Acorns! if you like to help the channel sharing really makes a big difference! Watch my new Carpenter’s “A SONG for YOU” [Album DOCUMENTARY] ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-lmKLU3yNwS4.html
Want to hear a bigger surprise? I never thought I’d ever listen to a reaction video of a reviewer with pink hair wearing cat ears! But here I am and now a new subscriber! Most or all my LP’s are much older than you. However, your analysis is articulate and fascinating, both musically and retrospectively concerning the storyline behind the music. What brought me here is your two part Karen Carpenter anthology of “Solitaire.” Those of us who are her age and lived that era share much of your same perspective in recognizing she possessed a gifted voice that is unparalleled musically. If there were other contenders they lacked the main ingredient. Her brother Richard. Richard’s genius in both the studio and at the keyboard, in an age before any digital sound recording, perfectly captured, mixed, and engineered the alto range that resonated from Karen’s vocal chords into the sound that made you weep. I was sympathetically moved with you as I watched you listen to this masterpiece. All of the background story concerning the composition, like Van Gough’s “Starry Night”, is immaterial. A masterpiece is still a masterpiece. However, you have gone down the rabbit hole to shed light on it’s creation in a way I’ve never considered before. Impressive.
I don’t know I feel I must’ve lived before because I feel an attachment to music from lots of time periods. You are right a masterpiece is a masterpiece. But I am fascinated by how they get made! No matter what time they are from. Thank you for your kind and well considered comment!
I don't know if I could have said it any better. Suffice it to say, I have subscribed as well. And yes, it was because of your coverage of this amazing duo. Thanks!
I love Karen’s rendition of Solitaire primarily because it showcases her incomparable voice. I think it highlights her low register, her perfect pitch on high notes, her breath control and her immaculate note stretching. I know there has been lots of discussion about why Karen didn’t like the song that much, and I don’t pretend to know the answer-only Karen could give us the truth. I don’t, however, agree that it was because the song hit too close to home given her personal challenges with love relationships, her failed marriage, etc. I base my disagreement on an understanding of what her favorite Carpenters song was, I Need To Be in Love. That song, written by Richard and John Bettis, hits close to home for her more than Solitaire in many ways. Yet it was her favorite song. We’ll never really know her feelings about Solitaire, but what we do know is that it was her perfect voice that created the perfect version of the song.
I changed my mind about this since this video … and I actually agree with you …it’ll be part of my new video that’s coming pretty soon… there’s another video if you haven’t seen it on song for you ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-lmKLU3yNwS4.htmlsi=SC4fn14WS3iD5L4_
I saw a YT video that was a documentary about the Carpenters. They interviewed Sherwin Bash, who was fired as the Carpenters manager. He said the riff started because the opening act (which was Neil) isn't supposed to announce to the audience if a special guest shows up at the concert. It's "protocol in the business" to have that honor go to the main act. However when Tom Jones (the singer) showed up, Neil announced it . Which pissed the Carpenters off! I did see one other story about the (riff) and it said that Neil used Richard's piano for his opening show and supposedly he broke one of the keys on it. They said that Karen was livid! Even more so then Richard.
A couple people had mentioned about the piano and about I think it was Tom Jones someone said Neil announced . But I didn’t know the fact that Karen was also angry. I think some of these things get kind of lost with time. I really like getting a three dimensional view of what someone was really like! I like that Karen got mad about it My guess is probably they were trying to keep it classy though by not mentioning what really happened. Thanks for the info!
THIS!!!! THIS is fantastic. Thank you so very much. I'd read that Richard had asked that Sedaka be fired because he'd introduced Tom Jones (who was present in the audience) against strict agreement that Richard would be the one to introduce visiting celebrities. Apparently, it was a last straw of sorts. But for whatever reason, the overall blowup was petty, indeed - ultimately leaving what I've long considered a breathtakingly beautiful, zenith performance moldering in the dustbin of music history.
Wow someone just said this but I didn't know it was Tom Jones or that it was kind of a buildup. That makes a lot of sense but it's hard to not see this is kind of a turning point for Carpenters especially Karen who it seems kind of got caught in the crosshairs. Thanks for the info!
The rift began and as you called it ‘protocol’ was when as the opening act Sedaka introduced a huge celebrity who was in the audience when it was the ‘headliners’ who were to do so.
