In popular music, perhaps the most treacherous department of the entertainment industry, thousands of pretenders to the throne of importance make the fatal mistake of believing that sudden fame (a hit record or two, a good concert) elevates them to the hall of fame. Karen Carpenter and CARPENTERS ~ The Journey to Stardom By Ray ColemanĮxcellence and success on a grand scale are not easy goals in any sphere of the arts. They had the talent needed to succeed but it took determination, perseverance and a deep sense of belief in themselves. However, their road to the top was not an easy one. Karen’s endearing voice that sang so many hauntingly beautiful melodies eventually captured the imagination of critics and won Carpenters fame and fortune. More than thirty years after she left us, the music legacy of Carpenters live on in the hearts of millions around the world. (Listening tip: Use a set of good headphone) I Won’t Last A Day Without You remains one of my all-time favourites, among so many hits that I enjoyed through the years.

But I was truly captivated by Karen’s voice and have fond memories of my childhood playing their tunes on the piano. Growing up in the 70s, I recall most of my friends were listening to the music of Led Zeppelin, Earth Wind & Fire, Pink Floyd, Beatles and Rolling Stones. Gone too soon, and the world mourned the loss of an immensely talented soul that brought smiles and happiness to so many.

Together with her brother Richard, they became Carpenters that went on to record hit after hit and sold more than 60 million albums around the world in the 1970s until Karen’s tragic death in 1983. ~~~~~~~~O~~~~~~~~ Karen Carpenter would have been 63 today had she not died of heart failure as a result of complications from anorexia nervosa at the tender age of 32. ~ Paul Williams & Roger Nichols, composers ofĬarpenters‘ hit single I Won’t Last A Day Without You “I can take all the madness the world has to give but I won’t last a day without you”

Karen carpenter last photos