About the song
Carly Simon’s *Anticipation* is a celebrated album that marked a significant moment in her early career. Released in November 1971 by Elektra Records, it was Simon’s second studio album, following her acclaimed debut. The album is particularly noted for its title track and lead single, “Anticipation,” which became a major hit, reaching the top 20 on the U.S. charts. The song’s reflective lyrics and melody captured the essence of eager expectation and became iconic enough to be featured in Heinz ketchup commercials starting in 1973.
The album’s cover features a striking photograph of Simon, taken by her brother Peter Simon, at the gates of Queen Mary’s Garden in London’s Regent’s Park. This imagery complements the introspective and personal nature of the album’s content.
One of the highlights of *Anticipation* is its closing track, “I’ve Got to Have You,” which was penned by Kris Kristofferson. This song was released as a single in Australia and achieved notable success, reaching No. 6 on the Australian charts in 1972. The song stands out for its emotional intensity and Kristofferson’s poignant writing, which Simon delivers with remarkable depth.
Stephen Davis, writing for *Rolling Stone*, praised the album for its exploration of romantic tension and its enigmatic beauty. He described “Anticipation” as a spirited examination of the uncertainties in budding romance. Davis also highlighted “Our First Day Together” as a beautifully quiet and enigmatic track, and lauded “I’ve Got To Have You” as a powerful expression of raw, passionate love.
AllMusic’s William Ruhlmann echoed these sentiments, rating the album 3.5 stars out of 5 and noting that Simon extended her bold persona from her debut album. *Anticipation* was well-received, with Cash Box describing “The Girl You Think You See” as a noteworthy chart item and Record World commending its thoughtful composition.
In 1973, the album was certified Gold by the RIAA for selling over 500,000 copies in the United States. Reflecting on the recording process, Simon fondly remembered it as a memorable experience, enjoying the simplicity and intimacy of working with a small band and minimal production. This approach gave the album a raw, authentic feel that resonated deeply with listeners and helped establish Carly Simon as a distinctive voice in the music industry.
Video
Lyrics
We can never know about the days to come
But we think about them anyway
And I wonder if I’m really with you now
Or just chasin’ after some finer day
Anticipation, anticipation
Is makin’ me late
Is keepin’ me waitin’
And I tell you how easy it feels to be with you
And how right your arms feel around me
But I, I rehearsed those words just late last night
When I was thinkin’ about how right tonight might be
Anticipation, anticipation
Is makin’ me late
Is keepin’ me waitin’
And tomorrow we might not be together
I’m no prophet and I don’t know nature’s ways
So I’ll try and see into your eyes right now
And stay right here ’cause these are the good old days
And stay right here ’cause these are the good old days
(These are the good old days)
(These are the good old days)
(These are the good old days)
(These are the good old days)