You're welcome, I've been on a bit of a Carpenter journey the past few years even meeting musicians who played in their band, on recordings, to some who even toured with them. I love your channel BTW 😘@@popcornphilosopher
I seriously enjoyed this - it certainly is a poignant song deserving of the praise, in no small part due to Karen Carpenter's heartfelt vocals. Thank you Popcorn Philosopher, your research and commentary are fascinating!
I think it was Neil and Richard's egos that were battling. I'd be willing to bet that Neil always appreciated Karen's talent. She just got mixed up in the middle of it and, unfortunately, probably took it the hardest. I don't feel that those closest to Karen appreciated her as much as everyone else (fans and fellow musicians/vocalists) did.
That’s the hardest to take in life that there are so many misunderstandings and miscommunications. I don’t think anyone of them were bad people. It’s kind of sad because it doesn’t seem like it should have been that big of a deal but it kind of was. I like your take on it!
If you read the story of Carpenters Sedaka break up by Carpenters manager who was fired the same night it was because Sedaka introduce another famous singer who was in the audience. That was something you just did not do if you were opening for another group. The introducing of famous people in the audience was the honor of the main act. SEDAKA KNEW THAT.
How nice to find you again in a new investigation, about one of my favorite artists, and at the same time about one of my favorite songs of all time Yes, I'm talking about "Carpenters" and "Solitaire" Yesterday I saw your reaction video, I loved it, but I didn't leave you a comment, I also saw many Carpenters fans and it seemed prudent to respect that space Today with your research I learned a lot of things I didn't know. I am 65 years old, during my time in high school (1970/1974) I listened to The Beatles, and their solo careers, the Bee Gees, and some Carpenters... (then other transients in me, like Deep Purple or Credence Clearwater Revival) At that time, with me between 13/17 years old, a few songs identified me because of their deep lyrics and I highlight three: The Fool on the Hill (BEATLES, 1967) Mr Natural (Bee Gees, 1974) and this... "Solitaire" In your previous video you asked... and I give you my personal taste Karen Carpenters is one of the 5 best voices I have ever heard along with Agnetha (ABBA), Paul McCartney (Beatles), Robin Gibb (Bee Gees) and Freddy Mercury (Queen) and Solitarie is my favorite Carpenters song, among many very good ones they has, like Only yesterday, Rainy days and mondays, Sing a song, Top of the world, A kind of hush, and an extraordinary version she made of a song by Los Beatles: "Ticket to ride" watching your video, I make some relations with ABBA 1) Karen was born in March 1950, just a few weeks before Agnetha Fältskog, April 1950 2) the only ABBA song that does not have the lyrics in English written by Björn and Benny is one of their first "Ring Ring" (1973), because manager Stig believed that it would do very well in Eurovision (but it did not qualify in Sweden) and asked .... Neil Sedaka and Phid Cody to create lyrics 3) ABBA and the Carpenters met on a TV program in Germany in 1978, there ABBA performed three songs and one of them was "Thank you for the music"; when Carpenters returned to the United States, they performed these song live for a TV performance, but never recorded it. 4) I believe that much years later Agnetha recorded some song as a soloist that Karen had already recorded Karen (I'm not sure) In order not to extend too much, I left you an idea. I mentioned the Bee Gees and their song Mr Natural, my favorite, unfortunately a commercial failure. but there is another song of my favorites that has an interesting story, it is Lamplight (1969), side B of the single "First of May" Because of that two songs, Robin Gibb left the group for almost two years, until he returned in 1971 with "Lonely Days." Would you like to do a job on that topic? Well I don't want to be too annoying Congratulations again on your work. And I hope to see you soon in another video A cordial greeting from Buenos Aires, Argentina South America
Thank you I’m glad you enjoyed the investigation! Yeah, I thought I knew all of the carpenters, best singles. But solitaire was definitely a surprise, both in terms of story and of course the actual song. I was thinking of getting into Bee Gees another band I’ve never heard an album. I’ve also never heard the Barbra Streisand Bee Gees album but of course know a couple of the singles. I’ll look into those two songs you were talking about. I do like a good story! And I definitely will do Queen eventually! Although I have heard one Queen album, in addition to the greatest hits. You know I probably like the carpenters ticket to ride even more than the Beatles version. Is that sacrilegious haha? Those are some interesting Abba parallels! I had no idea about Ring Ring. So Neil Sedaka co wrote the lyrics for that? Thanks for the interesting facts you have great info! Say hello to Buenos Aires for me!
