About the song
The Carpenters’ third studio album, simply titled “Carpenters,” is a landmark record in the duo’s illustrious career. Released on May 14, 1971, this album stands as their most successful studio effort, reaching number two on the Billboard 200 chart and securing the number 12 spot in the UK. The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) recognized its widespread appeal by certifying it 4× Platinum, reflecting its substantial sales and enduring popularity.
“Carpenters” features a trio of hit songs that have become classics: “For All We Know,” “Rainy Days and Mondays,” and “Superstar.” These tracks not only showcased Karen Carpenter’s rich, emotive voice but also solidified the duo’s reputation for crafting timeless pop melodies infused with deep emotional resonance. It is said that the strength and success of these recordings prompted Richard Carpenter to suggest that his sister, Karen, should move to the front of the stage during live performances, rather than remaining behind the drums.
Fans often refer to this album as “The Tan Album” due to its original LP cover design, which resembled an oversized tan envelope with an overlapping flap. This design choice is presumably a nod to The Beatles’ iconic “White Album,” highlighting the Carpenters’ playful and creative approach to their work.
The album’s impact in 1971 was significant, with “Carpenters” listed among the year’s ten biggest albums in Cash Box’s Top 100 Albums. This album also marked the debut of the familiar Carpenters logo, a stylized font that would become synonymous with their brand and music.
All lead vocals on the album are performed by Karen Carpenter, except for three tracks: “Druscilla Penny,” “Saturday,” and the “Walk on By” segment of the Bacharach/David Medley, where Richard Carpenter takes the lead vocal, supported by Karen’s background harmonies. This vocal arrangement showcases the duo’s versatility and Richard’s musical talents.
The album and its singles garnered significant critical acclaim, earning the Carpenters four Grammy Award nominations, including Album of the Year. The duo’s work on this album won them the Grammy for Best Contemporary Vocal Performance by a Duo, Group, or Chorus, further cementing their place in music history.
In summary, the “Carpenters” album is a testament to the duo’s exceptional talent and their ability to create music that resonates across generations. Its success, both commercially and critically, underscores the enduring appeal of the Carpenters and their remarkable contribution to the world of music.
Video
Lyrics
Talkin’ to myself and feelin’ old
Sometimes I’d like to quit
Nothin’ ever seems to fit
Hangin’ around
Nothin’ to do but frown
Rainy days and Mondays always get me down
What I’ve got they used to call the blues
Nothin’ is really wrong
Feelin’ like I don’t belong
Walkin’ around
Some kind of lonely clown
Rainy days and Mondays always get me down
Funny, but it seems I always wind up here with you
Nice to know somebody loves me
Funny, but it seems that it’s the only thing to do
Run and find the one who loves me (the one who loves me)
What I feel has come and gone before
No need to talk it out (talk it out)
We know what it’s all about
Hangin’ around (hangin’ around)
Nothin’ to do but frown
Rainy days and Mondays always get me down
Funny, but it seems that it’s the only thing to do (only thing to do)
Run and find the one who loves me (ooh)
What I feel has come and gone before
No need to talk it out (to talk it out)
We know what it’s all about
Hangin’ around (hangin’ around)
Nothin’ to do but frown
Rainy days and Mondays always get me down
Hangin’ around (hangin’ around)
Nothin’ to do but frown
Rainy days and Mondays always get
Me down