Karen Carpenter

Carpenter drumming on stage, early 1970s

Promotional photograph of Carpenter from 1973

The Carpenters' star at the Hollywood Walk of Fame

Karen Carpenter (March 2, 1950 – February 4, 1983) was an American singer and drummer, who, along with her brother Richard, formed the duo The Carpenters. She was known for her contralto vocal range and her skills as a drummer. Karen's voice was admired for its clarity and emotional depth, which, combined with The Carpenters' melodic pop, created a distinctive sound that made them one of the best-selling music artists of all time.

Early Life

Karen Anne Carpenter was born in New Haven, Connecticut, and moved with her family to Downey, California, in 1963. She began playing the drums in high school and joined the school band, where she met her future musical partner and brother, Richard Carpenter. Together, they formed the jazz-oriented Richard Carpenter Trio before evolving into the pop duo The Carpenters in the late 1960s.

Career

The Carpenters signed with A&M Records in 1969, and their career took off with the release of their second album, Close to You, in 1970. This album featured hits such as "(They Long to Be) Close to You" and "We've Only Just Begun", which became synonymous with the duo. Over the next decade, Karen and Richard produced a string of successful albums and singles, including "Top of the World", "Yesterday Once More", and "Rainy Days and Mondays".

Despite their success, Karen struggled with personal issues, including her battle with anorexia nervosa, a then relatively unknown eating disorder. Her condition worsened in the late 1970s and early 1980s, affecting her health and her ability to perform.

Death and Legacy

Karen Carpenter died on February 4, 1983, at the age of 32 from heart failure caused by complications related to anorexia. Her death brought much-needed attention to eating disorders and their treatment. Karen is remembered as one of the greatest female vocalists of all time, and her music continues to be celebrated worldwide. The Carpenters' legacy is marked by their timeless music and Karen's unique voice, which remains influential in the music industry.

Discography

The Carpenters' discography includes numerous studio albums, live albums, compilations, and singles. Some of their most notable albums include Close to You (1970), Carpenters (1971), A Song for You (1972), and Horizon (1975).

Impact on Music and Culture

Karen Carpenter's impact on music and culture extends beyond her vocal talent and musicianship. She broke gender barriers in the music industry, particularly as a female drummer in a prominent band. Her struggle with anorexia also highlighted the pressures faced by women in the public eye and contributed to increased awareness and understanding of eating disorders.

See Also

• The Carpenters
• Richard Carpenter
• Anorexia Nervosa
• List of best-selling music artists