@@popcornphilosopher I am with you, Ticket to ride by Carpenters is a different song and a Masterpiece! (altough the original by BEATLES is so great, I love more the Carpenters cover too) Barbra Streisand did an álbum with Barry Gibb , "Guilty", with a great lead single "Woman un love" I didn't talk about Queen hahaha, but I see Them twice live in Buenos Aires 1981 and Solitaire is fantástic, beautiful and gorgeous by Karen voice; I never imagine the sad history about the song Incredible! You did a great job
Thank you for taking us with you down this rabbit hole, although I was hesitant to watch this video. I mean, it took 25 years after Karen's death before I could listen to her sing once more. Keep up the good work.
I appreciate that thank you I wanted to keep it very respectful. I hesitated, even making the video. But I really did think what I found was significant and I never knew any of it!
Holy crap! That was an immense amount of work. I love the Carpenters and I love Neil Sedaka. I have both albums in question, on LP. I couldn't stop watching. All the clips and text and the work of throwing it all together must have been exhausting. I don't know if I inferred this right, from watching this, but it sounds like saying Karen didn't like the song was just a dig from Richard to Neil. Really, really nice job. :)
I appreciate that so much that you noticed! These mini docs take a long time to make. But I wanted to get it right! Something befitting such a beautiful song. I heard some people say that it was a bit of a dig but this song might have also been a little close to home and though it’s a beautiful song, it’s not a very hopeful one. So that might’ve been part of it too. I think several things could be true at once!
It's sad we lost Karen so young. That clip of her on Good Morning America. You see it really clear she was going through something. When I was growing up in the 70s I didn't pay attention to the Carpenters. I always liked their music.I remember in Catholic chool we would do recitals with some of their songs like "Sing" and "Top of the World". I got into them way later after Karen was gone. Their was a movie on her life which I used to watch all the time. Made me gravitate towards their genius. I don't remember Solitaire: I recently heard of the story on Niel Sedaka and the dispute. I did'nt know it affected them buisness wise. Great research on your end. Great video.
Yeah, you know I wasn’t even intending on making a video about this. I was just looking up background about the song out of curiosity, but it all seems so significant! thank you so much. And yes most definitely lost her to soon!
Richard didn't fire Neil because of any standing ovations he received. It was because there is a protocol in the business that anyone who is famous or of notoriety in the audience isn't to be introduced until the main act comes out on to stage, and Neil introduced people who were in the audience who were famous. Richard and Karen should have been the ones who did this since they were the main headliner. Maybe Richard overreacted, but it wasn't because Neil received a standing ovation.
I actually think it’s probably for quite a few reasons. Which almost makes it harder if you’re announcing it to the media I learned more when I read the little girl, blue biography! But I think that’s what Neil Sedaka thought. Perceptions a funny thing!
Okay, PP, you have blown me away! This long-term Carpenters' fan has long considered "Solitaire" his absolute favorite Carpenters' song (and Karen's best ever performance). I knew some of the details about the song and the incident with Sedaka (who I also like), but you, my Friend, have filled in the blanks and I feel I finally have a more complete picture. Not bad after almost 50 years!!! Cheers! 😀♥
Thank you! It always makes me feel really good when I hear from a long time fan that I was able to add a couple of obscure details. But I really wanted to get it right because it did seemed very significant.
Io, you are so sweet to reply. Thank you also for your deep dive on this! I have been a long- term poster at a Carpenters' fansite where it seems everyone is a huge Carpenters' expert and I have learned so much, in addition to living through their recording career. So for you to expand on that info and, in turn, give such an emotional response to "Solitaire" has warmed my heart. ♥💙💚 I look forward to enjoying your videos! Bless you... @@popcornphilosopher
Wow! Well done and I’m so sad. I didn’t know most of this and certainly didn’t realize the fracture was so bad. I hope Richard and Neil close the wound and heal. Neither is young anymore and it sounds like it really shouldn’t have gotten so out of hand. Joe
Thank you yeah I didn’t know any of this either! But I really went down the rabbit hole. Me too I do to really feel like misunderstandings happen to easily! And life is short!
