Whether young or old, there are moments when we find ourselves needing to spend time in the past. So many things can trigger what we call a “yearning for returning”, but perhaps nothing can take us there quite like music. Of course we cannot re-live the past but a few minutes (or an hour or two) in la la land with certain memories is wonderful…and it’s as close as we can get without jumping into a time machine. We’ve not seen one of those lately!
We had a unique opportunity to enjoy some of these memory moments last week as we attended a concert which was a tribute to The Carpenters, Richard and Karen. Their music helped define the 1970’s, with their first hit coming in ’70, the year we met. As much as we loved the music of The Carpenters, we were never able to hear them in person. But thankfully, there are super talented singers and musicians who recognize the legacy of Richard and Karen’s music and perform it in such a way that makes us feel that it is “yesterday once more”.
The Oxford Performing Arts Center is a remarkable venue in Oxford Alabama. We recently heard Home Free there, and what an evening of fun that was. Last week, we were thrilled to once again attend a concert at the Center to hear We’ve Only Just Begun, The Carpenters Remembered. Michelle Berting Brett and band do a fabulous job and delivered a stunning tribute to the Carpenters both musically and otherwise, relating songs and stories.
Shows like this are special for wonderful entertainment, stirring up fond memories, and just a good ole time, but for us a bit more. Music was so instrumental (no pun intended) in our first meeting, our first date, getting to know each other, and yes…falling in love. That love, and our love of music remains strong, 52 years later.
With lyrics like “We’ve only just begun to live, white lace and promises, a kiss for luck and we’re on our way”, it’s no wonder this was one of the most popular songs to be sung at weddings in the 70’s. Pam remembers singing it at many weddings. “We’ve Only Just Begun” was The Carpenters’ second hit behind “Close To You” which was their first release in March, 1970, rising to number one on the charts by July.
While immersing ourselves in the music and enjoying our memories of days gone by, we hope and believe we were also creating new memories. That said, our not quite 6 year old Ella Mae attended the concert with us. We do believe that she was the youngest person in the audience! The kind usher that seated us was shocked when we told her that EM loved the Carpenters’ music and knew all the words to several of the songs!
“Yesterday Once More” was a favorite of ours and I believe a crowd favorite because the song itself pays tribute to 60’s music. Most people who were old enough to love and appreciate The Carpenters probably grew up and cut their teeth on 60’s songs! O’ the days of vinyl…and it’s making a comeback.
If the Carpenters Remembered tour comes “Close To You”, we highly recommend you make an effort to attend. Without a doubt Carpenters’ fans would be mainly folks who were around and enjoying music in the 70’s. After all, they did sell around 100 million records in that decade. But, their music transcends generations and is still enjoyed by young and old. Ella Mae can attest to that, as well as Pam’s dad who is 91!
If you had to give your opinion on the best female voice of all time, would there be a clear choice? This is a difficult question and maybe not a fair one to even ask…but we both agree that Karen Carpenter would be in our top 3. And without a doubt, Richard is a super talented musical genius who can produce and arrange right alongside the very best! Karen’s passing just before her 33rd birthday was certainly a sad tragedy that is forever in our memory.
While these memories sometimes seem “long ago and oh so far away”, Michelle and band provided a sweet and memorable time for the here and now!
On a side note…The Carpenters 2 CD “Christmas Collection” is still the most played Christmas music at our house year after year.
Linking with:
Pieced Pastimes, Between Naps on the Porch, Katherines Corner, Follow The Yellow Brick Home,
Imparting Grace,Life and Linda
That was a walk down memory lane I sure enjoyed! My car radio is set to 60s and 70s all the time. John and I enjoy seeing tribute bands at our performing arts center too…Buddy Holly, Temptations, Drifters, the Platters. The Drifters asked if anybody wanted to dance with them, and I jumped up on stage and danced solo with them to Mustang Sally!! John still has not recovered from that one! I am really happy the Princess is enjoying good music 💕
Roxanne, our radios are always tuned to the 60’s and 70’s. I would have loved to see you dancing with the Drifters…are there photos?
I hope you are healing, take care my friend.
What a beautiful evening and how precious E loved it, too. It’s so soothing to slip into the music past (and how reaffirming to the love!). I am absolutely a fan of The Carpenter’s and share the same opinion of her voice being at the top (I’m also a fan of Anne Murray). I’m so glad you had this experience and shared it with all of us! Music today just does not evoke the same feelings of those from yesteryears. Blessings and love! 💛🙏🏻
Thank you, Karla. I also love Anne Murray’s voice. It is soothing to slip into the music past. Have a wonderful Tuesday…love and hugs 💛🙏🏻
You’re welcome, Pam. I’m so glad to “see” you today! Thank you, too. 🤗💛
Who didn’t love the Carpenters, it must have been such a delightful evening and the fact that Ella Mae enjoys the same music is a tribute to their mass appeal! The 70s was such a great decade for music, the show sounds amazing!
Jenna
Thank you, Jenna. I agree 70’s music was great. Have a wonderful day!
I loved the Carpenters too. That must have been a wonderful concert!
