About the song
The Carpenters, a beloved duo consisting of siblings Karen and Richard Carpenter, have gifted the world with numerous timeless hits, and “Only Yesterday” is a shining example of their musical brilliance. Released on March 14, 1975, this song was the lead single from their album “Horizon”, which showcases the impeccable harmony and emotional depth that have come to define their sound.
“Only Yesterday” is a song that encapsulates a sense of hope and renewal. The lyrics reflect the journey from heartache to healing, a theme that resonates deeply with many listeners. Written by Richard Carpenter and John Bettis, the song captures the universal experience of overcoming sorrow and finding happiness once again. Lines like “After long enough of being alone, everyone must face their share of loneliness” speak to the struggles we all endure, while the uplifting chorus, “Only yesterday when I was sad and I was lonely, you showed me the way to leave the past and all its tears behind me,” offers a message of optimism and new beginnings.
The Carpenters’ unique ability to blend poignant lyrics with beautiful melodies is on full display in “Only Yesterday”. Karen Carpenter’s rich, warm voice brings a sense of sincerity and comfort to the song, making the listener feel every emotion conveyed through her singing. Richard Carpenter’s arrangement and production provide a lush backdrop that complements Karen’s vocals perfectly, featuring orchestral elements that add to the song’s grandeur.
The release of “Only Yesterday” came at a time when The Carpenters were already well-established in the music industry, having produced numerous hits throughout the early 1970s. However, this song solidified their reputation as one of the era’s most talented and influential musical acts. It climbed to number four on the Billboard Hot 100 and became a staple on adult contemporary radio, further cementing The Carpenters’ legacy.
Socially, “Only Yesterday” and The Carpenters’ music, in general, have had a lasting impact. Their songs, characterized by their gentle, melodic pop sound, provided a comforting escape during a tumultuous decade marked by political unrest and social change. The Carpenters’ music offered a sense of normalcy and peace, resonating with a wide audience who found solace in their soothing tunes.
The influence of “Only Yesterday” extends beyond its immediate success. The song has been covered by various artists over the years and remains a favorite among fans of classic pop music. Its themes of resilience and renewal continue to inspire and uplift listeners, demonstrating the enduring power of The Carpenters’ music.
In conclusion, “Only Yesterday” by The Carpenters is more than just a song; it’s a testament to the duo’s extraordinary talent and their ability to touch the hearts of listeners worldwide. Its release in 1975 marked another milestone in their illustrious career, and its message of hope and healing remains as relevant today as it was nearly five decades ago. For those who appreciate the beauty of heartfelt lyrics and masterful musical arrangements, “Only Yesterday” stands as a shining example of The Carpenters’ enduring legacy in the world of music.
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Lyrics
After long enough of being aloneEveryone must face their share of lonelinessIn my own time, nobody knewThe pain I was goin’ throughAnd waitin’ was all my heart could doHope was all I had until you cameMaybe you can’t see how much you mean to meYou were the dawn breaking the nightThe promise of mornin’ lightFilling the world surroundin’ meWhen I hold youBaby, baby, feels like maybeThings will be all rightBaby, baby, your love’s made meFree as a song, singin’ foreverOnly yesterday when I was sad and I was lonelyYou showed me the way to leave the past and all its tears behind meTomorrow maybe even brighter than todaySince I threw my sadness awayOnly yesterdayI have found my home here in your armsNowhere else on earth I’d really rather beLife waits for us, share it with meThe best is about to beAnd so much is left for us to seeWhen I hold youBaby, baby, feels like maybeThings will be all rightBaby, baby, your love’s made meFree as a song, singin’ foreverOnly yesterday when I was sad and I was lonelyYou showed me the way to leave the past and all its tears behind meTomorrow maybe even brighter than todaySince I threw my sadness awayOnly yesterday (only yesterday, only yesterday)Only yesterday when I was sad and I was lonelyYou showed me the way to leave the past and all its tears behind me