@@popcornphilosopher something this made me think about. I remember something about a falling out between Richard and Cubby O’Brien, after many years as their travel drummer. They are both still alive and I hope they resolve it before time take’s its toll. There was a lot of magic during their run. I think it happened in ‘79. Their touring days were over then.
Very interesting. I recall that either 'People', 'Us' or maybe even 'Parade' Magazine reported in the 70s how Richard and Karen had abandoned Neil during a tour -- possibly in Europe. No explanation given. Maybe this did lead to DJs ignoring 'Solitaire', because I never heard it played on the radio. Obviously, people like me who only know it from the album have very strong feelings about it. Nothing against Clay Aiken, but he's no Karen Carpenter. Neil seems like he could be a little bitchy - he also had a falling out with Elton John after the latter had helped boost his career by writing and performing with Neil on 'Bad Blood'. My own thoughts are Karen disliking the song are about the content -- and not the song's construction -- which is brilliant. Perhaps the part about losing love over indifference is what bothered her most.
You have a great point. And that’s interesting because I actually thought about that indifference line. The line doesn’t toatalkt sit right with me either. And it’s the first line of the song. It almost doesn’t feel true. Even though the rest really is brilliant. Thank you for the interesting info too! I love hearing from someone who was there at the time and remembers what was being said.
I discovered your channel through your reaction to ABBA's "The Visitors." ABBA is my favorite band of all-time, followed by The Carpenters as a close second. With this well-researched documentary, you have won me over as a fan and a new subscriber! I look forward to seeing more reactions to both of these incredible groups!
I love when The Carpenters get recognition. Their music was so beautiful and to hear new reviews keeps it alive. I often wonder what Karen would've sang nowadays and all those years we lost on her talent. She would've been involved heavily back in the early 2000'sTV shows competition for vocalists.
I was 26 when she passed. I always loved the Carpenters even when the other popular music back, then was mainstream. I still listen to the carpenters today and miss Karen -. When I hear her singing on the radio or at home on my stereo, it takes me back in time and at the same time it brings sadness to me, wondering why she died so young and what she could’ve done had she lived.
What a phenomenal mini-doc. I know this took a lot of work, so kudos to you! Here’s some perspective on how older gen x’rs saw them at this moment in time, the mid 70s. By 75, they were considered that band you liked when you were a little kid. Almost like bubble gum music. By that time, Bowie, Led Zeppelin and all kinds of harder music became very popular. So, anything by The Carpenters after 73 was just considered almost like boy-band music and not to be taken seriously. But nostalgia is an extremely powerful emotion, and when she died and those songs were played again, our generation came to realize that they were brilliant masterpieces. Almost like still images coming from our childhoods, they haunted us. It’s really when they the Carpenters legendary iconic image was born. That happens a lot. You don’t what you’ve got till it’s gone is so damn true. Thanks for this great doc!
Thank you so much for the kind words. This was one of my favorite videos I made. Interesting to hear what was going on at the time. Thanks for sharing. I don’t know if you saw I do have other carpenters videos, including doc Yes, so true! I did do some other carpenters videos if you didn’t see them The Hidden Struggles Behind Carpenter's Iconic Album ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-lmKLU3yNwS4.html
In my opinion as a 22 yrs old,KC don't want the song because it reflects her life...KC suffered so much pain,even in her married life...she married the wrong guy...KC is my lady...had crush on her when i was 10..i searched all documentaries in her life,too...By the way,thank you so much for taking your time to discover The Life of THE CARPENTERS,too...especially to my Karen...Please don't forget to react I HAVE YOU by her..
Yeah, she just really was not lucky in love unfortunately but I guess that’s what made the music great. Beautiful inside and out and so talented. I definitely have I have you on my list! Thank you!
