About the song
The song “We’ve Only Just Begun” by the Carpenters is one of the most iconic and beloved tracks in the history of pop music. Originally released in 1970, this timeless classic quickly became a signature song for the duo, cementing their place in the hearts of millions of fans around the world. The Carpenters, comprised of siblings Karen and Richard Carpenter, brought a unique blend of Karen’s warm, expressive vocals and Richard’s sophisticated arrangements, creating a sound that was both soothing and powerful.
“We’ve Only Just Begun” first captured the public’s attention when it was featured in a television commercial for a California bank. The song’s gentle melody and hopeful lyrics resonated deeply with audiences, and it wasn’t long before the Carpenters recorded their own version. The song was written by the legendary songwriting duo Paul Williams and Roger Nichols, who crafted a message of optimism and new beginnings that perfectly matched the Carpenters’ wholesome image.
When the Carpenters performed “We’ve Only Just Begun” on *The Ed Sullivan Show*, it marked a significant moment in their career. *The Ed Sullivan Show* was one of the most popular television programs of its time, known for showcasing the biggest stars in the entertainment industry. Appearing on this show was a milestone for any artist, and for the Carpenters, it provided an opportunity to reach an even wider audience.
Karen Carpenter’s voice, often described as angelic and pure, was the centerpiece of the performance. Her delivery of the lyrics, filled with sincerity and emotion, captured the essence of the song’s message: a celebration of love, commitment, and the promise of a bright future. Richard Carpenter’s arrangement, with its lush harmonies and delicate piano accompaniment, complemented Karen’s vocals beautifully, creating a performance that was both simple and profoundly moving.
The song’s lyrics, “We’ve only just begun to live, white lace and promises, a kiss for luck and we’re on our way,” spoke directly to the hopes and dreams of newlyweds, making it a popular choice for weddings. Beyond its romantic appeal, the song also became an anthem of optimism, encouraging listeners to look forward to the future with confidence and joy.
The Carpenters’ performance of “We’ve Only Just Begun” on *The Ed Sullivan Show* not only showcased their exceptional talent but also solidified their reputation as one of the leading musical acts of the 1970s. The song went on to become a major hit, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning a place in the Grammy Hall of Fame.
To this day, “We’ve Only Just Begun” remains a beloved classic, a testament to the enduring appeal of the Carpenters’ music and the universal themes of love and hope that they so beautifully conveyed. Whether it’s heard at a wedding or simply enjoyed on the radio, the song continues to inspire and uplift, reminding us all that with love and determination, the best is always yet to come.
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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 risin’ sun, we fly
So many roads to choose
We’ll start out walkin’ 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
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