“It’s Too Late” by Carole King 1962

About the song

Carole King’s “It’s Too Late” is more than just a song; it’s a timeless masterpiece that has resonated with listeners for generations. This poignant ballad, featured on her iconic album Tapestry, delves into the complexities of a relationship on the brink of collapse. With its introspective lyrics and soulful melody, King paints a vivid picture of a love that has faded, leaving both parties to grapple with the painful realization that it’s simply too late to mend what’s broken.

The song opens with a gentle piano accompaniment, setting a melancholic tone that perfectly mirrors the emotional turmoil experienced by the narrator. King’s heartfelt vocals convey a sense of longing and regret as she sings about missed opportunities and the weight of unspoken words. The lyrics, filled with imagery and metaphors, evoke a deep sense of empathy in the listener. When King sings, “Now it’s too late, baby, now it’s too late,” she captures the universal experience of feeling powerless in the face of a lost love.

One of the most striking aspects of “It’s Too Late” is its ability to transcend time and connect with listeners on a personal level. The song’s themes of heartbreak, regret, and the passage of time are timeless, and they continue to resonate with audiences today. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Carole King or discovering her music for the first time, this song is sure to leave a lasting impression.

“It’s Too Late” is a testament to Carole King’s songwriting genius and her ability to convey complex emotions with simplicity and grace. It’s a song that invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences with love and loss, and it serves as a reminder that even the most cherished relationships can sometimes come to an end.

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Lyrics

Stayed in bed all morning just to pass the time
There’s something wrong here, there can be no denying
One of us is changing, or maybe we’ve just stopped trying

And it’s too late, baby, now it’s too late
Though we really did try to make it
Something inside has died and I can’t hide
And I just can’t fake it, Oh no no

It used to be so easy living here with you
You were light and breezy and I knew just what to do
Now you look so unhappy, and I feel like a fool

And it’s too late, baby, now it’s too late
Though we really did try to make it
Something inside has died and I can’t hide
And I just can’t fake it, oh no no

There’ll be good times again for me and you
But we just can’t stay together, don’t you feel it too
Still I’m glad for what we had, and how I once loved you

But it’s too late, baby, now it’s too late
Though we really did try to make it
Something inside has died and I can’t hide
And I just can’t fake it, Oh no no no no no

It’s too late
Baby
It’s too late
Now darling
It’s too late