Thank you so much! I really went down the rabbit hole in that one. I don’t know if you saw it, but I did another Carpenters video The Hidden Struggles Behind Carpenter's Iconic Album ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-lmKLU3yNwS4.html
Your comment about how music conveys emotions reminds me of a quote I recently heard in a story about "Somewhere Over the Rainbow." The lyricist for that song, Yip Harberg said, "Words make you think a thought. Music makes you feel a feeling. But a song makes you feel a thought." I think that's brilliant. BTW Your channel deserves more attention than it's currently getting. I hope it takes off. You're fun and interesting. (Plus I kind of have a thing for pretty girls with pink hair.)
Wow, I really love that. That truly is beautiful. But that makes sense from an author of such a wonderful song!. And thank you so much for the kind words and encouragement:)
Wow, seeing this brought back some old memories that need dusting! People talked about the falling out in relation to this song when it was playing, but I totally forgot. Nice deep dive young Lady!
I really was interested in what y’all had to say about this. because coming from a fresh perspective, it was hard for me to not see this as a turning point, for carpenters, and especially Karen. But I also wasn’t there. Thank you for watching and for the input!
Been reading the comments and i hope your channel kicks in and you get a lot of subscribers. You do your research and work hard, truly hope it takes off. Best of luck, will keep watching ✔️
Your research was lovely and added much depth to my appreciation for this classic. I remember crying when I heard the details of her passing and I still get emotional listening to her angelic voice. Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us.
Thank you I appreciate that so much. That really was what I was going for adding a little shading into such a wonderful song and such talented people particularly Karen!
Even in death, Karen's story is still largely being told by men - particularly her brother. What she may have really thought and felt will never be known for sure but mostly the narrative is shaped by these men who loved and admired her, worked, controlled and exploited, criticized and mythologized her. Only when women talk and write about Karen, especially those who were personally close to her (and with whom she confided in) or have faced similar struggles do we have a clearer sense of this astonishingly talented woman and her deeply complicated journey.
I just read a little girl blue, which was so good and had a lot of interviews with her girlfriends which I thought was really invaluable. I talked about some of it in my latest Carpenters video Carpenter’s “A SONG for YOU” [Album DOCUMENTARY] ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-lmKLU3yNwS4.html
@emillion4470 13 minutes ago (edited) I just read "Why Karen Carpenter Matters" by Prof. Karen Tongson. It is a wonderfully succinct yet richly drawn double biography. More than a loving personal ode to her namesake it examines a whole country's strong and undying embrace of Karen and Richard's Music. It also explores what makes the Filipino psyche tick as it relates to a love of a specific singer or any genre of music. Prof. Tongson is an incisive, gifted and elegant writer.@@popcornphilosopher
Very informative with in-depth research and clip interviews, thank you so much for sharing this. 😊 Solitaire was and will always be one of Karen’s most outstanding & finest performances.
Wow. Thank you so much for doing this deep dive into the backstory behind this incredibly haunting and unforgettable Carpenters’ song. You added more pieces to the puzzle… yet simultaneously also added a measure of clarity by way of a lens to further listen, going forward. Isn’t it remarkable how this song never got near Number 1 on the billboard charts but we still find reasons to want to listen to it while hoping to somehow, someway unlock it “this time”? Of course, we never will but we just can’t stop trying with Richard’s gorgeous arrangement and Karen’s mesmerizing vocal interpretation of it. You hit it out of the park for those of us who hold this song and performance close. ❤
Thank you for the very kind comment! Really made my day! It really was/is a puzzle… that’s why it interested me so much in addition to it being heartbreakingly beautiful.
Hi, I’m new to your channel. Just watched the track by track analysis of “A Song For You”, which was so interesting and fascinating. That’s one of my favorite albums by the Carpenters. Now, getting to Solitaire, it’s really a Carpenters classic. I also happen to like Neil Sedaka’s music from the ‘60s and the ‘70s. Didn’t realize from your video that Solitaire would be their last top 20 charting record on Billboard. Enjoying your videos!
thank you I’m glad you enjoyed both videos. I have really been enjoying getting into the carpenters. and I’ve been so intrigued by their story, particularly Karen’s.
I had no idea that Karen had voice issues during the recording of “A Song For You”. It sounded pretty normal to me then, and even now. And also liked your analysis of “Road Ode”, which is an incredible album cut, as they use to say back in the day. Thanks again, I’ll be watching your channel.
