The Carpenters – “We’ve Only Just Begun” (1970)

About The Song

Title: We’ve Only Just Begun

Artist: The Carpenters

Genre: Soft Rock, Adult Contemporary

Release Date: September 25, 1970

Album: Close to You

Writers: Paul Williams, Roger Nichols

Key Themes: “We’ve Only Just Begun” is a romantic song that captures the sentiment of embarking on a new journey together. The lyrics symbolize the beginning of a relationship and the optimism and excitement that come with starting a life together. Originally written for a bank commercial, the song took on a life of its own and became a classic love ballad.

Musical Style: The Carpenters’ rendition of “We’ve Only Just Begun” is characterized by its soft rock and adult contemporary style. Karen Carpenter’s clear and emotive vocals, coupled with Richard Carpenter’s meticulous arrangements, contribute to the song’s timeless and elegant sound. The orchestration includes a blend of piano, strings, and subtle percussion.

Cultural Impact: “We’ve Only Just Begun” became one of The Carpenters’ signature songs and a major hit for the duo. It received widespread acclaim and won a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Performance by a Duo, Group, or Chorus. The song’s popularity endures, and it is often associated with weddings and romantic moments.

Legacy: The Carpenters’ rendition of “We’ve Only Just Begun” remains a classic in the soft rock genre and is considered one of their most iconic songs. Its enduring popularity is evidenced by its continued use in various forms of media and its status as a timeless love ballad.

“We’ve Only Just Begun” stands as a testament to The Carpenters’ ability to convey emotion through their music, and its beautiful melody and lyrics continue to resonate with audiences, making it a cherished piece in the world of romantic ballads.

Video

Lyrics

“We’ve Only Just Begun”

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