For those of you who are familiar with the music of The Carpenters, the brother and sister duo Richard and Karen Carpenter that had a number of hit songs in the 70's, the song, "Now," may not be one you recognize. It was actually one of the last songs that Karen Carpenter recorded before she passed away in February of 1983 from complications of anorexia nervosa. And did you know she recorded this song in just one take? Incredible, right? This song was released months after her passing on their 11th studio album, Voice of the Heart.
Karen Carpenter unfortunately didn't have a lot of luck in love. She did marry in 1980, but it didn't work out and they separated two years later. It has been mentioned that one of her favorite songs of all time to perform was "I Need to Be in Love," This song really captures the sadness of not having found love yet and wanting it to happen so badly. I consider this song to be one of my anthems. Anyone else feel the same way?
When I discovered "Now," I realized it's the happy ending to "I Need to Be in Love." It captures all the good vibes one would want in a relationship: warm and cozy, protected and safe, loved and cherished. I believe it's what Karen always wanted, and I have affectionately called it my, "Manifestation song." What I've learned about manifestation is I have to declare what I want as if it's happening right now, so without using phrases like "I hope it will happen" and "I would like to have..." Saying, "I'm grateful for my wonderful relationship" and including all the feelings I want is the power that will make my manifestations come true. I definitely encourage all you single people out there to give this a try!
I'm going to continue with #MusicMondays and include several more covers of songs from The Carpenters. These songs have been monumental in my life ever since I discovered their music while volunteering at the library when I was 19 years old, which also happens to be the same age of Karen when she and Richard got started with their music career. I consider Karen to be one of my voice teachers as I am forever inspired by her amazing voice and the depth of emotion she puts into each song. Thanks to Karen, I have also realized I'm not just a soprano, but can sing the low notes too! These songs give me all the feels and I believe I have a special soul connection with Karen. I hope she knows how much I admire her spirit and her voice of gold.
Feel free to comment below if you're also a fan of The Carpenters and Karen's voice.
Shine on, friends!
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