Superstar – Carpenters
The Carpenters were an American music duo consisting of siblings Karen Carpenter and Richard Carpenter. They rose to prominence in the 1970s and became one of the most successful musical acts of all time. Karen Carpenter, known for her distinctive contralto vocals, and Richard Carpenter, a talented musician and composer, created a unique sound that blended soft rock, pop, and easy listening.
One of their most popular songs, “Superstar,” was originally written and recorded by Bonnie Bramlett and Leon Russell in 1969. However, it was the Carpenters’ rendition of the song that gained widespread recognition. Their version was released in 1971 as a single from their album “Carpenters.” “Superstar” showcased Karen Carpenter’s emotive and heartfelt vocals, accompanied by Richard Carpenter’s intricate piano melodies and lush orchestration.
The song tells a story of unrequited love, with the protagonist expressing their admiration for a distant and unattainable superstar. The lyrics evoke feelings of longing, loneliness, and the bittersweet nature of unfulfilled romance. Karen Carpenter’s soulful delivery added an extra layer of vulnerability and emotional depth to the song, resonating with audiences around the world.
“Superstar” became one of the Carpenters’ signature songs and a fan favorite. It reached the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, peaking at number 2, and it also achieved success internationally. The song’s popularity further solidified the Carpenters’ status as one of the most beloved acts of the era.
Over the course of their career, the Carpenters released numerous hit songs, including “Close to You,” “We’ve Only Just Begun,” “Rainy Days and Mondays,” and “Top of the World,” among many others. Their soft, melodic sound and Karen Carpenter’s incredible vocal talent captivated listeners, earning them a loyal fan base.
Tragically, Karen Carpenter’s life was cut short at the age of 32 due to complications related to anorexia nervosa, a disorder she battled for many years. Her untimely death in 1983 marked the end of the Carpenters’ active recording career, but their music continues to be celebrated and cherished by generations of fans.
“Superstar” remains a timeless classic and a testament to the Carpenters’ musical legacy. Its heartfelt lyrics, combined with Karen Carpenter’s unforgettable voice and Richard Carpenter’s musical craftsmanship, have ensured its enduring popularity and status as one of their most iconic songs.
Lyrics
Long ago, and, oh, so far away
I fell in love with you before the second show
Your guitar, it sounds so sweet and clear
But you’re not really here, it’s just the radio
Don’t you remember, you told me you loved me baby?
You said you’d be coming back this way again baby
Baby, baby, baby, baby, oh baby
I love you, I really do
Loneliness is such a sad affair
And I can hardly wait to be with you again
What to say to make you come again?
Come back to me again and play your sad guitar
Don’t you remember, you told me you loved me baby?
You said you’d be coming back this way again baby
Baby, baby, baby, baby, oh baby
I love you, I really do
Don’t you remember, you told me you loved me baby?
You said you’d be coming back this way again baby
Baby, baby, baby, baby, oh baby
I love you, I really do
December 2, 2024 @ 4:20 pm
Lovely,, just lovely; it brings back so many memories… – I too sang this beautiful song upteen times through the years.. – So much talent,, what a sad ending of a beautiful voice..
May 17, 2022 @ 9:12 am
What ever happen to America and our great music and song writers, the decade our music died!
April 18, 2019 @ 12:21 pm
;love this song,
April 13, 2019 @ 1:56 pm
The one and only Karen Carpenter. What a really tragic loss at such a young age. Love their music.