I just want to thank you for doing such a great job with your research and the telling of the story behind Solitaire. This is an amazing, beautiful, haunting song and I can't believe it didn't hit number one. Maybe some one will re-release this song...I think it's one of their best and sorry Mr. Sedaka, but only Karen's voice and Richard's incredible arrangement could EVER do your song justice. I too, hope they (Richard and Neil) can make their peace. Thanks again.
Thank you so much that really means a lot to me! I did do one on a song for you if you haven’t seen that ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-lmKLU3yNwS4.htmlsi=SC4fn14WS3iD5L4_
I always loved Andy Williams version. Karen Carpenter had a great voice, no doubt, but Williams' voice owns the melody. Sedaka is a brilliant songwriter - one of my faves - his bubblegum from earlier in his career is brilliant and Solitare is probably the best of his 70s material.
I haven’t’ heard any Andy Williams before. But I did think he has a beautiful voice. I was just more emotionally connected to Karens but its of course it’s personal preference. I want to check out more of Sedaka’s songwriting for sure!
I always wanted to know how the different lyrics came out and never knew about the Andy Williams version. Thanks for adding all that layering to a truly great song.
Thank you for watching.! This was one of my favorite videos! Such a good song. I have another Carpenters video if you haven’t seen it The Hidden Struggles Behind Carpenter's Iconic Album ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-lmKLU3yNwS4.html
Io I want to thank you for taking the time to go in depth in the history of this song regardless what the facts of the truth and underline truth I love the way you presented it Thank you so very much❤ Eric
Thank you! I actually found out it went back even further. Dont know if you saw my recent video.“A SONG for YOU” [Album DOCUMENTARY] ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-lmKLU3yNwS4.html
Wonderful and great insight into the Carpenter's and Neil's career. I had heard years ago, that Karen never liked the song, and right away, I thought that was a song about her, in the lyrics, and not a man. Karen in her voice, when she sings the song, she is feeling it. Of course, she does that in all of her songs. Karen was the song and the emotion in the songs. She passed too soon.
Thank you! This was one of my favorite videos I made. Yes I would have like nothing better than to have seen Karen lived a happy l fulfilling life! If you haven’t seen it I posted Carpenter’s “A SONG for YOU” [Album DOCUMENTARY] ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-lmKLU3yNwS4.html
You could see in that interview that Karen was so emaciated. Her slide had been going on for years prior to that. Thank you for this interesting information. I knew that Karen never liked the song but never knew why.
I’m so sorry I missed this! Thank you! I’m actually working on another carpenters video that will come soon. but I don’t know if you saw it there was the other one I made ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-lmKLU3yNwS4.htmlsi=SC4fn14WS3iD5L4_
Well researched! - I, for one, didn't notice this detail - even though as a big fan among millions of other big fans I tried to know a lot about her sad story. And to be honest, for the first few seconds of the first part of the song presentation, I wasn't sure whether you personally as a commentator would be able to cope with the immense impact of this "solitaire" among "solitaires". But both the first and now the second part have demonstrated your respectful and dignified approach to this sensitive subject. My respect, keep up the good work!
Sorry I missed this! That means so much to me… that’s really what I wanted! I’m actually working on the new Carpenters video that will come soon:) Although I did do another if you haven’t seen it ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-lmKLU3yNwS4.htmlsi=SC4fn14WS3iD5L4_
Bravo for this "masterpiece" of a deep dive into a classic masterpiece of a song and a voice that will never again be duplicated. .wonderful 2 part insight !
Thanks you I am so glad you liked it! One of my favorite videos! , I recently also did a song for you album ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-lmKLU3yNwS4.htmlsi=PYKQ3KDAzjROeIS5
The fragment of the Neil Sedaka interview shown in this video review of the Carpenters' version of "Solitaire" fails to indicate whether or not Sedaka mentioned in that interview the real reasons that Richard Carpenter fired Neil Sedaka - it was not because Sedaka was getting standing ovations - when Sedaka was opening for the Carpenters - specifically that (1) Sedaka improperly as the opening act would introduce the celebrities in the audience which is an absolute no-no in show business - that honor/privalege is supposed to go to the headlining act NOT the opening act and (2) Sedaka broke one of the keys on Richard Carpenter's piano which understandably infuriated Richard! So when Sedaka crossed the line of proper etiquette by introducing celebrities in the audience, Richard understandably viewed that as "the last straw" and fired Sedaka! Despite the fact that Crysalis Records producer Terry Ellis (who dated Karen for a while) told Richard that he made a major mistake in firing Sedaka from the Carpenters' tour because Sedaka was a big music star and that the public would view Sedaka as the "victim" in the dispute, one can easily understand Richard's anger that Sedaka acted totally improperly! It also undoubtedly irritated Richard and Karen that Sedaka would drive up to the venue where he was opening for the Carpenters in his Rolls Royce car which was a clear indication that he was definitely attempting to upstage the Carpenters! That's how massively huge Sedaka's ego is!! No wonder that Richard ordered Sherwin Bash, the Carpenters' then manager, to fire Sedaka!!
