About the song
“(They Long To Be) Close To You.” Released in 1970 as the lead single from their album Close To You, this track wasn’t just a hit; it became a monumental number one on the Billboard Hot 100, earning the duo a Grammy Award and launching them into global superstardom. It’s far more than just a popular song; it’s a shimmering, almost ethereal, celebration of the wonder and slight bewilderment that comes with finding perfect love, a melody that still feels as fresh and enchanting today as it did over five decades ago.
The lyrics of “(They Long To Be) Close To You,” penned by Burt Bacharach and Hal David, are a masterclass in elegant simplicity. They describe the almost fantastical effect the beloved has on the world around them, making angels appear, stars fall, and even birds spontaneously gather. It’s a gentle, whimsical narrative that speaks to the profound way a new love can transform one’s perception of reality, making everything seem brighter, more beautiful, and infused with a sense of miraculous serendipity. Phrases like “Why do birds suddenly appear / Every time you are near? / Just like me, they long to be / Close To You” and “On the day that you were born the angels got together / And decided to create a dream come true” perfectly capture this blend of adoration and almost childlike wonder. The song speaks to the universal experience of being utterly captivated by someone, seeing them as a singular, almost divinely crafted individual who brings an unparalleled sense of joy and magic into your life. It resonates deeply with anyone who has ever felt that dizzying, joyful rush of finding “the one.”
Karen Carpenter’s vocal performance on “(They Long To Be) Close To You” is simply breathtaking and stands as a testament to her unique gift. Her voice, renowned for its incredible purity, its warm, velvety tone, and its seemingly effortless control, delivers the lyrics with a profound sense of genuine tenderness and an almost innocent wonder. She doesn’t just sing the words; she breathes life into them, making the listener feel the joy and gentle awe of the narrator. There’s a perfect blend of vulnerability and a quiet strength in her phrasing, a subtle emotional resonance that makes the song incredibly personal and universally relatable. Karen Carpenter’s brilliance lies in her unparalleled ability to infuse such a whimsical narrative with authentic, heartfelt emotion, connecting with audiences on a deeply empathetic level through the sheer beauty and control of her instrument. Her vocal here is iconic, cementing her place as one of the most beloved voices of her time.
The musical arrangement of “(They Long To Be) Close To You,” meticulously crafted by Richard Carpenter, is a pristine example of the sophisticated pop sound that became synonymous with The Carpenters. It features a gentle, melodic piano that forms the harmonic backbone, complemented by lush, sweeping strings that add a layer of romantic grandeur, and subtle, intricate instrumentation that creates a full yet airy soundscape. The characteristic use of flugelhorn in the iconic intro adds an immediate sense of warmth and familiarity. The instrumentation is tasteful and precise, never overpowering Karen’s voice but instead providing a rich, supportive bed for her exquisite delivery. The production is clean, warm, and remarkably clear, allowing every instrumental nuance and, crucially, Karen Carpenter’s incredible vocal to be heard with pristine clarity, enhancing the song’s profound emotional impact and its undeniable accessibility. It’s an arrangement that feels both intimate and expansive, perfectly suited for such a grand declaration of newfound love.
“(They Long To Be) Close To You” resonated profoundly with audiences worldwide because its themes of magical love, wonder, and profound adoration are universally understood and intensely felt. It became one of The Carpenters’ most iconic and enduring hits, a true signature song that launched their careers and continues to bring joy to listeners. It remains a timeless classic, a powerful and exhilarating reminder that when it comes to true love, everyone longs to be Close To You.
Video
Lyrics
Why do birds suddenly appear
Every time you are near?
Just like me, they long to be
Close to you
Why do stars fall down from the sky
Every time you walk by?
Just like me, they long to be
Close to you
On the day that you were born the angels got together
And decided to create a dream come true
So they sprinkled moon dust in your hair of gold
And starlight in your eyes of blue
That is why all the girls in town
Follow you all around
Just like me, they long to be
Close to you
On the day that you were born the angels got together
And decided to create a dream come true
So they sprinkled moon dust in your hair of gold
And starlight in your eyes of blue
That is why all the girls in town
Follow you all around
Just like me, they long to be
Close to you
Just like me, they long to be
Close to you
Wa, close to you
Wa, close to you
Ha, close to you
La, close to you
