About the song
The Carpenters’ iconic “We’ve Only Just Begun.” Released in 1970, this wasn’t just a hit; it was a phenomenon, soaring to number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming one of the most recognizable and beloved anthems of new love. What’s truly fascinating about its origin is that it was originally a jingle for a Crocker National Bank television commercial, written by Paul Williams and Roger Nichols. Yet, in The Carpenters’ hands, it transcended its commercial roots to become a timeless standard, perfectly encapsulating the innocent idealism of the early 1970s and cementing their status as pop music royalty.
The lyrics of “We’ve Only Just Begun” paint an idyllic picture of a couple embarking on their future together, filled with shared dreams, mutual support, and boundless possibilities. It’s a gentle promise, an affirmation of a bond that is just starting to unfold, with so much more to discover and build. Phrases like “Sharing horizons that are new to us” and “Words we long to hear are whispered in our ear / Oh, my love, we’ve only just begun” evoke a sense of hopeful anticipation and the sweet intimacy of two people deeply committed to each other. It speaks to the beauty of a love that is pure, unburdened by cynicism, and focused entirely on the potential of a shared future. It’s a message that resonates deeply with anyone who has stood at the precipice of a new beginning, be it a marriage, a new home, or a new chapter in life, filled with excitement and faith.
Karen Carpenter’s vocal performance on “We’ve Only Just Begun” is, simply put, perfection. Her voice, renowned for its incredible purity, warmth, and effortless control, delivers the lyrics with a sincerity and tenderness that is utterly captivating. She possesses that rare ability to convey profound emotion with a quiet grace, making every word feel deeply personal and genuinely felt. There’s an underlying strength in her delicate delivery, a conviction that makes the optimism of the song feel completely authentic. It’s a masterclass in vocal subtlety and emotional resonance, solidifying her legacy as one of pop music’s most unique and beloved voices. Her performance alone elevates the song beyond its simple structure, turning it into an anthem of enduring hope.
The musical arrangement of “We’ve Only Just Begun” is classic Carpenters’ lush, sophisticated pop. It features a prominent, melodic piano that serves as the backbone, rich orchestral strings that swell and ebb with elegant precision, and subtle drums that provide a gentle rhythmic pulse. The production is meticulously crafted, creating a warm, inviting, and almost ethereal soundscape that perfectly complements Karen’s pristine vocals. It’s an arrangement that feels both expansive and intimate, designed to envelop the listener in a comforting embrace of sound.
“We’ve Only Just Begun” resonated deeply with audiences worldwide, becoming an instant classic and a staple at countless weddings and anniversaries. Its message of hopeful beginnings and shared dreams is timeless, and The Carpenters’ definitive rendition ensured its place in the pantheon of beloved pop songs. It remains a beautiful and enduring testament to the power of new love and the sweet promise that, indeed, we’ve only just begun.
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Lyrics
We’ve only just begun to live
White lace and promises
A kiss for luck and we’re on our way
We’ve only begun
Before the rising sun, we fly
So many roads to choose
We’ll start out walking and learn to run
And yes, we’ve just begun
Sharing horizons that are new to us
Watching the signs along the way
Talkin’ it over, just the two of us
Workin’ together day to day, together
And when the evening comes, we smile
So much of life ahead
We’ll find a place where there’s room to grow
And yes, we’ve just begun
Sharing horizons that are new to us
Watching the signs along the way
Talkin’ it over, just the two of us
Workin’ together day to day, together
And when the evening comes, we smile
So much of life ahead
We’ll find a place where there’s room to grow
And yes, we’ve just begun