Yes, it was definitely a complicated situation. And complicated situations very rarely play out fairly in the public eye… I do think it was a turning point for Carpenters. Btw I did one more on a song for you if you didn’t see it ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-lmKLU3yNwS4.htmlsi=JF4yE5ADtyfXitFF
@@popcornphilosopher I agree with your assessment... Having been oblivious to those details at the time, I had a very hard time as a fan trying to figure out why that song just died on the charts when it was such a superior recording. Granted - it wasn't that lighthearted of a summer tune, but 17 - I mean - that was a brutal chart performance, and it seems clear to me that your thoughts on programmers pulling the song makes perfect sense - particularly, when '75 was THE year for Sedaka & he had all this positive momentum in the press. Truthfully, booking such a hot and vivaciously trending performer as their opening act was part of the mistake. Maybe if RC would have just let bygones be bygones, Solitaire could have ridden the Sedaka wave - shot up to top ten, setting the stage for better performances for their next few albums. We'll never know. Sometimes - - reactive decisions can make so much sense at the time, but long term repercussions take a while to rear their ugly heads... Thanks for the well thought out analysis... Good job!
I got "Carpenters - The Musical Legacy" Just two days ago and read it through. I had the same feeling when I read what Richard said about "Solitaire" and Karen's distaste for it: maybe it hit a little too close to home... Karen's rebellious whirlwind courtship and marriage were mentioned briefly in the book (which was not intended to be BIOGRAPHICAL, but literally "The MUSICAL Legacy"). When you saw the tours and the concerts and the studio time and the television shows crammed into their schedule from the time they were TEENS... well, clearly there was little to no time for relationships. And, well... in her need, she made a bad choice, a man who did not want the same things that she did, and surely would not stand by patiently while her career played out. But just the fact that she flew into that whole relationship was a sign that there were so many unfulfilled desires below the surface that she didn't make too much of outwardly. She'd have liked to live TWO lives, simultaneously (and wouldn't so many of us?): one with her brother and their music, a gift of herself to everyone - and simultaneously live a "normal" suburban life with a house, a husband, kids and a dog. Family dinners, trips to Disneyland, and Christmas mornings... I don't think we ever learned how torn Karen was between those competing desires. Not until the physical manifestation of her internal conflicts became too much for her poor body to bear...
Her story was a sad story but she left it behind. Such beautiful music. That was such a good book! Along with little girl blue. I used both those books for a video I’m working on and one already made. The Hidden Struggles Behind Carpenter's Iconic Album ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-lmKLU3yNwS4.html
This was tremendous. I grew up listening to Neil, The Carpenters, Olivia Newton-John (whom Karen mentioned briefly in the Joan London interview), and other of that 70s Pop ilk. Neil's catalogue is incredible - his early-career tunes from the 50s, but especially his more mature songs of the 70s. His reinterpretation of his Breaking Up Is Hard to Do may be my favorite. His partnerships with Howard Greenfield and Phil Cody yielded so many great songs; worthy of one of your "rabbit holes."
Thank you I am glad you liked it. I’d like to get more into Olivia’s music. I haven’t heard a whole album from her. And Interesting I love a good songwriting partnership! I look forward to checking that out!
