Hey music lovers! Are you looking to download the iconic track "Close to You" by The Carpenters? You've come to the right place! This song isn't just a tune; it's a piece of musical history, a heartwarming ballad that has touched millions of souls across generations. In this article, we'll explore why "Close to You" remains so beloved, how you can easily download it, and some fascinating facts about the song and the legendary duo, The Carpenters.

Why "Close to You" Still Resonates Today

"Close to You," released in 1970, catapulted The Carpenters to international fame and has since become one of their signature songs. But what makes this song so enduringly popular? Several factors contribute to its timeless appeal:

• Karen Carpenter's Vocals: At the heart of "Close to You" is Karen Carpenter's unforgettable voice. Her crystal-clear tone, perfect pitch, and emotional delivery create an intimate and deeply moving listening experience. Karen's vocal performance is often described as angelic, and it's a major reason why the song continues to resonate with listeners of all ages.
• The Melodic Arrangement: The song's arrangement, crafted by Burt Bacharach and Hal David, is nothing short of brilliant. The gentle melody, coupled with lush orchestration, creates a warm and comforting atmosphere. The use of soft strings, gentle percussion, and subtle harmonies all contribute to the song's overall beauty and emotional impact.
• Lyrical Simplicity and Universality: The lyrics of "Close to You" are deceptively simple, yet they capture a universal feeling – the overwhelming joy and wonder of being close to someone you love. The song speaks to the human desire for connection and intimacy, making it relatable to anyone who has ever experienced the magic of love. Lines like "Why do stars fall down from the sky? Every time you walk by" evoke a sense of childlike wonder and enchantment.
• Nostalgia and Timelessness: "Close to You" evokes a sense of nostalgia for many listeners, reminding them of simpler times and cherished memories. The song's timeless quality ensures that it remains relevant and appealing to new generations of music lovers. Its themes of love, longing, and connection are universal and transcend cultural and generational boundaries.
• Cultural Impact: Beyond its musical qualities, "Close to You" has had a significant impact on popular culture. It has been featured in countless films, television shows, and commercials, further cementing its status as a beloved classic. The song's enduring popularity is a testament to its power to evoke emotions and create lasting memories.

The combination of these elements – Karen Carpenter's vocals, the melodic arrangement, lyrical simplicity, nostalgia, and cultural impact – explains why "Close to You" continues to captivate audiences and remains a staple on playlists around the world. It's a song that speaks to the heart and reminds us of the beauty and power of love.

How to Download "Close to You"

Okay, so you're ready to add this classic to your music library. Here's how you can download "Close to You" legally and easily:

1. Digital Music Stores: The most straightforward way to download the song is through popular digital music stores like:
   • iTunes/Apple Music: If you're an Apple user, the iTunes Store is your go-to option. Simply search for "Close to You Carpenters," purchase the song, and download it directly to your device.
   • Amazon Music: Amazon Music offers a vast library of songs, including "Close to You." You can purchase the song as an individual track or sign up for Amazon Music Unlimited to stream it and download it for offline listening.
   • Google Play Music/YouTube Music: Google's music platform also offers "Close to You" for purchase. You can download the song and add it to your Google Play Music library.
2. Streaming Services: While not technically downloading, subscribing to a streaming service allows you to listen to "Close to You" offline. Here are a few popular options:
   • Spotify: Spotify Premium allows you to download songs for offline playback. Search for "Close to You Carpenters" and add it to your downloaded playlist.
   • Apple Music: As mentioned earlier, Apple Music lets you download songs for offline listening. This is a great option if you're already invested in the Apple ecosystem.
   • Deezer: Deezer offers a similar download feature for premium subscribers. You can download "Close to You" and listen to it without an internet connection.
3. Legal Music Download Sites: There are various websites that offer legal music downloads. Make sure to choose reputable sources to avoid copyright issues. Some examples include:
   • Qobuz: Qobuz offers high-resolution audio downloads, including "Close to You." This is a great option if you're an audiophile looking for the best possible sound quality.
   • HDtracks: Similar to Qobuz, HDtracks specializes in high-resolution audio downloads. You can find "Close to You" and other Carpenters classics in various high-quality formats.

Important Note: Avoid downloading music from illegal or unauthorized sources. These sites often offer low-quality files and may contain malware or viruses. Supporting artists by purchasing their music or subscribing to streaming services ensures that they can continue creating the music we love.

