The Brilliance of Youth: A collection of the Carpenters’ signature and popular songs
The sibling duo the Carpenters, who have achieved record-breaking sales in music history and continue to be loved around the world.
In Japan in particular, their popularity is exceptional—as evidenced by their first Japan tour in 1976 being held at the Nippon Budokan—and they seem to enjoy periodic revival hits through use in commercials and TV dramas.
It hardly needs saying that the Carpenters’ songs are so well-known that they even appear in music textbooks.
This article brings together and introduces the Carpenters’ popular and signature songs.
It’s also recommended for those who’ve heard the tunes but might not know the song titles—so please take a look!
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[The Sparkle of Youth] A Collection of the Carpenters’ Signature and Popular Songs (91–100)
I kept on loving youCarpenters
A song notable for Richard’s gentle vocals.
Its positive lyrics about a future with a lover are encouraging.
It’s a track included on the Carpenters’ second album, Close to You, released in 1970.
What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve?Carpenters
The Carpenters have produced numerous masterpieces, and when it comes to their song for January, are you familiar with “What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve?”, which sings about New Year’s Eve? It’s a jazzy, swoon-worthy tune—an indulgent piece that flows with a magically romantic mood.
The Brilliance of Youth: A Collection of the Carpenters’ Signature and Popular Songs (101–110)
Need To Be In Love (The Brilliance of Youth)Carpenters
For many women in their 60s, there may be quite a few who once identified with this song and found it deeply relatable.
The song became a hit in 1976.
Karen gently and poignantly sings about the feelings of a woman who, after graduating from college and starting a job, prioritizes work over love and marriage, and has become hesitant about new romance.
Ticket To Ride (Japanese title: Namida no Jōshaken)Carpenters
A song by the world-famous British rock band, the Beatles, known in Japan under the title “Tears Ticket.” It was used in the film “Help!” during the scene where the members are enjoying skiing.
While the Beatles sing it with an upbeat rhythm and a light touch, the Carpenters perform it as a gentle, elegant ballad.
In addition, the lyrics change “she” to “he,” reversing the genders, and depict a man leaving a woman.
Kiss Me The Way You Did Last NightCarpenters
The British pop artist, the Carpenters.
They released numerous timeless hits in the 1980s that are still sung today.
This song was written in 1989 and is included on the album “Pursuit of Love.” It is also recommended as a duet track.
In conclusion
As mentioned at the beginning, the Carpenters are one of the most beloved Western music groups in Japan, and I imagine that many of the gem-like masterpieces introduced here were songs you’ve at least heard in passing.
The brilliance of the music created by this miraculously talented brother-sister duo will never fade, and it will surely continue to be cherished for years to come.