of siblings Karen and Richard Carpenter, were known for their soft, melodic pop sound that contrasted sharply with the hard rock dominating the airwaves in the early ’70s. Karen Carpenter’s rich, emotive contralto voice combined with Richard Carpenter’s lush arrangements and piano work to create a sound that was both unique and irresistibly charming.
“(They Long to Be) Close to You” was written by the legendary songwriting duo Burt Bacharach and Hal David. The song’s gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics capture the longing and joy of newfound love. It’s a song that speaks to the simple yet profound desire to be close to the one you love. The opening lines, “Why do birds suddenly appear every time you are near?” immediately draw listeners into a world where love is as natural and beautiful as the songs of birds.
Upon its release, “(They Long to Be) Close to You” quickly climbed the charts, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and staying there for four weeks. This success marked the beginning of The Carpenters‘ rise to stardom. The song also earned them a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Performance by a Duo, Group, or Chorus.
The societal impact of “Close to You” was significant. At a time when the counterculture movement was in full swing and music was often a form of protest or rebellion, The Carpenters offered a soothing alternative. Their clean-cut image and wholesome sound provided a sense of comfort and stability. “Close to You” became an anthem for romantic sentiment, capturing the hearts of listeners who were looking for something gentle and reassuring amidst the tumult of the era.
The enduring appeal of “(They Long to Be) Close to You” lies in its simplicity and emotional honesty. The song doesn’t rely on complex metaphors or grandiose declarations. Instead, it expresses a universal feeling in a way that is both straightforward and deeply moving. The delicate arrangement, featuring soft piano, understated percussion, and lush strings, complements Karen’s voice perfectly, creating a sound that is as timeless today as it was over fifty years ago.
In conclusion, “(They Long to Be) Close to You” is more than just a hit song from the 1970s. It is a piece of musical artistry that captures the essence of love and longing in a way that resonates across generations. The Carpenters‘ masterful execution of this beautiful Bacharach and David composition ensures its place in the pantheon of classic love songs. Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or the hundredth, the magic of “Close to You” remains undiminished, a testament to the enduring power of music to touch our hearts and souls.
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Lyrics
Why do birds suddenly appearEvery time you are near?Just like me, they long to beClose to youWhy do stars fall down from the skyEvery time you walk by?Just like me, they long to beClose to youOn the day that you were born the angels got togetherAnd decided to create a dream come trueSo they sprinkled moon dust in your hair of goldAnd starlight in your eyes of blueThat is why all the girls in townFollow you all aroundJust like me, they long to beClose to youOn the day that you were born the angels got togetherAnd decided to create a dream come trueSo they sprinkled moon dust in your hair of goldAnd starlight in your eyes of blueThat is why all the girls in townFollow you all aroundJust like me, they long to beClose to youJust like me, they long to beClose to youWa, close to youWa, close to youHa, close to youLa, close to you