A Little Background on The Carpenters

Before you hit that download button, let's dive a little deeper into the story of The Carpenters, the sibling duo behind this timeless hit.

The Carpenters consisted of siblings Karen and Richard Carpenter. Karen's mesmerizing vocals and Richard's instrumental arrangements and songwriting skills formed a unique and commercially successful sound. Here are some key aspects of their journey:

• Early Beginnings: Richard and Karen Carpenter grew up in New Haven, Connecticut, and later moved to Downey, California. Richard developed an interest in music early on, studying piano and later attending California State University, Long Beach, where he studied music.
• Formation and Early Struggles: The siblings formed a band called the Richard Carpenter Trio in the mid-1960s, which won a Battle of the Bands competition at the Hollywood Bowl. However, they struggled to find mainstream success until they refined their sound and focused on Karen's vocals.
• Breakthrough with "(They Long to Be) Close to You": In 1969, The Carpenters signed with A&M Records, and in 1970, they released "(They Long to Be) Close to You." The song became a massive hit, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart and launching them into international stardom.
• String of Hits: Following the success of "Close to You," The Carpenters released a string of hit songs throughout the 1970s, including "We've Only Just Begun," "Rainy Days and Mondays," "Top of the World," and "Yesterday Once More." Their music dominated the airwaves and made them one of the most successful musical acts of the decade.
• Unique Sound: The Carpenters' sound was characterized by Karen's smooth and expressive vocals, Richard's intricate arrangements, and their use of lush harmonies. They blended pop, soft rock, and easy listening elements to create a unique and commercially appealing style.
• Tragic Loss: Despite their success, The Carpenters faced personal challenges. Karen struggled with anorexia nervosa, an eating disorder that was not well understood at the time. Her health deteriorated, and she tragically passed away in 1983 at the age of 32. Her death brought increased awareness to eating disorders and their devastating consequences.
• Legacy: The Carpenters left behind a rich musical legacy that continues to inspire and delight listeners around the world. Their songs have stood the test of time and remain popular on radio stations, streaming services, and in films and television shows. They have sold over 100 million records worldwide, making them one of the best-selling musical acts of all time.

The Carpenters' story is one of musical brilliance, sibling harmony, and ultimately, tragedy. Their music continues to touch hearts and evoke emotions, reminding us of the power of love, loss, and the enduring quality of great songs.

Fun Facts About "Close to You"

To make your download even more special, here are some fun facts about "Close to You" that you might not know:

• Bacharach and David's Magic Touch: "Close to You" was written by the legendary songwriting duo Burt Bacharach and Hal David. They were known for their sophisticated and timeless compositions, and "Close to You" is a perfect example of their genius. Other famous songs by Bacharach and David include "Raindrops Keep Fallin' on My Head," "Walk On By," and "Do You Know the Way to San Jose?"
• Originally Offered to Dionne Warwick: Believe it or not, "Close to You" was originally offered to Dionne Warwick, another iconic singer known for her interpretations of Bacharach and David songs. However, Warwick turned it down, and the song eventually found its way to The Carpenters.
• Richard's Arrangement: Richard Carpenter's arrangement of "Close to You" is a key element of its success. He added the lush orchestration, the gentle percussion, and the signature piano intro that make the song so recognizable.
• Number One Hit: "Close to You" reached the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in July 1970 and remained there for four weeks. It was The Carpenters' first number one hit and helped to establish them as major stars.
• Grammy Award: The Carpenters won a Grammy Award for Best New Artist in 1971, largely due to the success of "Close to You." The song also received nominations for Record of the Year and Song of the Year.
• Cover Versions: "Close to You" has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Isaac Hayes, Stevie Wonder, and B. J. Thomas. Each artist brings their own unique interpretation to the song, but The Carpenters' version remains the most iconic.
• Use in Films and Television: "Close to You" has been featured in countless films and television shows, including "Forrest Gump," "The Simpsons," and "Mad Men." Its use in these productions has helped to introduce the song to new generations of listeners.

These fun facts add another layer of appreciation to "Close to You" and highlight its significance in music history. When you download and listen to the song, you're not just hearing a beautiful melody; you're experiencing a piece of cultural history.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it! "Close to You" by The Carpenters is more than just a song; it's an emotional experience, a nostalgic trip, and a testament to the power of music. Whether you're a long-time fan or a new listener, downloading this track is a great way to keep this timeless classic alive. Enjoy the beautiful vocals of Karen Carpenter and the magical arrangement by Richard Carpenter. Happy listening!