Thank you so very much for this sensitive journey perspective of this moving and gorgeous song by Neil Sedaka and sung to perfection by Karen Carpenter. You gave a wealth of information for which I am grateful . ❤️
I’m so very glad you liked it! This is one of my favorite videos. & I actually just made a new Carpenters one if you haven’t seen it. “A SONG for YOU” [Album DOCUMENTARY] ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-lmKLU3yNwS4.html
@@popcornphilosopher Thanks for the link. I actually did view it. You are really enjoyable to listen to with tons of great info I thought I already knew. :)
@@popcornphilosopher 😀LOL yeah I know started out as a classical, jazz, and blasts from the past platform as a hobby, LOL But I was told about a twelve year old singer songwriter that won with nothing but original compositions on AGT. That being of course Grace VanderWaal, I created a mini documentary on this compositional prodigy And low and behold The VanderWaal fans adopted my channel. But I am easing back into my original creative perimeters. Lol However you should check her out, at Nineteen she is already considered to be in the upper tier of compositional Artists in the music industry. Also composed original songs for the Disney movie Star Girl and its sequel. ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-o2FM4Sj4hqY.html
I saw Karen and Richard in 1975 in Saratoga Springs, NY and snuck backstage to meet them. Neil was the opening act and he was energetic, upbeat, happy, and giving the audience all the positivity he could. Karen and Richard, however, were both having more personal issues, Karen's eating disorder and his quaalude addiction. Their performance was lackluster and robotic. So, of course the audience seemed to enjoy Neil's performance more. Yeah, he had an ego, but it was kind of funny more than offensive.
That’s still really cool that you got to see them live though! I actually found out why they performed that way in the book little girl blue. I talk about it at the end of my latest Carpenters video “A SONG for YOU” [Album DOCUMENTARY] ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-lmKLU3yNwS4.html
I commend you for the research you into the controversy of this song. I was in my mid twenties when thus great song was released by the Carpenters, and I knew nothing about this at that time.
I thought it was an interesting moment and it seemed pretty pivotal. I don’t know if you saw it but I posted a video about song for you which was another real pivotal moment. ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-lmKLU3yNwS4.htmlsi=xkhFCUEC9U5Nrg6B
Karen, who did not like the song Solitaire, which Neil Sedaka had written and recorded. It turned out that Karen's version, even though she hated the song, Karen out-sang Neil and Andy Williams' versions.
@@kkeenan5618 The Carpenters had more hits than Neil, who had a longer career too. That pretty much settles the question. Listen to the song they both recorded, "Solitaire." Karen makes it her song, even though Neil wrote it.
Are you related to Rose McGowan, or are you just her vocal twin? You probably don't even know who she is, and it doesn't really matter. It's not a bad thing. Just it's uncanny, like the X-Men. On this video, and the one before it. That's where I started, Karen Carpenter she makes me nostalgic, and takes me back to 1980, 81. Somewhere around then, and you're funny by the way..
You need to read The Carpenters:Their Untold Story by Ray Coleman to read about Richard's version of the Sedaka incident, where he broke some piano keys, introducing two major celebs when it was the Headliner's job (the Carpenters!)....
That was a fun rabbit hole to go down. I made another Carpenters video after this one, if you didn’t see it.The Hidden Struggles Behind Carpenter's Iconic Album ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-lmKLU3yNwS4.html
I don’t see any Angelina Jordan reactions on your channel. Have you heard of AJ ? She is one of the best vocalists I have ever heard of. She won Norways Got Talent at the age of 8! Check out her version of “Summer Time “ age 8 or her cover of Elvis Suspicious Minds age 16 I believe.
It’s definitely on my list! I did do A song for you Album if you haven’t seen it! Carpenters playlist ru-vid.com/group/PLVaDWMlhe6SFTC0hs-Qb0pvbwSK6AK1DK
Carpenters had a bunch of hit songs. You like unusual... ... I have a band for you.. Versailles philharmonic quintet. They are a Japanese Visual Kei bands that plays Melodic Symphonic Power Metal. And their theme of the band is They are Vampires from the Baroque Era with neoclassical elements to their songs the most interesting thing is one of the guitarists named Hizaki, you won't believe it when you see him, he stands out like nothing you ever saw before, and yes he is a man. Recommend checking out any of these songs Revenant Choir Serenade Destiny the Lovers Masquerade
Ohhh I didn’t know about Tom Jones. I heard that is why Neil was fired because he introduced Tom Jones and he wasn’t supposed to announce the celebrities in the audience
