Superstar by The Carpenters: A Timeless Classic
Many music lovers of a certain age can instantly recall the smooth vocals of Karen Carpenter and the meticulous arrangements of her brother Richard, the hallmarks of the iconic duo The Carpenters. But did you know their signature sound wasn’t always the standard? In 1971, they took a surprising turn, transforming a lesser-known song, “Superstar,” into a chart-topping hit that cemented their place in pop music history.
Originally written by Bonnie Bramlett and Leon Russell, “Superstar” had a different life before landing in the Carpenters’ hands. While the exact details are a bit hazy, it seems the song’s initial subject matter was more suggestive than what the wholesome Carpenters were known for. Enter Richard Carpenter, with a keen ear for potential and a willingness to adapt. After spotting Bette Midler perform the song on The Tonight Show, he was captivated by its melody and raw emotion.
However, to make it truly their own, Richard made a key change. The original second verse contained a lyric that didn’t quite fit the Carpenters’ squeaky-clean image. With a simple tweak, he transformed “And I can hardly wait/To sleep with you again” into the more innocent “And I can hardly wait/To be with you again.” This subtle shift preserved the song’s emotional core while aligning it with the duo’s established style.
The recording process itself was a testament to the magic that could happen in the studio. Backed by the legendary Wrecking Crew, a group of Los Angeles session musicians known for their versatility, The Carpenters captured the essence of “Superstar” in a single take. Karen’s vocals, often praised for their purity and sincerity, truly shone on this track. Music critic David Hepworth even remarked that her performance was so powerful, the original guide vocal never needed to be replaced.
Released in 1971, “Superstar” quickly climbed the charts, peaking at number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. While it was ultimately dethroned by Rod Stewart’s “Maggie May,” “Superstar” still managed to secure a gold record status and spend a glorious two weeks at the top of the Easy Listening chart. This meteoric rise wasn’t just limited to the US; the song charted in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand as well. Richard’s masterful arrangement even garnered him a Grammy nomination for Best Arrangement Accompanying Vocalist.
“Superstar” became a staple of The Carpenters’ live shows throughout the 1970s and continues to be a beloved track for their dedicated fanbase. It has also found a new life on numerous compilation albums, a testament to its enduring appeal. So, the next time you hear the smooth melodies and heartfelt vocals of The Carpenters, remember that even superstars can be made, not just born. And in the case of “Superstar,” the Carpenters’ golden touch transformed a hidden gem into a timeless classic.