Thank you, Penny. It was truly a wonderful concert!
So glad you had such a wonderful experience. The Carpenters were great! Such a tragedy that Karen’s health issue wasn’t addressed in time to save her life. Their music was indeed a staple for weddings in the 70’s. We still listen to their music too. EM will remember that concert fondly. Enjoy your day! Clara ❤️
Thank you, Clara. Karen was so young when she passed away. It was so tragic.
What a wonderful occasion. I’m so glad EM was able to attend with you — and loved it! I thnk so many of us were and are Carpenter fans — the music is just so good. Timeless. I’m so glad you were able to see this, enjoy it. And thanks for sharing about it. I’ll keep an eye out.
Thanks so much, Jeanie. Timeless music for sure!
How wonderful to have this night to enjoy. I love the Carpenters and had all their albums. Yep Albums!!! Dating myself. Their music spoke to our hearts. I wish this would come to the midwest. Have a good week. xoxo Kris
Yes, those albums would be wonderful if you still have them. Thanks, Kris!
I was, am, and always will be a fan of The Carpenters! In the 70s I thought they were SO great, and I still think so today. I have several of their songs on my playlist, and I can even play a couple on piano. I could relate to Karen’s struggles with anorexia, and I think that’s what drew me in even deeper. She had an amazing voice, and she & Richard harmonized like angels. How wonderful for you to be able to go back in time just a bit and recreate that special feeling that comes with music like this that had an innocence, a sweetness about it. Even MORE wonderful that the young ones have developed an appreciation!
There was so much great music in the 60’s and 70’s. I had sheet music for many of their songs and would play them on the piano for hours. I read that her battle with anorexia brought attention to the disease, which was much needed.
We are to be forgiven for making comparisons – then was then and now is now…. but how fortunate we were to have the music we did, music worthy of remembrance and repetition. The Carpenters left us a legacy of songs that were
wedding-worthy and it is not surprising that EM caught the message… timeless. Thanks to you, she’s “only just begun” .. Bless you for this walk down memory’s lane.h
Thank you, Mary. I still love singing along with Karen. Sweet memories!
Oh how I loved the Carpenters! What a wonderful concert. And how fabulous to share this night with EM! I will pay attention to see if they come near us.
We just saw the British Invasion Tour. Another great one to see.
Thanks for taking us down memory lane!
I know you love music. Music evokes wonderful memories of times past.
It sure does! 60’s and 70’s is my Radio Station… with a little splash Of Jon Bon Jovi… because he only sings to me. 😀
Oh I too loved hearing the music of the late Karen C. and her brother Richard. There is something about music that ignites our very souls to the deepest and songs of the past surely bring back many, many memories. Happy Resurrection Day to you and Pam. Hugs and blessings, Cindy
Thanks so much, Cindy. Blessings and hugs~
Couldn’t get your post on the Carpenters yesterday. A gremlin interfered. I thought and still do that Karen’s voice was never forced just pure lyrical sound that came out of her mouth. I clearly remember where and what I was doing when I heard the announcement on my radio. That station played only the Carpenters music the rest of the day. I was shocked and I believe so was the rest of our nation. We are praying for two girls that have anorexia. One is down to 90 pounds. Anorexia is and awful thing. I’m so proud of EM that she can sing along with Karen. I bet she sings along with you Butch. What is her favorite song to sing with you?
.
I agree about Karen’s voice. It always seemed effortless and is timeless. I am sorry to read of the two girls battling anorexia. Prayers for them! EM loves to sing whatever we are singing. She can hear it one time and remember the words of the chorus. Her favorite Carpenter’s song is Rainy Days and Mondays!
Music is the love language of the universe and what a trip down memory lane you two had along with Miss EM. I loved the Carpenters and Karen had such a smooth and angelic sound. Love their music. I am delighted that you were able to enjoy this special time. Bob and I love music especially the 60’s and 70’s. Delightful post! Let the music fill our hearts.
Thank you, Dianne. Karen’s voice is truly timeless. We love the 60’s and 70’s music, it was great music!
It sounds like you all had a wonderful time. I think it is so special that Miss Ella Mae shares your love of music. I know she must of had a great time at the concert. Wishing you and your dear family a Happy Easter!
We love making memories…thank you dear one!
Good music stands the test of time, doesn’t it! I’m always amazed and some of the oldies my grandchildren enjoy.
Yes, it does. Easter blessings, Donna!
Precious time! Wonderful concert!
Yes, it was a wonderful time!
How very special for you. Butch and Ella Mae to attend the concert. The Carpenters were an icon and I loved them. Karen’s voice was like an angel. Such a shame she faced health concerns and passed so young. Wishing you and your sweet family a very happy and blessed Easter.
Thank you, Linda. It was a sweet time making memories. Easter blessings my friend!
I wasn’t really into their music too much, but I still remember being at my brother’s house when I was a very little girl and him being so upset that Karen Carpenter had died. That memory really stands out to me. They certainly were/are very loved. It is so sweet that little Ella Mae loves their music! And how wonderful that she was able to go with you to the concert!
I was in high school when the Carpenters had their first hit. I love her voice, so soothing!