Introduction
The Carpenters, the iconic sibling duo of Karen and Richard Carpenter, produced numerous hits during the 1970s, with “We’ve Only Just Begun” and “Top of the World” standing out as two of their most celebrated tracks.
“We’ve Only Just Begun” originated from an unexpected sourceāa television commercial. In 1970, songwriters Paul Williams and Roger Nichols were commissioned to create a song for a Crocker National Bank advertisement targeting young couples. The commercial featured a wedding scene with Williams’s vocals delivering the memorable lines. Richard Carpenter saw the ad and, recognizing Williams’s voice, inquired about the song’s full version. Upon learning it had additional verses and a bridge, the Carpenters decided to record it. Released in August 1970, their rendition soared to No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became a signature wedding anthem for a generation.
“Top of the World” showcases the Carpenters’ foray into country-pop. Co-written by Richard Carpenter and John Bettis, the song was initially an album track on their 1972 release “A Song for You.” Country artist Lynn Anderson covered it, achieving significant success on the country charts. This prompted the Carpenters to release their own single version in September 1973, which featured a re-recorded lead vocal by Karen Carpenter. Their version climbed to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking their second chart-topping single.
Both songs exemplify the Carpenters’ ability to blend heartfelt lyrics with melodic compositions, solidifying their legacy in pop music history.